Plant Profile: Damiana

Damiana

(Turnera aphrodesiaca; T. diffusa)

Family: TURNERACEAE

Energetics: Warming.

Taste: Spicy

Tissue States: 

Systems Affected: Central nervous system. Hormonal. Kidneys.

Parts Used: Leaf 

Key Components: Volatile oils (pinene, cineol, cymol, arbutin, cymene, cadinene, copaenen). Alkaloids. Bitters. Flavonoids. Hydrocyanic glycosides. Tannins. Resin. 

Preparations & dosage: Infusion: Tincture: Powdered: In capsules. 

Actions: 

Foundational: Relaxant.
Primary: Aphrodesiac. Diuretic.
Secondary: Tonic (nervous system). Antiseptic.

Uses: 

 Strengthening remedy for nervous system. Toning action on the Central Nervous System & hormonal system. Depression. Anxiety & depression that effects sexual function. Specific for depression & anxiety where there is a sexual factor. Lowered libido. A mild aphrodisiac for both men & women. Especially useful for strengthening the male sex drive but is also beneficial for the female reproductive system as well. Impotence, infertility, nervous exhaustion, anxiety. Urinary antiseptic. Has also been shown to be useful for mucus congestion & coughs.

Combines well with: 

Identifying: 

Growing:

Harvesting:

Contraindications: Don't use if you have urinary irritation or kidney disease. Avoid if pregnant or nursing. Blend with other herbs to avoid irritation to the urinary tract. 

Sources: 

The Complete Herbs Sourcebook: David Hoffman. Pg 248
The Way of Herbs: Michael Tierra. Pg 127
Rosemary Gladstar's Herbal Healing for Men: Rosemary Gladstar. Pg 172

Studies:


This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, nor is it intended to replace medical advice. For educational purposes only.