Damiana
Turnera diffusa
Personality:
Damiana is usually thought of as a ‘male’ herb because of it’s tradition in treating male problems of: infertility, low libido, impotence etc’. Its’ uses, as you can see below, extend beyond this simple view of the herb. The fresh plant has a striking combination of yellow flowers, rich green foliage and purple stems.
Sources:
Any plant with a strong tradition as an aphrodisiac tends to be popular and in ready supply (e.g. Ginseng and Saw Palmetto). Damiana is no exception and is easy to source from herbal apothecaries, health food shops etc’. It requires a hot climate and is not cultivated in Britain.
Anecdotes:
I have known Damiana work successfully as part of a treatment for infertility. It is not possible to identify if this is due to the tonic effect on the male reproductive system or on its ability to help clear urinary tract infections. It is thought that urinary tract infections in both men and women (usually urethritis) account for a significant proportion of infertility problems.
Uses:
Tonic for the male reproductive system, also sometimes used to tonify the female reproductive system, in cases of painful periods, particularly if associated with low energy levels or depression.
Actions:
Anti depressive, stimulant, urinary system antiseptic, reproductive system and general tonic.
Dosage & Preparations:
As with all stimulant remedies I recommend starting with a low dose to assess ones individual sensitivity and building up to an average adult dose of 3g dried herb equivalent per day.
Combinations:
Works well as part of a general tonic, sometimes combined with Oats and/or Ginseng.