Who among us doesn’t want to be healthy? Plants and herbs are a safe and effective way of achieving our goals, as they already play an important role in our lives and have done since ancient times. They’re also affordable, which is an additional perk. Damiana is one of these plants, and its leaves, stem, flowers, fruit and shrub are all used to make attainable and cost-effective medicine. This is definitely a plant to value. Keep reading this article to learn more about its different health benefits.
What is Damiana?
Damiana comes from a distinctly small, woody shrub which bears small, aromatic flowers. Its leaves are yellow-brown, and every summer it bears fruit that tastes similar to figs. The shrub is known as a strong spice, similar to chamomile, because of its essential oils.
Damiana is native to the United States, Caribbean, Mexico, Central America and South America. It is a close relative of the Passifloraceae, a flowering plant.
Uses of Damiana
There are many benefits offered by damiana that people don’t know about, including:
- Both the stem and leaf are valuable in making medicine.
- It is used to increase the sexual desire of men and women.
- Damiana is a traditional ingredient in Mexican liqueur.
- It has the ability to treat bedwetting, headaches and a nervous stomach.
- It is very useful for treating mild depression, relieving asthma and controlling nervousness and anxiety.
- It’s also good for handling constipation and enhancing digestion.
- The fragrant leaves are used to make tea.
Health Benefits of Damiana
Damiana isn’t just a plant. It has properties which are good for your overall health, including:
- Anti-Cancer Properties – Damiana is like a toxin to cancer cells, affecting nasopharynx, breast cancer and human hepatoma. It can inhibit cancer growth by up to 31.3%.
- Anti-Depressant and Anti-Anxiety Properties – Damiana has the ability to enhance sexual performance and reduce anxiety. Damiana contains apigenin properties, which can provide relaxation, and the plant also has anti-stress and anti-depressant effects. It contains similar properties to marijuana, sometimes producing hallucinogenic and euphoric effects.
- Assists the Muscular System – Ingesting a high dosage of damiana can help ease muscle spasms, relaxing the muscles and easing pain.
- Defends Against Diabetes – Damiana contains a property to treat Type 2 Diabetes, helping control blood sugar and protecting against hyperglycemia.
- Grows Sexual Vitality – Damiana acts as an aphrodisiac, which helps men to ejaculate and increases testosterone. In women, Damiana helps boost sexual function after menopause, and it can help with fertility.
- Helps with Obesity – Damiana contains guarana and yerba mate. When combined with resveratrol or inulin, it helps with weight loss.
- Increases Energy – Damiana has a great stimulant effect, but unlike other plants, it has no caffeine. A low dosage of it might be more soothing.
- Shields the Liver and Kidneys – Damiana is responsible for helping kidney function and treating bladder infections due to its diuretic effect. It reduces oxidative stress.
Safety Concerns About Damiana
Damiana is likely safe to ingest when mixed with food or used for medicinal purposes. However, you should always discuss any dietary changes with your doctor, as consuming large amounts could cause some side effects or interfere with existing medications. A few special precautions should be taken if you are:
Breast Feeding or Pregnant: There is no reliable research surrounding the consumption of damiana, but it’s advised to avoid consuming it. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Diabetic: Damiana can affect blood sugar levels in people suffering from diabetes. It is recommended that you monitor your blood sugar levels while consuming it.
Approaching or Recovering from Surgery: Because damiana may also affect blood glucose levels, it’s recommended that you stop using or consuming it 1-2 weeks before your surgery.
