Yohimbe is an evergreen tree found in the forests of parts of Africa. The bark is used for traditional medicinal purposes and is most commonly used in herbal remedies for treating erectile dysfunction but sometimes also depression. Yohimbe is available in the form of standardized extract capsules or tablets and as tinctures. The herbal supplement has several serious potential side effects that can endanger the health of people with certain medical conditions or who are taking certain medications.
Blood Pressure Dangers
Taking a standard amount of yohimbe, typically 15mg to 30mg, can cause elevated blood pressure, heart palpitations and rapid heart beat, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Severe high blood pressure or hypertension may occur if you take yohimbe with high amounts of tyramine, which is found in red wine, cheeses and liver. Interestingly, taking high doses of yohimbe, typically more than 40mg per day, can cause severe blood pressure drops, notes the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Due to these potentially dangerous effects on blood pressure in both standard and high doses, don't take yohimbe if you have high blood pressure, are pregnant or nursing or have liver or kidney disease.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
You may experience stomach pain and nausea while taking yohimbe. These, along with dizziness, are common side effects of taking standard doses of yohimbe, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. If you have peptic ulcers or other gastrointestinal conditions, don't take yohimbe before consulting your physician.
Neurological Dangers
Taking normal doses of yohimbe may cause insomnia, hyperstimulation and anxiety. If you take more than 40mg of yohimbe, you may experience neurological symptoms like vertigo and even hallucinations, according to the University of Michigan Health System. High doses of yohimbe may also cause fatigue and paralysis, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. If you have anxiety, panic disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder, you shouldn't take yohimbe because it can make your condition worse.
Prescription Drug Interactions
If you take certain prescription drugs, avoid taking yohimbe. Yohimbe can have negative interactions with tricyclic antidepressant medications, blood pressure-lowering drugs, bupropion, methamphetamine and other medications that stimulate the central nervous system, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
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