Damiana

Damiana herb (Turnera diffusa) consists of the dried leaves of a bush which grows in the tropical areas of America.
Aztecs used it as a remedy against impotence. The Mayas used it for pleasure and other Indian tribes used the tea for medicinal purposes. Thus it is a herb with many qualities and possible applications.

The psychoactive effect is sometimes compared with the 'high' of cannabis.

Effects

Damiana is a sexual stimulant. It stimulates blood circulation and increases the metabolism. It contains compounds that directly stimulate the nerves and genitals.

Damiana has a relaxing effect, gives a mild cannabis-like high and is a mild but effective aphrodisiac. This effect lasts for one to two hours. When used regularly for a longer period of time damiana increases potency and helps to restore the hormonal balance in women.

Damiana is a muscle relaxer. As a medicinal plant it is used against fatigue, exhaustion, hormonal disorders and congestions.

Usage

To make tea out of damiana herb, mix 10 to 15 grams (½ oz.) with 1 litre of water. Let this boil gently for 5 minutes, then cool it, sift it and drink a few cups.

To make damiana liquor, mix 30 grams (1 oz.) of damiana herb with half a litre liquor (Vodka) and let this soak for 5 days. Sift it and let the alcohol drenched leaves soak another 5 days in 125 ml of mineral water. Strain out the liquid and filter it. Heat the water extract until just under the boiling point and mix it with half a cup of honey. Mix the alcohol extract and the water extract in a bottle and keep for a month. The mix will sink down and the liquid will become clearer. Pour the liquid carefully in a clean bottle. For the best results take 1 or 2 glasses about an hour before the desired effect.

To use the damiana powder, mix one teaspoon with water, juice, yoghurt or custord.

Warning

Although not proven, exuberant use of damiana could lead to to liver damage.

Links

A page with information about damiana. In short a description, its medical properties and recipes.
Erowid about damiana. A general description and some information about the (ritual) use and dosage.

Reviews

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Jul 10, 2008 Vincent said:
 
“I tried smoking it as cannabis alternative but it just made me restless. For cannabis substitute I recommend catmint instead, THAT gives a relaxing high.”

Jun 26, 2008 Fates said:
    
“I first smoked some Damiana with a friend of mine and he said it created some buzz comparable to marijuana. It was a soothing experience and I bought my own bag of Damiana a few days ago.

I must say that it's not a marijuana-like high, but very relaxing nonetheless. At the moment I'm smoking my second Damiana joint of the day and I must say I like it a lot. You don't get stoned, you're still able to function normally, but it makes me really mellow. I like the herbal taste a lot and it's smooth on the lungs. Definitely worth your buck.”

Apr 14, 2008 SpanishFlea said:
   
“I bought Damiana some time ago and smoked it solely by itself for the most part, and on occasion with cannabis. The taste was pleasant, unless you cough while inhaling. For the love of god, don't cough. It's probably one of the worst tastes ever, next to making dream herb tea. I found it had a mildly relaxing effect, and never having smoked a cigarette, I couldn't compare it to tobacco for you. But as previously stated, considering the price it is worth the buy. I had a half ounce about a year ago, and I still have a little in the bag.”