Damiana

Learn about Damiana

Botanical name: Turnera diffusa
Other names: Turnera aphrodisiaca

Our favourite happy herb! Damiana acts as a kidney tonic and is an extremely effective aphrodisiac, especially for women. It boosts mood and lowers stress. Damiana is the perfect cup of tea at the end of a long day, and it also makes for a pleasant, relaxing smoke. It is a great alternative to alcohol and other substances due to its non-addictive nature and its great stress-relieving properties. Damiana has a long reputation as an aphrodisiac (even the latin name agrees), and although clinical studies show greater assistance for male libido and impotence, the most glowing feedback we have received over the years has always been from the ladies! Great for lovers.

CULTURAL USES:

Damiana (Turnera diffusa) has a rich history of cultural use, particularly among indigenous peoples in Central and South America. Its cultural significance varies among different communities, but it has played roles in rituals, ceremonies, and traditional medicine for centuries. The Damiana plant is so important that it has been classified in Mexico as a “national treasure” and is now a prohibited export as a live plant. Here are some aspects of its cultural use:

• Mayan Culture: The ancient Mayans used Damiana in religious and ritualistic contexts. It was believed to have aphrodisiac properties and was used to make a fermented drink called “balché,” which was consumed during ceremonies.
• Aztec Culture: The Aztecs also utilised Damiana in various ways. They used it as a mood-enhancing herb and considered it an important ingredient in herbal tonics and remedies.
• Mexican Folklore: In Mexican folklore, Damiana has been associated with love and passion. It’s sometimes used in love spells or rituals designed to attract a romantic partner. The leaves and flowers are sometimes placed under pillows to enhance dreams related to love and desire.
• Traditional Medicine: Damiana has been used in traditional Mexican and Central American medicine for various purposes. It was often brewed into teas or infusions and consumed as a remedy for digestive issues, such as indigestion and constipation. It was also used as a general tonic to boost energy and overall well-being. Some indigenous cultures also used Damiana for its calming properties to help reduce anxiety and stress. 
• Rituals and Ceremonies: Damiana has been included in various rituals and ceremonies, particularly those related to love, marriage, and fertility. It was sometimes used to bless unions or to invoke fertility deities.
• Cultural Symbolism: In some indigenous cultures, Damiana has held symbolic significance, representing love, sensuality, and connection. It has been incorporated into art, folklore, and storytelling as a symbol of these themes.

The cultural uses and beliefs surrounding Damiana have contributed to its reputation as a herb associated with love, passion, and well-being in various traditions throughout the Americas. This rich cultural tradition has contributed to its continued reputation as an effective aphrodisiac and mood enhancer.

MODERN USES:

In modern herbalism, Damiana (Turnera diffusa) is still used for a variety of purposes, often based on its historical uses and anecdotal evidence, unfortunately research on Damiana is limited. Here are some of its current uses in herbalism:

• Aphrodisiac and Libido Enhancement: Damiana is perhaps most well-known in herbalism for its reputation as an aphrodisiac. It is believed to increase sexual desire and improve sexual performance. It is often included in herbal blends or taken as a supplement to address issues related to low libido or sexual dysfunction.
• Stress and Anxiety Relief: Damiana is used by many herbalists to alleviate stress and anxiety. Its mild relaxing properties can help calm the nerves and reduce tension. It is used in herbal formulations designed to promote relaxation.
• Mood Enhancement: In addition to its anti-anxiety effects, Damiana is also used to uplift the mood. It is described by many to have a mild euphoric quality that may help improve overall well-being.
• Digestive Aid: Traditional uses of Damiana include its role as a digestive tonic. Herbalists may recommend Damiana to alleviate symptoms of indigestion, bloating, or constipation. It is thought to help stimulate digestion.
• Menstrual Support: Some herbalists suggest Damiana for menstrual issues, including menstrual pain, PMS and irregular cycles. It may be included in herbal formulations designed to support women’s reproductive health. 
• Respiratory Health: In some traditional uses, Damiana has been employed to relieve symptoms of respiratory conditions, such as coughs and bronchitis. It is thought to have mild expectorant properties.
• Kidney Health: Damiana is also used as a kidney tonic. As a mild diuretic, it helps increase urination.
• Aromatherapy: Damiana essential oil, extracted from the leaves and stems of the plant, is used in aromatherapy for its potential to create a calming and sensual atmosphere. It may be diffused or added to massage oils and bath products.
• Herbal Teas and Tinctures: Damiana leaves are commonly used to prepare herbal teas or tinctures. These preparations are used to enjoy Damiana’s potential benefits, such as mood enhancement or relaxation.

EXPERIENTIAL EFFECTS: 

Damiana affects the psyche, producing a mild emotional uplift that can last for up to one and a half hours. Some damiana before bed relaxes one for love-making and promotes pleasant dreams (quite possibly erotic within the first seven days)! Three-dimensional effects and colour appreciation may also be heightened.

References:

Ray Thorpe (2009), Happy High Herbs.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1062162/#b12,

http://www.rain-tree.com/damiana.htm#.VNGq046Eb78

Damiana Common Uses

Damiana Actions

Damiana Recipes

Damiana Precautions

Damiana may increase fertility and libido in men and women. Make sure your family planning is up to scratch! Excessive use over a long period may interfere with iron absorption. Limit consumption if you are anaemic.