Yohimbe, a tall evergreen tree, grows in western Africa. Marketers of this product claim that this chemical has therapeutic qualities in the treatment of erectile dysfunction, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, reports. Yohimbe produces a chemical from the bark of this tree that herbalists use to treat male problems. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration has not approved yohimbe for medical use. Before trying any herbal-type supplement, talk to your physician. Side effects may occur if you use yohimbe.
Treating Erectile Dysfunction
Herbalists may recommend using the yohimbe supplement as a means of overcoming erectile dysfunction, or ED, in men. Drugs.com notes that yohimbe may affect the blood flow into your penis, producing more blood flow to cause an erection. It also helps stop the out-flow of blood from the penis, allowing you to maintain your erection. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that yohimbe contains the same chemical, yohimbine hydrochloride, used in medicine prescribed by doctors for ED. The NCCAM states that African men traditionally have used yohimbe as an aphrodisiac, meaning it helps them to raise the levels of their desire for sex.
Skin Flushing
Skin flushing, a non-serious side effect of yohimbe, may happen as your body works to become acclimated to this supplement, Drugs.com reports. Your face may become pink as you experience an erection from this product. Flushing also may produce a sensation of warmth and may cause sweating. If you become uncomfortable and the facial flushing continues, call your doctor.
Dizziness
You should take precaution in changing body positions when taking this herbal treatment for ED to prevent dizziness, Drugs.com indicates. You may feel light-headed when moving quickly out of a chair, for example. Taking your time in the change of positions from sitting to standing will help. If this side effect continues, call your practitioner for assistance.
Headaches
Headaches may happen as non-serious side effects of taking yohimbe, Drugs.com states. The headaches should dissipate with continued use of this product. Call your practitioner if you continue to experience headaches as they may be a sign of another health problem.
Irritability and Nervousness
You may become irritable when taking this new herbal supplement, Drugs.com reports. You may lack patience for others or become annoyed easily. Your tolerance may be less for everyday tasks as you attempt to perform them. Nervousness also could happen as a result of a less-than-serious side effect of yohimbe, Drugs.com indicates. You may feel panicky about normal, everyday occurrences. Both of these non-serious side effects should end on their own.
