Table of Contents
Turnera diffusa, called damiana, is a shrub belonging to southern texas in the united states, main america, mexico, south america, and the caribbean. It belongs to the family passifloraceae.
Damiana is a relatively little, woody shrub that produces little, fragrant flowers. It blooms in early to late summer and is followed by fruits that taste comparable to figs. The shrub is said to have a strong spice-like odor somewhat like chamomile, due to the vital 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, 7 cyanogenic glycosides, monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, triterpenoids, the polyterpene ficaprenol-11, fats, and caffeine have been found in the genus turnera. As of 2006, damiana’s constituents have not been recognized for their effects credited to the entire 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 isolated substances pinocembrin and acacetin. (1 )
Overview
Damiana is a wild shrub that grows in mexico, main america, and the west indies. The leaf and stem are utilized to make medication. Historically, it was utilized primarily to increase libido (as an aphrodisiac).
Damiana is used to treat headache, bedwetting, depression, nervous stomach, and constipation; for prevention and treatment of sexual issues; enhancing and maintaining psychological and physical stamina; and as an aphrodisiac.
Some individuals inhale damiana for a small “high.” (2 ).
Description
Damiana, of the turneraceae plant family, is a fragrant shrub with small yellow flowers that grows on dry, bright, rocky hillsides in south texas, southern california, mexico, and main america. The two types utilized in organic healing, both of which are described as damiana, are turnera aphrodisiaca and turnera diffusa. Damiana usually 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 rather narrow. They have actually serrated (jagged) edges. The leaves and in some cases the stems of the plant have medical usages. Other names for damiana consist of old woman’s broom, mexican damiana, pastorata, hierba del venado, oreganello, and the bourrique. (3 ).
History
This aromatic shrub belongs to the household passifloraceae and can grow up to 2 metres in height. Damiana prevails in arid regions in main and south america in addition to in some parts of africa. In mexico in particular it is harvested and exported in great quantities.
In the 17th century the plant was first thus described by the spanish missionary juan maria de salvatierra: the native peoples 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 unidentified plant “damiana”, after st damian, the tutelary saint of pharmacy.
Using damiana extracts to deal with coughs and other respiratory conditions has actually been passed down from spanish colonial times. The maya peoples smoked dried damiana leaves for relaxation and lung cleaning, their word for it actually implying “asthma broom”. It was also used to treat diabetes, malaria, menstrual disorders 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 item the mormon senior’s wafers was even treasured as a cure-all for sleeping disorders, lameness, nightmares and impotence. (4 ).
How it works?
Most research has been done on the unstable oil of damiana, which includes various little, fragrant compounds called terpenes. As yet, it is uncertain if the unstable oil is truly the primary active constituent of damiana. Damiana extracts have actually been revealed, in a test tube, to weakly bind to progesterone receptors. Therefore, damiana may be a potentially useful herb for some female health issue. Nevertheless, no human research studies have actually examined this possibility and it is not a main standard use. (5 ).
Advantages of damiana
Damiana (turnera diffusa, turnera aphrodisiaca) is a wild shrub. It is native to texas, mexico, south and central america, and the caribbean.
The dried leaves are thought to have an aphrodisiac impact for both males and females. This indicates they are used to improve sexual function. Damiana is also sold as a cravings suppressant.
In alternative medicine, damiana is utilized to deal with medical conditions, consisting of:.
- Asthma
- Stress and anxiety
- Anxiety
- Headache
- Constipation
- Menstrual disorders
There is no strong evidence to support these uses.
This article looks at the herb damiana and the evidence for its use.
Damiana has been utilized in folk medicine for centuries. Still, couple of research studies have actually looked at this plant’s effectiveness.
Much of the research that does exist is restricted to animal and lab research studies. The results of these studies can not be dependably applied to human beings.
Improved sexual function
Damiana is widely promoted as a sexual stimulant and aphrodisiac. There is little scientific support for this.
A 2009 research study discovered that damiana helped sexully tired male rats have a 2nd ejaculation. According to the study authors, the outcomes support its usage as an aphrodisiac.
The authors suggested that flavonoids in the plant might trigger this effect.these are antioxidant-rich compounds found in some fruits and vegetables.
Other research suggests damiana may also enhance female sexual satisfaction.
2 studies examined the supplement arginmax for ladies. This is an exclusive blend of:.
