Damiana

Turnera diffusa, referred to as damiana, is a shrub native to southern texas in the united states, central america, mexico, south america, and the caribbean. It comes from the family passifloraceae.

Damiana is a fairly small, woody shrub that produces little, fragrant flowers. It blossoms in early to late summer and is followed by fruits that taste comparable to figs. The shrub is stated to have a strong spice-like smell somewhat like chamomile, due to the important oils present in the plant.

Phytochemistry

Damiana consists of damianin; tetraphyllin b; gonzalitosin i; arbutin; tricosan-2-one; acacetin; p-cymene; β-sitosterol; 1,8-cineole; apigenin; α-pinene; β-carotene; β-pinene; tannins; thymol; and hexacosanol. In total, 22 flavonoids, maltol glucoside, phenolics, seven cyanogenic glycosides, monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, triterpenoids, the polyterpene ficaprenol-11, fats, and caffeine have been found in the genus turnera. Since 2006, damiana’s constituents have not been identified for their results credited to the whole herb. Damiana’s anxiolytic residential or commercial properties might be due to apigenin. The extract from damiana has actually been found to reduce aromatase activity, including the separated compounds pinocembrin and acacetin. (1 )

Introduction

Damiana is a wild shrub that grows in mexico, main america, and the west indies. The leaf and stem are used to make medication. Historically, it was used mainly to increase libido (as an aphrodisiac).

Damiana is utilized to treat headache, bedwetting, anxiety, nervous stomach, and irregularity; for prevention and treatment of sexual problems; increasing and maintaining psychological and physical endurance; and as an aphrodisiac.

Some individuals breathe in damiana for a small “high.” (2 ).

Description

Damiana, of the turneraceae plant family, is a fragrant shrub with little yellow flowers that grows on dry, bright, rocky hillsides in south texas, southern california, mexico, and central america. The two species used in natural healing, both of which are referred to as damiana, are turnera aphrodisiaca and turnera diffusa. Damiana normally grows to a height of about 24 in (60 cm). Its pale green leaves, which turn yellow-brown when dried, are 0.5– 1 in (15– 25 mm) long and quite narrow. They have serrated (jagged) edges. The leaves and sometimes the stems of the plant have medicinal uses. Other names for damiana include old woman’s broom, mexican damiana, pastorata, hierba del venado, oreganello, and the bourrique. (3 ).

History

This fragrant shrub belongs to the family passifloraceae and can grow up to 2 metres in height. Damiana is prevalent in arid regions in central and south america along with in some parts of africa. In mexico in particular it is collected and exported in great quantities.

In the 17th century the plant was first therefore described by the spanish missionary juan maria de salvatierra: the native individuals of mexico would utilize the leaves to make a watery extract which, sweetened with sugar, would be imbibed as a love potion. De salvatierra called the hitherto unknown plant “damiana”, after st damian, the tutelary saint of drug store.

The use of damiana extracts to deal with coughs and other respiratory disorders has actually been given from spanish colonial times. The maya peoples smoked dried damiana leaves for relaxation and lung cleaning, their word for it literally meaning “asthma broom”. It was also utilized to treat diabetes, malaria, menstrual conditions and swellings of the urogenital tract.

In north america, tinctures based on damiana were sold as popular tonics into the 19th century. The damiana-containing product the mormon older’s wafers was even valued as a cure-all for sleeping disorders, lameness, nightmares and impotence. (4 ).

How it works?

A lot of research has actually been done on the unstable oil of damiana, which includes various little, fragrant compounds called terpenes. Yet, it is uncertain if the unstable oil is really the primary active constituent of damiana. Damiana extracts have been revealed, in a test tube, to weakly bind to progesterone receptors. Therefore, damiana may be a possibly helpful herb for some female illness. However, no human research studies have actually investigated this possibility and it is not a primary standard use. (5 ).

Benefits of damiana

Damiana (turnera diffusa, turnera aphrodisiaca) is a wild shrub. It is native to texas, mexico, south and main america, and the caribbean.

The dried leaves are believed to have an aphrodisiac result for both males and females. This suggests they are utilized to enhance sexual function. Damiana is likewise offered as a cravings suppressant.

In natural medicine, damiana is used to deal with medical conditions, consisting of:.

• Asthma
• Stress and anxiety
• Anxiety
• Headache
• Irregularity
• Menstrual conditions

There is no strong proof to support these usages.

This post takes a look at the herb damiana and the proof for its use.

Damiana has been used in herbal remedies for centuries. Still, few studies have actually looked at this plant’s effectiveness.

Much of the research study that does exist is limited to animal and laboratory research studies. The results of these research studies can not be reliably applied to humans.

