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 Source:
Damiana (Turnera aphrodisiaca) - is found throughout Mexico, Central
America and the Caribbean. Damiana is heavily branched herb that
reaches a height over six feet. The stems are reddish-brown in color
and have a smooth texture. The herb has small leaves and occasionally
produces small, yellow flowers. The medicinal part is the leaves.
Traditional uses:
Damina's latin name suggests its use as an aphrodisiac. The
ancient Mayans used Damiana for loss of balance, for an aphrodisiac
properties and gynecological symptoms.
Physiology:
Damiana also has the ability to weekly bind to progesterone receptors.
Progesterone is a steroid hormone produced primarily by the ovaries
and adrenal glands. Progesterone has a direct affect on the function
of the reproductive system, the cardiovascular system, the nervous
system and the skeletal system, blood sugar levels, skin and other
tissues, etc.
Though proper progesterone levels are critical for the prevention
of endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial cancer, the actions of
this hormone extend far beyond endometrial health. Therefore it
is crucial that proper levels also be maintained in women who have
had a hysterectomy.
Clinical
Studies:
The majority of the research has been concerned with the
volatile oil of Damiana, extracts from this oil have been shown
to weakly bind to progesterone receptors. This is the basis for
the many positive effects of the herb on breast enhancement and
relieving the symptoms PMS. Zava DT, Dollbaum CM, Blen M. Estrogen
and progestin bioactivity of foods, herbs, and spices. Proc Soc
Exp Biol Med 1998;217:369–78.
Modern day
uses:
Today the herb is prescribed by physicians and herbal specialists
for the following:
- Breast enhancement - Damiana
works synergistically with other herbs as breast enhancement supplement.
- Libido enhancement - the
herb increases the sex drive in both men and women
- Bronchitis - provide relief
form the cough and phlegm associated with bronchitis and emphysema
- Parkinson's disease - the
herb is used to decrease the tremors associate with Parkinsons
disease
- Menopause - helps to relieve
the symptoms, including hot flashes.
- PMS - helps to alleviate
the effects of PMS
- Antidepressant - acts as
a mood enhancer that gives individuals a feeling of happiness
and well-being.
Precautions and/or adverse effects:
Individuals with preexisting medical conditions should consult with
their physician particularly if they are taking prescription or
over-the-counter-medications or supplements. Women who are pregnant
or breast feeding and children should also consult with there physician
prior to taking any new supplements. Although rare, allergic reactions
to Damiana may occur. Individuals should stop taking Damiana and
seek emergency medical attention if they experience symptoms of
a serious allergic reaction including hives, closing of your throat,
difficult breathing, swelling of your lips, tongue, or face (return
to homepage).
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