Damiana Side Effects

Damiana is the common name of the plant Turnera diffusa of the family Turneraceae, which is native to the regions of Mexico, Caribbean and South and Central America. Another common species of damiana is the herb Turnera aphrodisiaca, which too belongs to the family Turneraceae. Damiana is basically a shrub with aromatic leaves and flowers. The plant, its leaves and flowers, usually smell like chamomile, due to the presence of a volatile oil. The leaves of this plant are widely used in traditional medicine for treating a host of conditions or ailments. Generally, the plant has a reputation for being an aphrodisiac agent. Damiana leaves are usually used to prepare tea, which is then taken to treat a number of health problems. However, overuse of damiana can cause a few side effects. But before discussing more about damiana side effects, let's throw some light on its medicinal properties and uses.

Uses and Benefits of Damiana

As has been mentioned already, the damiana herb is mainly known for its aphrodisiac qualities. However, the effects of damiana on the human libido has not been tested so far, and as such, there is no scientific evidence to prove its aphrodisiac qualities. But, in animal studies, damiana has been found to improve the mating behavior of impotent male rats. Damiana is also used traditionally in conditions like, depression and mood disorders, for its presumed anti-depressant properties.

Damiana and its supplements can boost the level of energy, and may prove helpful in conditions like, cough, constipation, hot flashes, bed wetting, fibromyalgia and inflammation of the prostate. Women might find this herb beneficial for alleviating the menopause symptoms. Apart from these medicinal uses, damiana is used in the preparation of traditional Mexican liquor. It is also smoked by some individuals. When smoked, damiana is said to produce a relaxing effect.

Damiana Side Effects

Till now, overuse of damiana has been found to cause some mild side effects like gastrointestinal problems. Damiana has laxative properties, due to which it is used to treat constipation. But an overdose can lead to stool loosening or diarrhea. It can also cause mild indigestion and nausea. Damiana contains a compound called arbutin, which is converted into hydroquinone in the urinary tract. Presence of excess hydroquinone can manifest in nausea, vomiting and tinnitus. Sometimes, overdose may also cause convulsions.

In addition to these, headaches, insomnia, weight loss, irritation of the urethral mucosa and low blood sugar are some other important damiana leaf side effects. Due to its effect on the level of blood sugar, individuals taking diabetes medications need to regularly monitor the level of their blood sugar, while taking damiana. In the long run, continuous intake of damiana or its herbal supplements can interfere with the absorption of iron.

Those individuals who smoke damiana for recreational purposes can experience a few other side effects. The main smoking damiana side effects are irritation of the lung tissues, headache and an adverse effect on the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood. People allergic to damiana on the other hand, can experience hives or skin rash, breathing difficulty and unusual swelling of the face, tongue and lips, which are the classic symptoms of an allergic reaction.

So, these are the usual damiana side effects. The effect of the herb on pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, as well as in young children and people with liver and kidney diseases has not been established so far. Therefore, they should not use this herb and its supplements without talking to their physician. Even people taking diabetes or any other medication for an underlying health condition need to consult a herbalist or health care provider before taking damiana or any other herb and herbal supplements.