Parts Most Frequently Used: Leaves (harvested during the flowering season), Stem, Seed, Flower

Flavors/Temps: Bitter, Pungent, Neutral, Dry

Caution: If you are a diabetic use this herb with caution as the plant has mild hyperglycemic effects. It also has a traditional use as an abortive and is therefore contraindicated during pregnancy.

History/Folklore: Damiana was used as an aphrodisiac in ancient Mayan times as well as to treat hysteria and loss of balance. In fact, the ancient world-wide use of the plant was most frequently as an aphrodisiac. Today, it is also used to treat headaches, depression, nausea caused by stress, constipation, bed wetting, menstrual disorders, and to boost mental and physical stamina.

For male sexual health the herb has been used to maintain erections, relieve stress related to performance issues, help move blood to the genital areas, and even increase sensitivity increasing sexual pleasure. The herb has viagra-like effects without the harmful side effects of using Viagra. Researchers from the University of Buenos Aires, found that damiana was more effective than Viagra and safer to use.

For female sexual health it is used to increase libido and help stimulate sexual interest in women whose reduced sexual desire may be due to androgen deficiency. The herb helps reduce vaginal dryness, which can reduce sex drive, especially in older women as they begin to enter menopause. The herb can heighten the probability of reaching orgasm by increasing sexual sensitivities.

Damiana contains several chemical compounds that positively impact the endocrine and nervous systems. It is used to both relax the body and stimulate or improve overall energy levels at the same time.

The constituent thymol, found in damiana, is known to stimulate the mind and body, helping to relieve depression, fatigue, malaise, and counter the effects of nervous exhaustion and stress. Thymol is also found in thyme this compound is also known for its decongestant and expectorant properties.

The constituent arbutin, found in damiana, is known to convert into hydroquinone in the urinary tract. Hydroquinone is a urinary antiseptic also found in the herb bearberry (aka uva ursi).

It is said that the indigenous Guaycura of the Baja region of Mexico were the first to use the damiana that is native to the region. They in turn introduced it to others through trade with the Aztecs and Mayans.

The dried leaves can be used in cordials, teas, tinctures, powdered form, capsules, and herbal smoking blends.

Damiana is known to induce unusual and even erotic dreams.

Typical dosing for using the powder is 1-3 g up to twice a day, in fluid extract form 2-4 ml of extract per day, and by cut herb, 1 teaspoon per cup of boiling water, and let steep for 10-15 minutes.

Damiana liqueur is being added to cocktails for its flavor and stimulating properties. Marijuana chefs are blending Damiana, cannabis, and chocolate to make tasty and soothing treats.

Damiana is used to aid astral travel and psychic dreams and is put in charms for love.

The origin of the common name, damiana, derives from the Greek word, daman, meaning “to tame or subdue.” It is the feminine version of Damian and implies that damiana is the wild one “who tames.”

Damiana is sometimes confused with dhatura (Datura stramonium). They are different plants.