The very first study consisted of 77 females. Individuals took either arginmax or a placebo for four weeks. At the end of the study, 73% of those who took arginmax reported:.
- An increase in sexual desire
- A reduction of vaginal dryness
- A higher frequency of sexual intercourse and orgasm
- Boosted clitoral sensation
This is compared to 37% of the placebo group.
The second research study examined arginmax in females in numerous stages of life, consisting of:.
- Premenopause
- Perimenopause
- Postmenopause
All groups reported greater levels of libido and complete satisfaction. Scientists also noted that enhancements in the postmenopausal group were significant.
The supplement also did not impact estrogen levels. Research study authors suggested the supplement might be a better option than hormone-replacement therapy for older ladies who want to increase their sex drive.
Notably, researchers in both research studies might not state whether damiana alone can enhance sexual function. It is possible it might work only in combination with other herbs.
Recap
A couple of studies have actually found some proof for damiania’s usage in enhancing sexual function. More evidence is needed prior to it can be suggested for this usage.
Hunger suppressant
Damiana has actually also been studied as a weight-loss tool.
In a 2013 study, females were offered a herbal formula 15 minutes before meals. This formula included:.
- Damiana
- Yerba maté
- Guarana
Some participants also took an inulin based soluble fermentable fiber. This kind of fiber dissolves in water. It is discovered in the roots of many food plants.
Topics who took this formula ate much less food by volume and calories than to those who took the placebo.
Subjects who took the herbs but not the fiber also ate fewer calories. According to the research study authors, the supplement produced a robust, short-term reduction in cravings.
An earlier research study found that this organic formula postponed gastric emptying by an extra 20 minutes. This implies it took longer for food to leave the stomachs of those who took the formula.
It likewise decreased the time it took individuals to feel full.
Topics took the supplement daily prior to their main meal for 45 days. At the end of the time period, they ‘d lost an average of 11 pounds more than those taking a placebo.
Those who kept taking the supplement for a year kept their weight-loss.
This research reveals pledge. Still, the research study authors could not say if damiana reduces cravings on its own. More research study is required before it can be recommended as a weight-loss aid.
Recap
Some studies have actually also found proof that a herbal formula consisting of damiana can assist suppress hunger. More research is needed. (6 ).
Advantages for male and female
Male sexual health
Especially suggested for easing issues of accomplishing and keeping erections, damiana likewise works to relieve tension and stress and anxiety related to fears of insufficient sexual efficiency. Studies have actually shown that taking in the plant works to decrease the digestion system and rather hurries oxygen to genital areas. This assists males to achieve erection much more quickly and keep it for longer amount of times. Yet another research study declares that use of damiana leads to higher sensitivity in the erogenous zones, especially the genital areas, which in turn may help guys to experience greater sexual enjoyment.
Female sexual health
Damiana had long been thought of as an exclusively male aphrodisiac, up until household and integrated doctor cynthia watson released her book, “love potions, a guide to aphrodisiacs and sexual enjoyments”. In it, she presented proof suggesting that androgens such as testosterone might be effective for stimulating so-called “freezing” females, a characteristic some scientists think might be caused by an androgen shortage. Watson also stated she saw a restored interest in sex amongst females who used damiana. In additions she composed, “it is likewise reported to cause erotic dreams when intoxicated at bedtime. I can also inform you that damiana makes my dreams a minimum of a little uncommon, with qualities worthy of an abstract walt disney production”.
Antidepressant
Among the active constituents of this herb is thymol, and it is this substance that is accountable for damiana’s life enhancing and stimulating result on the body and mind. Numerous herbalists recommend damiana for moderate to moderate anxiety, anxiety and nervous exhaustion. Its stimulating and restorative residential or commercial properties make it a valuable herb for stress and anxiety and depression occurring together– as can frequently happen as a result of long term stress.
Digestion health
This flexible herb will promote gastrointestinal health by assisting in the breakdown of fats and sugars in the gastrointestinal system. This mechanism is useful as it increases the body’s nutrient absorption rate, thus ensuring the body receives the most nutrients discovered in the food we consume.
Damiana also motivates the cleansing of the intestinal tract, requiring the body to eliminate harmful chemicals and contaminants that would generally prevent the food digestion procedure. This natural herb can also be utilized to deal with dyspepsia or impaired digestion as it actively decreases the digestion procedure. (7 ).