Improved sexual function

Damiana is commonly promoted as a sexual stimulant and aphrodisiac. There is little scientific assistance for this.

A 2009 study discovered that damiana helped sexully tired male rats have a second ejaculation. According to the study authors, the results support its use as an aphrodisiac.

The authors suggested that flavonoids in the plant might trigger this effect.these are antioxidant-rich substances discovered in some fruits and vegetables.

Other research study recommends damiana may also improve female sexual enjoyment.

2 studies investigated the supplement arginmax for females. This is an exclusive blend of:.

• Ginseng
• Ginkgo
• Damiana
• L-arginine
• Multivitamins
• Minerals

The first study consisted of 77 females. Individuals took either arginmax or a placebo for 4 weeks. At the end of the study, 73% of those who took arginmax reported:.

• An increase in libido
• A decrease of vaginal dryness
• A greater frequency of sexual relations and orgasm
• Enhanced clitoral feeling

This is compared to 37% of the placebo group.

The 2nd study analyzed arginmax in females in numerous stages of life, consisting of:.

• Premenopause
• Perimenopause
• Postmenopause

All groups reported higher levels of sexual desire and complete satisfaction. Scientists also noted that improvements in the postmenopausal group were substantial.

The supplement likewise did not impact estrogen levels. Research study authors recommended the supplement might be a better option than hormone-replacement therapy for older women who wish to increase their sex drive.

Especially, scientists in both studies might not state whether damiana alone can enhance sexual function. It is possible it may work only in mix with other herbs.

Recap

A couple of studies have actually found some proof for damiania’s usage in enhancing sexual function. More evidence is required before it can be suggested for this usage.

Appetite suppressant

Damiana has also been studied as a weight-loss tool.

In a 2013 study, ladies were offered a natural formula 15 minutes before meals. This formula included:.

• Damiana
• Yerba maté
• Guarana

Some participants also took an inulin based soluble fermentable fiber. This type of fiber dissolves in water. It is found in the roots of many food plants.

Topics who took this formula consumed much less food by volume and calories than to those who took the placebo.

Topics who took the herbs however not the fiber also ate fewer calories. According to the research study authors, the supplement produced a robust, short-term decline in cravings.

An earlier research study found that this natural formula postponed stomach emptying by an additional 20 minutes. This indicates it took longer for food to leave the stomachs of those who took the formula.

It also decreased the time it took individuals to feel complete.

Topics took the supplement daily prior to their main meal for 45 days. At the end of the time period, they ‘d lost approximately 11 pounds more than those taking a placebo.

Those who kept taking the supplement for a year preserved their weight-loss.

This research study shows pledge. Still, the study authors could not say if damiana reduces cravings on its own. More research is required before it can be advised as a weight reduction help.

Recap

Some studies have likewise found proof that an organic formula including damiana can assist reduce appetite. More research study is needed. (6 ).

Benefits for male and female

Male sexual health

Specifically indicated for alleviating issues of attaining and preserving erections, damiana also works to relieve stress and stress and anxiety related to fears of inadequate sexual performance. Research studies have actually revealed that taking in the plant works to decrease the digestion system and instead rushes oxygen to genital areas. This assists males to achieve erection a lot more easily and keep it for longer periods of time. Yet another study declares that use of damiana leads to greater level of sensitivity in the erogenous zones, especially the genital areas, which in turn may help men to experience greater sexual enjoyment.

Female sexual health

Damiana had actually long been thought of as a specifically male aphrodisiac, up until household and integrated medical practitioner cynthia watson published her book, “love potions, a guide to aphrodisiacs and sexual pleasures”. In it, she provided proof indicating that androgens such as testosterone might be efficient for promoting so-called “frigid” ladies, a characteristic some scientists think might be triggered by an androgen shortage. Watson likewise said she saw a renewed interest in sex amongst women who utilized damiana. In additions she composed, “it is also reported to cause sensual dreams when drunk at bedtime. I can also tell you that damiana makes my dreams at least a little uncommon, with qualities deserving of an abstract walt disney production”.

Antidepressant

One of the active constituents of this herb is thymol, and it is this compound that is accountable for damiana’s life enhancing and revitalizing effect on the body and mind. Many herbalists recommend damiana for moderate to moderate anxiety, anxiety and nervous exhaustion. Its stimulating and corrective properties make it an important herb for anxiety and anxiety occurring together– as can often take place as a result of long term tension.

Gastrointestinal health

This flexible herb will promote digestion health by facilitating the breakdown of fats and sugars in the gastrointestinal system. This mechanism is helpful as it increases the body’s nutrient absorption rate, hence guaranteeing the body gets the most nutrients found in the food we consume.

