Benefits of Yohimbe Bark: Learn About the Uses, Side Effects and More
Yohimbe
Yohimbe is an evergreen tree (Pausinystalia yohimbe) native to Nigeria, Cameroon and Congo. It slightly resembles the oak tree and grows about 100 feet tall. The bark, about 1/3 of an inch thick and the part used for medicinal purposes, is harvested during the rainy season (when its benefits are best) from May to September. Yohimbe bark has been used since ancient times, particularly among the Bantu people, as an aphrodisiac.
Health Benefits
Erectile Dysfunction
Yohimbine, a substance in yohimbe bark, was isolated by a German chemist in the late 19th century. Today, yohimbine (and other ingredients) is used in a prescribed medication called Yohimbine hydrochloride, which is used to treat erectile dysfunction. Yohimbine is said to dilate blood vessels which helps a man achieve an erection. Multiple human trials have shown the drug to be effective but no studies have been done on the herb.
Libido
Yohimbine is believed to increase libido in females. More research is needed.
Sexual Side Effects of Antidepressants
The drug Yohimbine hydrochloride is thought to treat sexual dysfunction related to SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) antidepressants. Research is limited.
Other
Yohimbine is also believed to improve orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure occurring when standing up), inhibit platelet aggregation and treat dry mouth caused by drugs like antidepressants.
Side Effects
Yohimbe side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, increased urination and insomnia.
Safety
Large doses of yohimbe is highly toxic. There have been a number of reports in the United States of kidney failure and seizures following use.
Prolonged use can be dangerous.
Pregnant women should avoid taking yohimbe because it may possibly cause a miscarriage or birth defects.
Women breastfeeding and children should avoid taking because it may cause anxiety disorders.
People with blood pressure problems, depression or other psychiatric condition, kidney or liver disease, prostate problems, heart problems and Alzheimer’s disease should avoid taking yohimbe because it may aggravate these conditions.
People taking medications should speak with their healthcare provider before taking.
Typical Preparations
The following are typical preparations when getting the benefits of yohimbe:
Tincture
The common dosage is 5-10 drops three times a day. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Tea
Boil about 6 teaspoons of inner bark shavings in 1 pint of water for roughly 10 minutes, strain and sweeten.
Do not take yohimbe with tyramine-rich foods, such as cured meats, aged cheeses and wine.
References
Entheology: Yohimbe - https://www.entheology.org/edoto/anmviewer.asp?a=284&print=yes
Medline Plus: Yohimbe bark extract (Pausinystalia yohimbe Pierre ex Beille Rubiaceae) - https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/patient-yohimbe.html
GNC: Yohimbe - https://gnc.webmd.com/yohimbe
Herbs 2000: Yohimbe - https://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_yohimbe.htm
Image courtesy of https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Yohimbine.png
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