Damiana, typically referred to as Mexican damiana and old woman's broom, is a herbal supplement commonly used to treat headaches, help in controlling bed wetting, as an aphrodisiac and in weight loss. Because damiana has not been evaluated by the FDA, very little is known about the herb, nor are their standards in place for its manufacture. Because of this, a health care provider with knowledge of herbal medicine should be contact before the herb is used.
Damiana and Allergic Reaction
Damiana has been found to cause symptoms associated with an allergy reaction. Symptoms may include but are not limited to the closing of the airway, difficulty breathing, lips, tongue and facial swelling and hives.
Damiana and Weight Loss
The leaves of the damiana plant, when ingested, can create loose stools. This side effect of the herb is one of the reasons that it is becoming more and more widely used as a laxative and for dietary needs.
Serious Side Effects
Although so very little is known about the side effects of damiana on the human body, there was at least one report of seizure-like symptoms. These symptoms occurred with a high dosage of the herb, so it is not known whether lower doses could result in the same symptoms.
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