Further more
May help combat avoid and diabetes
Some research study has actually revealed that a mix of damiana, guarana and yerba mate may help individuals who are overweight or overweight to reach a much healthier weight. These herbs can enhancing energy levels, which supports physical activity, reducing stress-related consuming, assisting with hormonal balance, and possibly lowering hunger or yearnings.
According to a research study published in the journal of enthopharamacology referenced above, not just does damiana have anti-obesity effects, but it also has antidiabetic, antioxidant, adapatogenic, antispasmodic and gastroprotective activities that may help in reducing the danger for many persistent diseases. In specific animal studies, t. Diffusa has been shown to have antioxidant homes that may prevent kidney damage and diabetes induced by mitochondrial oxidative stress.
May fight infections
A variety of types of turnera plantsare widely used in folk medicine for treating different types of inflammatory illness and infections. Today, research study informs us that plants in the turneraceae household can work as a source of plant-derived natural compounds that have antibiotic resistance-modifying activity.
Damiana has actually been revealed to serve as a natural anti-inflammatory representative, expectorant (it helps to open up the air passages and stop coughs) and immunomodulator. There’s proof that t. Diffusa can be utilized to treat otitis (ear aches/ear infections) and nephritis (swelling of the kidneys).
Pinocembrin is one of the primary flavonoids separated from damiana leaf. Pinocembrin activities have been well-researched and include antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer activities. For centuries, plants including pinocembrain and flavanoids (both discovered in damiana) have actually been used to combat bacterial infections of the breathing, reproductive and digestion systems– consisting of those brought on by bacterial stress such as gonorrhoeae, e. Coli, p. Aeruginosa, b. Subtilis, s. Aureus, s. Lentus and k. Pneumoniae.
Can help lower pain (headaches, stomach aches, pms, etc)
Ladies who suffer from extreme pms symptoms, such as cramps and mood swings, might gain from utilizing damiana leaf throughout their menstruations. Damiana may likewise help alleviate headaches, muscle aches and stomach pains. Considering that it has relaxant and gastrointestinal stimulating results, a historic use of damiana was consuming it to assist launch the muscles in the gi system in order to reduce irregularity, bloating and stomach discomfort. (8 ).
How to make damiana tea?
Step 1 or 2 heaping 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 small saucepan or tea kettle on the range top. Remove from heat and put the boiling water into the mug, over the dried damiana leaves.
Permit the damiana tea steep for 15-20 minutes. Strain the tea into a tidy coffee mug, or into another heat evidence drinking container. Dispose of the invested damiana leaves in the compost heap or trash bin.
Add a teaspoon of pure, raw honey to sweeten the damiana tea, if preferred, however do not utilize granulated or refined sugar, as this can harm the beneficial properties of the tea.
Garnish the damiana tea with a lemon wedge for additional taste, if desired, and drink right away. Optionally, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice.
Pointer
Include other enjoyable tasting herbs such as mint or lemon balm to your damiana tea if you find the taste too strong.
Warning
Do not take damiana tea if you are diabetic. It can trigger the blood sugar to increase, leading to unsafe negative effects. Prevent damiana tea if you are pregnant. Although there is no proof that it can cause harm, the results on the fetus are unidentified, and it is always better to be safe than sorry. (9 ).
Damiana tea advantages
The most significant health benefits of damiana tea may include its effects on fertility, libido, gastrointestinal health and energy levels, among others. The flavonoids found in this tea are able to give your body a major boost, and these stimulant qualities are also understood to assist increase libido and get rid of frigidity. The effects that the tea can have on the hormones is undeniable, and not just can it assist to enhance fertility, however can likewise regulate menstruation and prevent much of the typical symptoms of that month-to-month cycle. (10 ).
Adverse effects of damiana
Get emergency situation medical aid if you have indications of an allergic reaction: hives; trouble breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop utilizing damiana and call your doctor simultaneously if you have:.
- A seizure (convulsions);
- Trouble breathing;
- Fever, nausea, throwing up;
- Changes in your mental status (agitation, worry, concern, confusion, hallucinations);
- Difficulty swallowing, extreme saliva, drooling;
- Loss of movement in any part of your body; or
- Unpleasant muscle spasms or unrestrained muscle motion.
This is not a complete list of adverse effects and others might take place. Call your doctor for medical advice about negative effects. (11 ).
How to take damiana tea?
