Introduction

Damiana is an herb with yellow flowers. The leaves have been used to improve sexual function and breathing. It can be taken as a pill, powder, or extract. Damiana can also be made into a tea.

Dosages

There are no advised doses for damiana.

What Research Shows

Not Enough Data to Assess

  • Female sexual function A1
  • Weight Loss B1

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Safety Notes

It is likely safe to take damiana in small doses for a short time. Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to use for a long period. It is also not known whether it is safe to take by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.

 

References

A. Female Sexual Function

A1. Ito TY, Trant AS, et al. A double-blind placebo-controlled study of ArginMax, a nutritional supplement for enhancement of female sexual function. J Sex Marital Ther. 2001 Oct-Dec;27(5):541-549.

B. Weight Loss

B1. Andersen T, Fogh J. Weight loss and delayed gastric emptying following a South American herbal preparation in overweight patients. J Hum Nutr Diet. 2001 Jun;14(3):243-250.

Last reviewed February 2020 by EBSCO NAT Review Board Eric Hurwitz, DC