Uses of Damiana Leaf

The recorded use of damiana leaf dates back to the ancient Mayan Indians of Mexico and Central America, who called this herb mizibcoc. It is a short, flowering shrub that bears little yellow flowers. Damiana's aromatic leaves contain a number of medicinal chemical compounds and are used for a number of therapeutic purposes.

Low Libido

For centuries, damiana has been used as an aphrodisiac by the Mayans. Folk healers prescribe it as an herbal remedy for low libido in both women and men. It is considered to be especially beneficial anxiety, stress or depression are affecting sexual arousal. Today, damiana is gaining in popularity as a natural aphrodisiac, particularly among Americans over the age of 40, who often suffer from a loss of libido resulting from the onset of female and male menopause. Damiana is also taken simply to enhance sexual pleasure.

Female Menopause

Folk healers prescribe damiana to alleviate hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and other symptoms of female menopause. It works by regulating hormonal levels in the body, which tend to fluctuate in pre-menopausal and menopausal women. This herb also helps alleviate painful menstruation and menstrual headaches.

Erectile Dysfunction

Damiana is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), a male sexual condition that is characterized by an inability to have a full or partial erection. Citing a 2009 clinical research study by the National Institute of Psychiatry in Mexico, the National Institutes of Health reports that the study's results support the herb's traditional use as an aphrodisiac (see Reference 3). The results also point to its possible therapeutic properties in the treatment of male sexual dysfunction.

Pulmonary Conditions

Damiana is used in the treatment of pulmonary conditions such as bronchitis and asthma. The Mayans called it mizibcoc, which translates as "plant for asthma." Mexican folk healers also use it treat colds, coughs, congestion and the flu.

Nervine Tonic

Damiana is a nervine herb that has traditionally been used as a tonic for the central nervous system. It acts therapeutically on the nervous system, strengthening and rejuvenating it. Damiana also has mood-enhancing properties that are beneficial in the treatment of mild depression. The Mayans smoked dried damiana leaf for relaxation.

Food Additive

Damiana is a traditional ingredient in some Mexican liquors. It is also drunk as a substitute for tea. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has designated damiana as a "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) food additive.