Yohimbe & Tingling Spine

Pausinystalia yohimbe is a large, African evergreen tree. Its bark has been used as an aphrodesiac for centuries. The bark is rich in alkaloids, many of which are pharmacologically active. Amongst them, yohimbine is the most potent, and has been used as a pharmaceutical treatment for erectile dysfunction since 1938. Although yohimbine has largely been replaced by safer and more effective medicines, extracts of the yohimbe plant remain popular as a treatment for impotence. Consult with a doctor before using any supplement containing yohimbe.

Active Constituents

Although yohimbine is yohimbe's most pharmacologically active constituent, several of the other alkaloids present in the plant likely contribute to its effects. Ajmaline may act as a sedative and tranquilizer in small doses, as may corynantheine and dihydrocorynantheine. Paradoxically, yohimbine can act as both a sedative and a psychostimulant simultaneously. These stimulating properties alongside yohimbe's efficacy in treating sexual dysfunction have led many to mistakenly assume that yohimbe increases testosterone levels.

Effect on Genital Tissue

The alkaloid yohimbine is a presynaptic alpha-2-adrenoreceptor antagonist. Since the erection of genital tissue is correlated to an increase in parasympathetic activity and a reduction in sympathetic nervous system activity, this is believed to be the mechanism by which yohimbe treats erectile dysfunction. Additionally, yohimbine can act as a calcium channel blocker, further increasing its efficacy by displacing blood into cavernous body tissues. Yohimbine may also interact with nitric oxide levels, although its pharmacodynamics are totally unlike that of the popular impotence drug sildenafil.

Effects on Sacral Nerves

The alkaloid yohimbine, through its increase in the release of noradrenaline, has the potential to increase genital sensitivity. It localized adrenergic agonist activity in the sacral region can cause an increase in reflex excitability, decreasing the time needed for orgasm. This sacral area nerve stimulation can also cause sensations of tingling, cold, or pins and needles along the spine. This is also the most likely pharmacological origin of the increased intensity of orgasm caused by yohimbe alkaloids.

Side-Effects

Yohimbe should not be combined with bupropion, methamphetamine, or other strong chemical stimulants; the combination can cause high blood pressure, anxiety, elevated heart rate, and potentially heart failure according to Sloan-Kettering and the National Institute of Health. Women that are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take yohimbe, nor should patients with high blood pressure or kidney disease. Supplements containing yohimbe may cause headache, anxiety, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, tremors and sleeplessness.