Damiana: An Ancient Aphrodisiac - Healthline

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Medically reviewed by Kerry Boyle D.Ac., M.S., L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., CYT — Written by Elea Carey — Updated on May 31, 2023

Uses
Aphrodisiacs
Dosage
Outlook

Damiana is said to help enhance sexual health and treat a vast array of symptoms from diabetes to anxiety. But there isn’t much more than anecdotal evidence to support these claims.

Damiana, also known as Turnera diffusa, is a low-growing plant with yellow flowers and fragrant leaves. It’s native to the subtropical climates of southern Texas, Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Damiana’s use as an herbal remedy predates written history.

By the time the Spanish crossed the Atlantic, indigenous cultures had used it for centuries as an aphrodisiac and bladder tonic.

Despite the lack of scientific evidence to support these claims, damiana continues to be used by many people, as it has been for years.

We use “women” and “men” in this article to reflect the terms that have been historically used to gender people. But your gender identity may not align with how your body responds to this disease.

What’s damiana used for?

Damiana flower — Tatiana Terekhina/Getty Images

To use damiana, you consume its leaves. Damiana is used differently in men than women. It’s thought to increase sexual arousal and stamina in men. In women, it’s used to regulate menstruation and help with menopause symptoms.

Traditionally, it’s been used for treating bladder and urinary issues. Some people like the way the herb makes them feel because of its effect on the bladder. These uses aren’t supported by contemporary research.

When it comes to bladder relief and herbal remedies that you drink or swallow with water, it’s hard to tell whether an individual herb is helpful.

It’s possible that you feel better because taking in extra fluid tends to ease bladder pain. But if you think you have a urinary tract infection, talk with your doctor.

Aphrodisiacs

Over the centuries and around the globe, many things have been credited as aphrodisiacs. Oysters, asparagus, and artichokes have a history as aphrodisiacs, and some recommend plants like saw palmetto or beetle extracts like Spanish fly.

It’s important to remember that there’s no federal regulation of herbal remedies sold in the United States. Use caution when considering whether to take any herbal therapies. If you choose to take damiana for sexual reasons, make sure you check out the dosing information below and ask your doctor first.

Dosage

These days, you can find dried damiana leaves in tea bags and capsules. It’s also sold in tinctures, both alcoholic and alcohol-free. Smoking and inhaling damiana leaves is possible but not advised.

Pregnant and nursing mothers should not consume damiana, nor should people with liver issues. In high doses, damiana is said to cause hallucinations. If you experience hallucinations while taking damiana, keep calm and get medical help as quickly as possible.

Read the label on your damiana preparation for dosage instructions. A general guide is to take 2 to 4 grams (g) or less of dried damiana in tea or capsule form with meals, three times a day. Individual experiences will vary, but hallucinations have been reported at doses of 200 g.

Damiana has been sold as an ingredient called “spice,” present in some herbal mixtures that mimic the effects of cannabis. States vary on the legality of these blends, but damiana is legal everywhere in the United States.

Outlook

Damiana has been used for centuries as an aphrodisiac, but modern research is lacking in its actual effectiveness as a sex enhancer.

Is damiana a surefire ignition to a great sex life? Probably not. But for some people, it might not be harmful. Talk with your doctor before adding any supplements to your diet.

How we reviewed this article:

SourcesHistoryHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Damiana benefits. (n.d.).https://www.indigo-herbs.co.uk/natural-health-guide/benefits/damiana
Kotta S, et al. (2013). Exploring scientifically proven herbal aphrodisiacs.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3731873/
Szewczyk K & Zidorn C. (2014). Ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and bioactivity of the genus Turnera (Passifloraceae) with a focus on damiana--Turnera diffusa.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24468305/
Zhao J, et al. (2008). Anti-aromatase activity of the constituents from damiana (Turnera diffusa).https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18948180/

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Medically reviewed by Kerry Boyle D.Ac., M.S., L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., CYT — Written by Elea Carey — Updated on May 31, 2023

Damiana: An Ancient Aphrodisiac - Healthline

What’s damiana used for?

Aphrodisiacs

Dosage

Outlook

How we reviewed this article:

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