Turnera diffusa, commonly referred to as damiana, is a wild shrub that is native to Central and South America. The leaf of the damiana shrub has a long history of use in Mexico for a variety of health-promoting purposes. Damiana is sold in North America as a supplement in capsule, powder, tea, extract and tincture form.
Aphrodisiac
Perhaps the most common use for damiana is as an aphrodisiac and for the treatment of sexual and hormonal disturbances. The exact mechanism of action of damiana is unknown, but the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center states that the side effects may be because the herb contains two compounds that affect the levels of the hormones testosterone and estrogen in your body. Due to its effect on hormones, the herb may help to alleviate menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes. In addition, Phyllis Balch states in her book, "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" that damiana enhances oxygen delivery to the genital area, and has been traditionally used to increase libido and enhance sexual performance in both sexes.
Diabetes and Nervous System Health
Damiana has a hypoglycemic effect in the body, meaning that it helps to lower blood sugar levels. Because of this, damiana may be a useful diabetic aid. In addition, damiana stimulates the central nervous system and is used to treat depression, reduce anxiety, boost mental clarity, and treat nervous dyspepsia, a type of indigestion brought on by nerves.
Additional Purported Benefits
According to "Nursing Herbal Medicine Handbook," damiana stimulates muscular contractions of the intestinal tract and is used in traditional medicine as a diuretic and laxative, to treat constipation and to control bed-wetting. Damiana is also used to treat kidney disorders and venereal disease, to promote weight loss and to increase energy and physical stamina. Finally, damiana can be boiled and its steam inhaled to help relieve headaches. These uses are largely based on anecdotal evidence and not scientific research however.
Dosage and Precautions
The typical dose of damiana is 2 to 4 g of dried leaf in capsule form, three times daily. Alternatively, you can make a tea by boiling 2 to 4 g of the dried herb in 5 oz. of water and drinking the tea three times daily. For the best results, choose a damiana supplement that is labeled "standardized extract of pure damiana." Possible side effects include headaches, insomnia, hallucinations and liver damage. Damiana may also interfere with diabetic drugs and iron absorption. For safety purposes, you should talk to your health-care practitioner before supplementing with damiana.
References
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Damiania
- "Nursing Herbal Medicine Handbook;" Lippincott Williams and Wilkins; 2005
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch; 2003
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