Damiana

Damiana is an herbal remedy used as an aphrodisiac and as a treatment for conditions ranging from headaches to sexual problems. It is not clear how the supplement works to treat these conditions, or if it is even effective for such uses. Damiana is available as a liquor, as capsules, as an extract, and in leaf form. Side effects may occur, but none are currently known.

 

What Is Damiana?

Damiana is a shrub native to Central and South America. The leaves and stems of the damiana plant are used as an herbal remedy and are also used recreationally (either smoked or in a liquor). Damiana is said to be useful as an aphrodisiac and as a treatment for many different conditions, such as depression, headaches, and various sexual problems.
 
(Click Benefits of Damiana for more information, including additional damiana uses.)
 

How Does Damiana Work?

It is not known how damiana may work, either for recreational use (to achieve a mild "high") or for medicinal uses.
 

Is Damiana Effective?

There is not enough scientific evidence to evaluate the effectiveness of damiana for any use.
 
(Click Does Damiana Work? for more information.)
 

Dosing Information for Damiana

A safe and effective damiana dose has not been established. Damiana is available in several different forms, such as liquor, leaves, extracts, and capsules, and the directions may vary for different products. Be sure to follow the specific dosing instructions for your particular damiana product.
 
(Click Damiana Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Damiana

Currently, it is not known what side effects (if any) to expect from damiana.
 
(Click Damiana Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions With Damiana

Damiana could potentially interact with a few medications (see Damiana Drug Interactions).
 

Is Damiana Safe?

Some people may be more likely to experience problems with damiana than others. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking it if you have:
 
  • Liver disease, such as liver failure, cirrhosis, or hepatitis
  • Diabetes
  • Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
  • Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Damiana Safety for more information, including any available warnings and precautions with damiana.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose of Damiana?

It is not known what exactly to expect from an overdose of damiana, although dangerous effects could occur. If you think you may have taken too much, seek immediate medical attention.
 
(Click Damiana Overdose for more information.)
 

How Should Damiana Be Stored?

Refer to the label of your individual damiana product for information on how best to store it. Keep damiana and all other medications or supplements out of the reach of children.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;