Damiana is a small, aromatic shrub native to Central America, South America, Mexico, the Caribbean and the southwestern U.S. For centuries, native peoples have enjoyed the leaf prepared as a sweetened tea. Damiana is also a traditional ingredient in Mexican liquors. In fact, the herb was reputedly used as the key flavoring agent in the liquor used to make the original margarita. Due to a reputation for rousing excitability, damiana is prohibited in some regions. Elsewhere, the fresh leaf is added to salads and the dried to tea blends.
description Damiana belongs to the Passifloraceae family. It is a small shrub that grows 1-2 m high and bears aromatic, serrate leaves that are 10-25 cm long. Small yellow flowers bloom in early to late summer and are followed by small fruits with a sweet smell and fig-like flavor.
common names & nomenclature The name of the genus honors William Turner (1508–1568), English clergyman, physician, herbalist, and ornithologist.
Also known as: old woman's broom, mexican damiana, herba de la pastora, mexican holly, damiana
Turnera diffusa is native to southwestern Texas in the United States, Central America, Mexico, South America, and the Caribbean.
climate Damiana grows in dry, sandy or rocky places, prefers full sun.
soil Damiana grows best in sandy, dry, well-draining soil.
growing Sow seeds in spring in a greenhouse, transplant out the seedlings into individual pots once they are large enough to handle and grow them on for at least their first winter. Plant them out into the garden in early summer and give some protection from winter cold for at least their first winter outdoors. This plant can also be propagated by cuttings or division.
harvesting Harvest the plants when in flower and dry for later use.
preserving Store the dried leaves, cut or powdered, in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
the tonic effects of damiana Damiana is an herb that’s been used in Latin America and throughout the Caribbean for many years. In Mexico, it was once used as an aphrodisiac.
If you suffer from mild depression, you may want to consider making damiana a part of your routine.
If you’re having problems with your urinary tract, damiana can be a powerful antiseptic. It will help to fight the infection and allow you to have less pain during urination. You’ll also find that you’ll need to urinate less.
If you’re struggling with the pain and discomfort from constipation, you’ll find that damiana can bring relief to you. Damiana actually works to tone the intestines and allow you to go the bathroom more regularly.
While damiana works to treat health problems, it can also be used on a daily basis to help keep you healthy and strong. It’s considered a cure-all for people in Latin America to this day, and you may find that it works for you, too.
Damiana can be taken in many different ways. Some people prefer to take it in convenient tablet form. For others teas, or as a tonic infusion.
No matter what you prefer, damiana may be just the thing you need to stay healthy and strong. Take a cue from the people who have been using damiana for thousands of years. Stock up on it and you’ll be able to stay healthy and strong for years to come. While you can use damiana to treat problems, you can also use it to prevent them.
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
