DAMIANA

Chemical properties

Damiana is a small, branched shrub with alternate leaves and solitary, axillary, yellow flowers. It is native to dry areas in Mexico, California, Bolivia, Brazil, Antilles and tropical America. The plant is known in Mexico as hierba de la pastora and is believed to exhibit aphrodisiac, as well as diuretic and stimulant, properties. The leaves are yellow-brown, aromatic, broadly lanceolate, 10 to 25 mm long with three to six teeth along the margin. The leaves are the part used. Damiana has a bitter, tonic taste and an aromatic odor.

Occurrence

Damiana is a shrub found in the United States and in Central and South America.

The Uses of DAMIANA

Damiana is used as an aphrodisiac to increase sexual potency. It may irritate the urethra and increase sensitivity of the penis. Damiana may be used in combination with other herbs for sexual potency. This herb is also used as a diuretic, antidepressant, laxative, and antianxiety agent, and it is thought to produce euphoric effects when smoked.

Essential oil composition

Damiana contains a complex volatile oil (0.5 to 1%) that gives the plant its characteristic odor and taste. Analysis of the oil has identified a low boiling fraction mainly composed of 1,8-cineol and pinenes.* The higher boiling point fraction is believed to contain thymol and a number of sesquiterpenes.