Damiana likewise encourages the cleansing of the gastrointestinal system, requiring the body to remove hazardous chemicals and toxic substances that would usually impede the food digestion process. This natural herb can also be used to treat dyspepsia or impaired food digestion as it actively slows down the digestion procedure. (7 ).

Further more

Might assist combat prevent and diabetes

Some research study has actually shown that a combination of damiana, guarana and yerba mate may help people who are obese or overweight to reach a healthier weight. These herbs are capable of enhancing energy levels, which supports exercise, minimizing stress-related eating, assisting with hormone balance, and potentially lowering cravings or yearnings.

According to a study released in the journal of enthopharamacology referenced above, not just does damiana have anti-obesity results, however it likewise has antidiabetic, antioxidant, adapatogenic, antispasmodic and gastroprotective activities that may help reduce the threat for many chronic illness. In specific animal research studies, t. Diffusa has been shown to have antioxidant homes that might prevent kidney damage and diabetes induced by mitochondrial oxidative tension.

May battle infections

A range of types of turnera plantsare commonly utilized in folk medicine for treating different kinds of inflammatory diseases and infections. Today, research study tells us that plants in the turneraceae family can act as a source of plant-derived natural compounds that have antibiotic resistance-modifying activity.

Damiana has actually been shown to function as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, expectorant (it assists to open up the respiratory tracts and stop coughs) and immunomodulator. There’s evidence that t. Diffusa can be used to deal with otitis (ear aches/ear infections) and nephritis (swelling of the kidneys).

Pinocembrin is among the main flavonoids separated from damiana leaf. Pinocembrin activities have been well-researched and consist of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer activities. For centuries, plants containing pinocembrain and flavanoids (both discovered in damiana) have actually been used to eliminate bacterial infections of the breathing, reproductive and digestion systems– consisting of those brought on by bacterial strains such as gonorrhoeae, e. Coli, p. Aeruginosa, b. Subtilis, s. Aureus, s. Lentus and k. Pneumoniae.

Can assist lower discomfort (headaches, stomach aches, pms, etc)

Females who struggle with serious pms signs, such as cramps and mood swings, might take advantage of using damiana leaf throughout their menstrual cycles. Damiana may likewise help alleviate headaches, muscle aches and stomach pains. Considering that it has relaxant and digestion stimulating effects, a historic use of damiana was drinking it to assist launch the muscles in the gi system in order to decrease constipation, bloating and stomach pain. (8 ).

How to make damiana tea?

Procedure 1 or 2 loading teaspoons of dried damiana leaves, and position them into a clean coffee mug or other heat proof drinking container.

Boil one cup of water in little saucepan or tea kettle on the stove top. Eliminate from heat and put the boiling water into the mug, over the dried damiana leaves.

Permit the damiana tea high for 15-20 minutes. Strain the tea into a tidy coffee mug, or into another heat proof drinking container. Discard the spent damiana leaves in the compost pile or garbage can.

Add a teaspoon of pure, raw honey to sweeten the damiana tea, if preferred, but do not use granulated or refined sugar, as this can damage the advantageous homes of the tea.

Garnish the damiana tea with a lemon wedge for additional flavor, if desired, and drink right away. Optionally, you can include 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice.

Idea

Include other enjoyable tasting herbs such as mint or lemon balm to your damiana tea if you discover the flavor too strong.

Caution

Do not take damiana tea if you are diabetic. It can trigger the blood sugar level to spike, leading to hazardous negative effects. Prevent damiana tea if you are pregnant. Although there is no proof that it can trigger damage, the effects on the fetus are unidentified, and it is constantly much better to be safe than sorry. (9 ).

Damiana tea benefits

The most notable health benefits of damiana tea might include its results on fertility, libido, digestive health and energy levels, to name a few. The flavonoids discovered in this tea have the ability to offer your body a significant boost, and these stimulant qualities are also known to assist increase libido and overcome frigidity. The effects that the tea can have on the hormonal agents is indisputable, and not just can it assist to enhance fertility, however can likewise control menstruation and prevent much of the typical symptoms of that regular monthly cycle. (10 ).

Negative effects of damiana

Get emergency medical assistance if you have indications of an allergy: hives; problem breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using damiana and call your healthcare provider simultaneously if you have:.

• A seizure (convulsions);
• Difficulty breathing;
• Fever, nausea, throwing up;
• Changes in your psychological status (agitation, worry, concern, confusion, hallucinations);
• Trouble swallowing, extreme saliva, drooling;
• Loss of movement in any part of your body; or
• Agonizing muscle spasms or unrestrained muscle motion.

