Damiana -Turnera aphrodisiaca- Loose Herbs

HISTORY OF USE Damiana is native to southern climates, and has an ancient use to increase sexual vitality. The ancient Mayan civilization eased loss of balance with this herb also. TEA BLENDS Blends well with lemon balm. CULINARY USE Damiana leaves have a lemony scent that lasts faintly when dried. The fruits have a taste similar to figs. This herb is the primary flavoring in the Guadalajara liqueur called Damiana and is used in margaritas. Mexican indigenous people made a drink from the damiana leaves, added sugar, and drank it for its lovemaking power. FLAVOR & ENERGETICS Bitter, aromatic, flowery, resinous CONSTITUENTS Volatile oil, alkaloids, flavonoids, cyanogenic glycoside, tannins, resin, damianin HERBAL ACTIONS Aphrodisiac, stimulating nervine, spinal trophorestorative, diuretic, tonic, antidepressant, mild laxative, astringent, expectorant CAUTIONS Generally recognized as safe by the FDA and is widely used as a food flavoring. Low levels of cyanide-like compounds are present in damiana so excessive doses are not recommended. A common mild side effect of damiana consists of some slight gastrointestinal distress. Damiana can lower blood sugar so people with Type 1 Diabetes should use this herb with caution. Pregnant women should not use damiana.