In herbal medicine, damiana is used to treat conditions ranging from coughs to constipation to depression. The herbal supplement is reputed to help with Fibromyalgia, energy, emphysema, low estrogen, frigidity, hot flashes, impotency, infertility, menopause, Parkinson's disease, PMS, inflammation of prostate, Lou Gehrig's disease, and more dealing with reproductive organs in both males and females.
Damiana can also be smoked, whereby the effects have been reported as somewhat similar to tobacco products yet milder and more relaxing.In some places in Australia, Damiana is used as an alternative to tobacco to be smoked with. Damiana supposedly has a synergistic effect with Passionflower which when smoked in a combination has been said to be extremely relaxing and promotes sleep. Damiana has been included as an ingredient in herbal cigarettes.
Believed to be an overall body tonic, Damiana affects the nervous system, acting as an anti-depressant. It sooths anxiety, nervousness and mild depression, and promotes a general feeling of well-being. Damiana also stimulates circulation which raises energy levels to alleviate fatigue and stimulate weight loss.
Other known uses for Damiana are:
- Soothing headaches caused by menstruation
- The thinning of fluids resulting from asthma, colds and flu
- Strengthening of the nervous and hormonal systems
Damiana is a commoly added ingredient to smoking mixtures and herbal tea blends. When smoked or drunk as a tea, it has a relaxing effect not unlike low doses of cannabis. Damiana has an ancient reputation as an aphrodisiac to increase and stimulate sexual appetite.
*Not for human consumption.