Ingredients
Damiana
LATIN NAME:
Turnera Aphrodisiaca
COMMON NAME:
Damiana
LOCATION:
Mexico, Texas, South America, Caribbean
DESCRIPTION:
A small shrub that produces yellow, aromatic flowers, the spice-like aroma of Damiana has been compared to chamomile. Damiana is a popular ingredient in traditional Mexican liquor, such as triple sec, often used in making margaritas. It is most commonly used as an aphrodisiac but can also treat headache, depression, and nervous stomach symptoms such as constipation. Both for medicinal and non-medicinal reasons, some people inhale the herb for a slight “high”.
Mexican folklore claims that Damiana was used in the world’s very first margarita.
TRADITIONAL APOTHECARY:
The Damiana herb is used to treat asthma, dizziness, vertigo, and female ailments. It is also considered excellent at restoring energy levels and fighting fatigue. Unsurprisingly, it also has a reputation as a strong tonic for treating and arousing sexual desire – hence the Latin ‘aphrodisiaca’ name. It even has positive reproductive qualities, and is known to increase sperm count in men. It is also smoked, in some instances, for a high similar to cannabis, which aids in the relief of stress and anxiety.
SOURCES:
The Herb Prof
WebMD