Damiana Tea

Damiana is a shrub, that is native to Central and South America. Damiana herb is gentle and is often used to make tea or infusion. The dried leaves and stem of the plant are used to make damiana tea. The small yellow flowers of the damiana shrub are normally compared with chamomile. The tea is available at most of the local health stores or it can also be ordered online. In this article, we will see the recipe as well as the health benefits of damiana tea and also its side-effects.

Damiana Tea Recipe

The recipe is very easy and will not take more than 20 minutes, along with the steeping time. To make the tea, you will require 1 to 1 ½ teaspoons of dried damiana leaves for per cup of tea to be made. This recipe mentions the use of raw honey. If you do not have honey, you can also use granulated or refined sugar or any other sweetener.

Ingredients

• Dried damiana leaves 1 to 1 ½ teaspoons
• Water 1 cup
• Raw Honey (optional) 1 teaspoon
• Lemon Wedges (or Lemon Juice ½ teaspoon) 1

Method

• In a saucepan bring water to a boil.
• In a coffee mug place damiana leaves, pour the boiled water on the leaves.
• Cover the cup and let the tea leaves steep into the water for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Strain the tea and add raw honey to it.
• Garnish the tea with lemon wedges or add lemon juice to the tea for the additional flavor.

Tea Benefits

There are many damiana benefits, due to which it has been very popular. It has been used to treat numerous ailments ranging from mild cases of constipation to boost libido.

• Damiana tea has been used for constipation as well as nervous dyspepsia. Normally two to three cups of tea should be consumed throughout the day to treat the problem.
• It is also used to treat irritable bowel syndrome.
• People suffering from asthma have also benefited from the use of damiana tea.
• Mood swings and depression have also been treated with this tea.
• Conditions related to bronchitis and also ear-nose-throat problems can also be treated with the regular consumption of damiana tea.
• It has proved to be beneficial in fighting menstrual problems.
• According to the folk herbalist it helps in enhancing sexual stimulation in both sexes. It is said to be beneficial in countering impotence for men and frigidity in women.
• Many people also consume damiana tea, as it helps in increasing the energy levels and thereby also combat lethargy.

Side Effects

Although there are numerous benefits of damiana tea, there are some rare side effects of it as well. If high doses of damiana are taken, it can cause diarrhea, which can eventually lead to dehydration. It has been said to change blood sugar levels. Hence people suffering from high blood sugar levels should be cautious before they take the tea. People suffering from kidney diseases, may want to refrain from the consumption of damiana tea. Very high dose of the tea can also cause disorientation, dizziness, headache and also insomnia. It is recommended, that pregnant women, should NOT consume tea brewed from damiana leaves, as the effect of the herb on pregnancy is not yet thoroughly examined.

It is recommended that you consult your health care professional before you consume damiana tea, so that you do not suffer from the side effects of the tea. At the same time, your health care professional will be in a better position to judge if it is suitable for your health condition.