There are a variety of herbal compounds that are touted to have a variety of different benefits. Yohimbe is used as a "natural" aphrodisiac and is also included in some weight loss supplements. Although yohimbe is a herbal product that can be purchased without a prescription, it can cause many health problems. Do not take yohimbe without first talking to your doctor.
What Is Yohimbe?
The yohimbe tree is a tall evergreen typically found in western Africa. Yohimbe products are made using the bark of this tree, which contains a substance known as yohimbine. Extracts from this bark can be put into capsules or tablets. Yohimbine is thought to increase blood flow to parts of the body and is often used as a treatment for erectile dysfunction, though many weight loss products also contain yohimbine. It is not known how effective yohimbe products are for treating any condition.
Side Effects
Yohimbe can cause a variety of side effects when taken at the doses normally found in supplements. Common side effects include an upset stomach, tremors, anxiety, excitation, stomach problems, drooling, sinus pain, high blood pressure, a rapid heartbeat, rash, nausea, increased urination, headache, irritability, difficulty sleeping, vomiting and stomach pain. High doses can also cause impaired breathing, low blood pressure, paralysis and heart problems. In some cases these side effects of yohimbe are fatal, so products with this compound should be taken with extreme caution.
Special Cases
If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, yohimbe products are likely unsafe. They can affect your uterus, put your pregnancy at risk and poison your child. Yohimbe should also be used with caution if you have schizophrenia, depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder, as it can exacerbate these conditions. Yohimbe should not be used if you have benign prostatic hyperplasia, liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease or problems with unusually high or unusually low blood pressure.
Drug Interactions
Yohimbe fat burning products also interact with some medications. Yohimbe should not be combined with medications for high blood pressure because it can either counteract these medications or increase their effects, depending on the dose used. Don't take yohimbe if you are taking tricyclic antidepressants, naloxone, stimulant medications or phenothiazines. Talk to your doctor before taking yohimbe to make sure that these supplements will not negatively affect any health problems or interact with medications you are taking.
Member Comments