How To Prevent Cramps With Yohimbe

Yohimbe is a tree found in West Africa. The bark of the yohimbe tree is used as an herbal remedy for various conditions, most notably sexual dysfunction. According to eMedTV, studies have suggested that yohimbine, a drug made from the active component of the tree bark, is effective in treating erectile dysfunction in men. Although no clinical studies suggest that the yohimbe tree bark is effective in treating any condition, yohimbe is believed to have a number of other benefits, including treating painful menstrual cramps. The bark is thought to relax uterine and other muscles to prevent cramps.

Step 1

Consult with your medical provider before adding yohimbe to your diet. Yohimbe has a number of potential adverse side effects and interactions with medications. The Food and Drug Administration placed yohimbe on the unsafe herb list in 1997.

Step 2

Purchase yohimbe bark at a health food store. Yohimbe comes in various forms, including powder, capsules and liquid extract. Follow the recommended dose on your package of yohimbe to prevent cramps.

Step 3

Drink yohimbe as tea. Take 2 tsp. of dried yohimbe bark and mix with boiling water. For cramps, many herbalists recommend drinking yohimbe bark as a tea. Drink the tea three times a day to prevent cramps.

Step 4

Begin with the lowest recommended dose of yohimbe. Because of the adverse side effects, start out at a low dose and slowly increase as necessary.

Step 5

Record any side effects that you experience and discontinue use. Some serious side effects include abdominal pain, high blood pressure, anxiety, irregular heartbeat, kidney failure and paralysis. Other side effects include nausea, fatigue, headaches and frequent urination.