Damiana can be taken as a tea up to 3 times a day. Prepare approximately 1 teaspoon (6-12 g) of damiana dried leaves in a mug of boiling water, delegate brew for 10 minutes before drinking. You can also take it in capsule or liquid extract kind. The suitable dose can depend on numerous factors such as age, body composition and existence of any other conditions. Similar to a lot of organic treatments, it is best to work with a functional medical professional or naturopath to assist you identify which is finest for your requirements. (12 ).
Dosage
These days, you can discover dried damiana leaves in tea bags and capsules. It’s likewise sold in casts, both alcoholic and alcohol-free. Smoking cigarettes and breathing in damiana leaves is possible however not encouraged.
Pregnant and nursing mothers should not consume damiana, nor ought to individuals with liver problems. In high dosages, damiana is stated to cause hallucinations. If you experience hallucinations while taking damiana, keep one’s cool and get medical assistance as rapidly as possible.
Check out the label on your damiana preparation for dosage directions. A general guide is to take 2 to 4 grams or less of dried damiana in tea or capsule kind with meals, three times a day. Specific experiences will differ, but hallucinations have actually been reported at dosages of 200 g.
Damiana has been offered as a component called “spice,” present in some organic mixes that mimic the results of marijuana. States differ on the legality these blends, however damiana is legal all over in the united states except louisiana. (13 ).
Interaction
Do not take damiana without medical recommendations if you are using any of the following medications:.
Insulin or oral diabetes medicine.
This list is not total. Other drugs may connect with damiana, consisting of prescription and over the counter medications, vitamins, and organic products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this product guide. (14 ).
Precaution
Scientific literature and research claim that damiana and its leaves are among the best supplements for enhancing sexual performance.
There are almost no or very little side effects reported versus damiana. There are also no shown 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 because it is a powerful emmenagogue. Damiana can induce menstruation in women.
It may lead to abortion or a stillborn if you did not refrain from the supplements. Please consult your physician about taking this natural medicine in any case. (15 ).
Conclusions
Examination of the cytotoxic residential or commercial properties of t. Diffusa exposed considerable impacts for different apolar extracts versus the myeloma cell lines mm1s, u266 and nci-h929. Systematic evaluation of the active extracts by uhplc resulted in the decrease of the complex metabolite to a range of possible prospects, which were consequently separated. Of these compounds, naringenin and apigenin 7-o-( 4 ″- o-p-e-coumaroyl)- glucoside were determined as 2 components responsible for the observed activity. The cytotoxicity of naringenin is in line with previous findings, if nevertheless, observed for other cell lines.up to the best of our knowledge, substance 4 is described as cytotoxic for the first time. However, its aglycone apigenin has actually been found active versus cancer cell lines in the past. Interestingly, only one of the two checked apigenin coumaroyl glucosides (compounds 3 and 4) showed activity in the conducted assays, indicating steric effects to play an essential function for the cytotoxicity of these compounds.
Additionally, today research study explains the first confirmed uhplc-dad method for the quantification of phenolic constituents in t. Diffusa. The established assay permits the quantitation of 8 flavonoids in both, the herb and the conventional preparation of t. Diffusa, and coupled to mass spectrometry offers info on the abundance of another five flavonoids taking place in hydroethanolic damiana extracts. (16 ).
References
- Https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/turnera_diffusa
- Https://www.rxlist.com/damiana/supplements.htm
- Https://www.encyclopedia.com/places/africa/mauritius-and-runion-political-geography/damiana
- Https://www.ewaliashop.com/ewalia-magic-tips/damiana
- Https://www.peacehealth.org/medical-topics/id/hn-2077004#hn-2077004-how-it-works
- Https://www.verywellhealth.com/damiana-what-should-i-know-about-it-89557
- Https://www.indigo-herbs.co.uk/natural-health-guide/benefits/damiana
- Https://draxe.com/nutrition/damiana
- Https://www.leaf.tv/articles/how-to-make-damiana-tea/
- Https://www.organicfacts.net/damiana-tea.html
- Https://www.drugs.com/mtm/damiana.html
- Https://www.mariongluckclinic.com/blog/in-bed-with-damiana.html
- Https://www.healthline.com/health/damiana-ancient-aphrodisiac#dosage
- Https://www.emedicinehealth.com/drug-damiana/article_em.htm
- Https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/damiana-leaf/
- Https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc6429218/
