The Damiana Herb

(Western Herb)

Turnera diffusa - aphrodisiaca

The Damiana herb is also known as Mexican damiana, Mizibcoc, and Old woman's broom.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND INFORMATION:

Damiana is an aromatic herb that grows to a height of six feet. It has pale, smooth, green leaves and bright yellow flowers. The plant grows in the hot and humid regions of Texas, Mexico, Central America and Namibia.

It has been used as a food additive in sweets, baked goods, and liqueurs and has been said by a few that you can get about a ninety minute high when you smoke the leaves.

The Damiana herb helps with the delivery of oxygen to the genital area and is used as an aphrodisiac. It us used as a remedy for sexual and hormonal problems an as a sexuality tonic for women.

TARGET AILMENTS:

Take internally for:

* strengthening the nervous system

* depression

* anxiety

* listleness

* low sex drive

* laxative

* urinary tract infections (UTI)

* reduces hot flashes

PREPARATIONS AND DOSAGE:

Over the counter: Damiana is available in dry bulk, tinctures, and capsules in health food stores.

Tincture: Take 1 to 2 ml of tincture three times a day or follow recommended dosage on container.

At home:

Infusion: Pour one cup of boiling water over one teaspoonful of dried leaves and let infuse for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink this three times a day.

Parts used: Dried leaves and stems

Collection: The leaves are harvested in the summer when the plant is in bloom, for medicinal use.

Constituents: Tannins, falvonoid, alkaloids, resin, essential oil

Actions: Anti-depressant, urinary antiseptic, laxative, nerve tonic

Combinations: Damiana can be combined with any or all of the following: Oats, Skullcap, or Kola for nervous anxiety and depression.

SAFETY AND SIDE EFFECTS:

* When taken in excess it can lead to diarrhea, insomnia, and headaches.

* This herb should not be taken by pregnant women.