Damiana Quick Guide: Benefits and How to Take

When you’re stocking your medicine cabinet with herbs, you want options that can bring several benefits to the table. While we work diligently to offer a range of herbs that can support you, we understand it’s nice to have an herb that provides a range of potential perks. One of the special herbs is damiana.

Damiana (Turnera diffusa) has been used for centuries as a therapy for several ailments and health concerns. While this herb isn’t used in traditional medical practices today, damiana may benefit you. We’ve received many reviews for our damiana offerings that present accounts of benefits the users have experienced. Plus, ongoing studies have linked several potentially positive bioactivities to damiana.

Could this little yellow flower be what you or your customers need to feel better? Stick with us to find out!

A QUICK DAMIANA OVERVIEW

Damiana, also known as Old Woman’s Broom, thrives in hot, sandy environments with plenty of sun. In the United States, damiana is native to southwestern Texas, Arizona and southern California. Around the world, you will find damiana in Mexico, South America and the West Indies.

This herb has a sweet, pungent, slightly bitter flavor that leaves you with a warming, astringent sensation. Damiana has been made into teas, cordials, tinctures and its own liqueur in Mexico. The herb has roots as a therapeutic herb as far back as the ancient Mayans, who used the herb as an aphrodisiac. Many still turn back to this ancient herb to boost their well-being.

Let’s look at four potential benefits you could experience when using Damiana.

FOUR POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF DAMIANA

Active Ingredients Identified in Damiana

Researchers have identified several bioactive compounds when taking a closer look at damiana’s phytochemistry. One scientific review stated that damiana contains more than 22 flavonoids, metabolites found in plant products, as well as glycosides and volatile oils that provide its effects.

How can some of these ingredients make you feel better? Keep reading to see if damiana may be a good fit for you. With all herbal supplements, please consult your primary care provider for any medical conditions before using.

#1. Damiana as an Aphrodisiac

Unfortunately, sexual dysfunctions affect a large percentage of the population. Men and women deal with different sexual dysfunctions as a result of age, stress and environmental factors. There have been a number of studies on damiana’s effect as a sexual aid and aphrodisiac. In a review of damiana studies from 2013-2023, one study showed that men and women reported lower sexual dysfunction and rated higher scores on their respective sexual satisfaction scales.

#2. Damiana as an Antioxidant Supplement

Oxidation is a normal process in the human body, regardless of health. However, oxidative stress is an exaggerated version of the normal oxidation process that can cause several health issues. When you experience oxidative stress, there is a major imbalance between the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the antioxidants in your body.

Antioxidants are derived from plant products and can be found in fruits, vegetables and herbs. Research on damiana’s anti photoaging effects showed an ability to suppress reactive oxygen species caused by overexposure to ultraviolet rays, helping potentially reduce the aging effect sun exposure could have on the skin.

#3. Damiana as an Anti-inflammatory Agent

Inflammation is your body’s natural response to an injury or illness as it tries to protect the area from further damage. However, chronic inflammation can be painful and damage healthy cells, causing other health complications. Bioactive compounds in damiana may be able to help you manage symptoms of inflammation and reduce swelling.

#4. Damiana as an Anxiolytic

Damiana is known for the calming feeling it can present to users of the herb, as it has traditionally been used as a nerve tonic and therapy for anxiety. One study found a connection between the prominent damiana flavonoid apigenin and reduced anxious activity.

If you are looking for a mild nervine to help manage symptoms of anxiety, a cup of damiana tea may be the perfect way to find relaxation. It’s also a great idea to review our full list of adaptogens for more options to find balance in your day.

WAYS TO TAKE DAMIANA

If you’re looking for ways to incorporate damiana into your regimen or have customers interested in utilizing it for its potential benefits, the three common ways you will see damiana used are as a tea, tincture or capsule. Dosage will vary from person to person. If you have questions about damiana dosage, consult with a healthcare provider or an herbalist.

How to Make Damiana Tea

Damiana tea is a great way to take advantage of the herb’s natural benefits in a warm, soothing beverage. You can steep one 1/2 teaspoon of dried damiana leaves for every cup of tea you want to make in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Pairing damiana with other herbs, like chamomile or spearmint, is a great idea for a better-tasting and more effective tea.

Damiana Tinctures

If you are looking for a more direct way to take damiana, tinctures are always an excellent option. Of course, you have to be ready to wait a few weeks to reap the potency benefits of the tincture. But, once the tincture is prepared, you can quickly take a few drops and be on your way. To learn how to produce your own damiana tincture, review our article covering tincture production.

Damiana Capsules

Finally, if you want a straightforward way to take damiana, the capsule format may work best for you. Producing your own damiana capsules is an excellent way to control the dosage and potency of your capsules. You can use a capsule machine and damiana leaf powder to craft your own herbal supplements.

SUPPORTING CUSTOMERS LOOKING FOR HERBAL THERAPIES

Some market researchers project global demand for herbal medicines to grow by 11.6% by 2030. People are looking for natural ways to support their health. It’s essential to not only provide the herbs your customers are seeking but also to inform customers about the potential effects of herbal remedies.

Damiana is an excellent herb to have in your products and on your shelf, but you must supply your customers with knowledge of the herb’s potential effects. When customers ask about your products, it’s an excellent opportunity to educate and inform. Reading through our blog is a great place to start, but continued education, inquiry and observation are critical for customers who want to manage symptoms of difficult illnesses and ailments.

WHERE CAN I FIND HIGH-QUALITY DAMIANA?

If you’re thinking about adding damiana to your arsenal of herbs, Monterey Bay Herb Co. is the preferred destination for bulk herbs and spices. You can view our full selection or browse by your industry. If you ever have questions about our offerings, visit our contact page to get in touch with a knowledgeable team member who would be happy to answer them.

Disclaimer: Information and statements about the products on this site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease or for prescribing any medication. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.