Yohimbe bark is widely used as a folk treatment for various health maladies, typically related to sexual disorders, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM). Yohimbine is its active ingredient. Since there is no standardized level of yohimbine in yohimbe bark supplements, and because everyone's tolerance levels vary, what constitutes an overdose for you may be different from what someone else experiences. For such reasons, the Mayo Clinic warns to only take yohimbe under the close supervision of your physician.
Cardiovascular Risks
Yohimbe may cause high blood pressure, according to the NCCAM, and may also boost your heart rate. This makes it dangerous for those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, as well as those who are already taking blood pressure-modifying medications.
Mental Distress
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) report that yohimbe may provoke various forms of mental distress, including manic episodes, anxiety and insomnia. The NIH say the risk of such distress is higher if you already have a history of mental illness. The University of California at San Diego specifically cites a higher risk among those with panic disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder.
General Body Effects
Taking 40mg of yohimbe on a daily basis may cause full-body side effects that may include a sense of vertigo, loss of muscle function and general chills, according to the University of California at San Diego.
Urinary Tract Problems
General pain in the genital area may arise when taking yohimbe products, warns the NIH. This may include pains experienced during the process of urinating. Related gastrointestinal discomfort may include nausea and vomiting.
Hallucinations
You may find yourself hallucinating if you take 40mg or more of yohimbe extracts, reports the University of California at San Diego.
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