This is not a total list of negative effects and others might happen. Call your medical professional for medical guidance about negative effects. (11 ).

How to take damiana tea?

Damiana can be taken as a tea up to 3 times a day. Prepare around 1 teaspoon (6-12 g) of damiana dried leaves in a mug of boiling water, leave to brew for 10 minutes prior to drinking. You can also take it in pill or liquid extract kind. The appropriate dose can depend upon several factors such as age, body composition and presence of any other conditions. As with a lot of organic solutions, it is best to deal with a functional physician or naturopath to assist you determine which is finest for your needs. (12 ).

Dosage

Nowadays, you can find dried damiana leaves in tea bags and pills. It’s likewise offered in tinctures, both alcoholic and alcohol-free. Smoking and breathing in damiana leaves is possible however not recommended.

Pregnant and nursing mothers ought to not take in damiana, nor must individuals with liver issues. In high dosages, damiana is said to trigger hallucinations. If you experience hallucinations while taking damiana, keep calm and get medical assistance as quickly as possible.

Check out the label on your damiana preparation for dose instructions. A general guide is to take 2 to 4 grams or less of dried damiana in tea or pill type with meals, three times a day. Private experiences will vary, however hallucinations have actually been reported at dosages of 200 g.

Damiana has been sold as a component called “spice,” present in some herbal mixes that simulate the effects of marijuana. States differ on the legality these blends, however damiana is legal everywhere in the united states except louisiana. (13 ).

Interaction

Do not take damiana without medical guidance if you are utilizing any of the following medications:.

Insulin or oral diabetes medicine.

This list is not total. Other drugs may communicate with damiana, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal items. Not all possible interactions are listed in this product guide. (14 ).

Preventative measure

Scientific literature and research study claim that damiana and its leaves are one of the best supplements for boosting sexual efficiency.

There are nearly no or minimal negative effects reported against damiana. There are also no proven drug interactions with this herb.

In case of an overdose, you may pass loose stools because of the herb’s laxative effect.

Caution!

If you are pregnant or preparation on conception, keep away from damiana since it is a powerful emmenagogue. Damiana can cause menstruation in women.

It may lead to abortion or a stillborn if you did not refrain from the supplements. Please consult your doctor about taking this herbal medication in any case. (15 ).

Conclusions

Examination of the cytotoxic residential or commercial properties of t. Diffusa revealed substantial results for different apolar extracts versus the myeloma cell lines mm1s, u266 and nci-h929. Organized examination of the active extracts by uhplc led to the decrease of the complex metabolite to a variety of possible prospects, which were subsequently isolated. Of these substances, naringenin and apigenin 7-o-( 4 ″- o-p-e-coumaroyl)- glucoside were identified as 2 elements responsible for the observed activity. The cytotoxicity of naringenin is in line with previous findings, if however, observed for other cell lines.up to the best of our knowledge, substance 4 is described as cytotoxic for the very first time. Nonetheless, its aglycone apigenin has been discovered active versus cancer cell lines in the past. Surprisingly, only one of the two tested apigenin coumaroyl glucosides (substances 3 and 4) showed activity in the conducted assays, indicating steric effects to play a pivotal function for the cytotoxicity of these compounds.

Moreover, today research study explains the first confirmed uhplc-dad approach for the quantification of phenolic constituents in t. Diffusa. The established assay permits the quantitation of 8 flavonoids in both, the herb and the traditional preparation of t. Diffusa, and coupled to mass spectrometry gives info on the abundance of another 5 flavonoids occurring in hydroethanolic damiana extracts. (16 ).

Recommendations

1. Https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/turnera_diffusa
2. Https://www.rxlist.com/damiana/supplements.htm
3. Https://www.encyclopedia.com/places/africa/mauritius-and-runion-political-geography/damiana
4. Https://www.ewaliashop.com/ewalia-magic-tips/damiana
5. Https://www.peacehealth.org/medical-topics/id/hn-2077004#hn-2077004-how-it-works
6. Https://www.verywellhealth.com/damiana-what-should-i-know-about-it-89557
7. Https://www.indigo-herbs.co.uk/natural-health-guide/benefits/damiana
8. Https://draxe.com/nutrition/damiana
9. Https://www.leaf.tv/articles/how-to-make-damiana-tea/
10. Https://www.organicfacts.net/damiana-tea.html
11. Https://www.drugs.com/mtm/damiana.html
12. Https://www.mariongluckclinic.com/blog/in-bed-with-damiana.html
13. Https://www.healthline.com/health/damiana-ancient-aphrodisiac#dosage
14. Https://www.emedicinehealth.com/drug-damiana/article_em.htm
15. Https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/damiana-leaf/
16. Https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc6429218/