Yohimbe is a medicinal treatment extracted from the bark of an evergreen tree called Pausinystalia yohimbe. Yohimbe bark extract has gained popularity as a natural treatment for impotence in men and sexual dysfunction in women. However, this purported health benefit has not been clinically evaluated. In addition, the safety of this herbal treatment hasn't been examined by the FDA. Before using yohimbe bark extract, talk with your medical provider.
General Safety Information
Common side effects associated with yohimbe bark extract include upset stomach, headache, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, mood changes, bloating and an increased heart rate. Taking high doses of this herbal treatment may cause more severe and potentially life-threatening side effects, such as very low blood pressure, paralysis and difficulty breathing. Yohimbe bark extract shouldn't be used by children or people who have diabetes, anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, prostate issues, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder, or liver, kidney or heart disease. Additionally, the safety of using this herbal treatment during pregnancy or lactation is unknown. Thus, women who are pregnant or breast-feeding shouldn't take yohimbe bark extract. If you have any of these health problems or experience persistent side effects while taking yohimbe bark extract, contact your doctor as soon as possible for further guidance.
Medication Interactions
If you're using certain medications, treatment with yohimbe bark extract may not be advised. This herbal treatment shouldn't be used with depression medications, such as tricyclic antidepressants and MAOIs. Combining such treatments may increase your risk of experiencing side effects or heart-related problems. Yohimbe bark extract may also reduce the effectiveness of medications indicated for high blood pressure, such as hydrochlorothiazide, diltiazem and furosemide, or other drugs, including guanabenz and clonidine. Other medications to avoid while taking this herbal supplement include phenothiazines, naloxone, and stimulants such as pseudoephedrine.
Supplement Interactions
Avoid taking yohimbe bark with supplements that contain caffeine, including guarana and mate, or ephedra. These supplements may raise your blood pressure to dangerously high levels when used with yohimbe bark extract.
Food Interactions
While taking yohimbe bark extract, avoid consuming foods that contain tyramine, such as red wine, fermented meat and aged cheese. Other foods to avoid while using this herbal supplement include coffee, chocolate, soda and tea because these food items can narrow your blood vessels. Eating these foods with yohimbe bark extract may increase your risk of developing high blood pressure.
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