The “Physicians’ Desk Reference for Herbal Medicines” lists damiana leaf as a herbal supplement useful for enhancing libido, relaxation, and aiding in weight loss.
How Does Damiana Work?
Damiana has a complex chemical composition, featuring compounds such as α-pinene, β-carotene, β-pinene, eucalyptol, tannins, and thymol. One key compound, damianin, is essential to the plant’s structure and is known to have a relaxing effect on the central nervous system. Additionally, damiana has been found to have a hypoglycemic effect, sparking interest in its potential use for diabetic and weight loss therapies.
Some researchers believe damiana may act as an aromatase inhibitor. A study conducted in 2008 by the School of Pharmacy at the University of Mississippi explored the anti-aromatase and estrogenic activity of damiana. The study evaluated compounds extracted from the leaves for their aromatase activity using a tritiated-water release assay, and for their estrogenic activity using a yeast estrogen screen assay. The findings revealed that damiana extract and compounds like pinocembrin and acacetin decreased aromatase activity. Other compounds, such as Apigenin 7-glucoside, Z-echinacin, and pinocembrin, exhibited estrogenic activity.
Damiana & Weight Loss
Damiana encourages loose stools, which may assist in internal cleansing. However, it has drawn significant attention when combined with other plants to promote thermogenic activity.
A study from Denmark in 2001 found that, when combined with guarana and yerba mate, damiana contributed to appetite suppression and thermogenic effects. Over 45 days, overweight participants took the combination in capsule form before a main meal. The study showed that this combination significantly delayed gastric emptying, extended the time participants felt full, and resulted in notable weight loss.
Moreover, damiana’s mood-enhancing effects, coupled with its appetite-suppressant properties, may provide situational relief for those who overeat, especially due to emotional comfort.
The effectiveness of damiana for mood enhancement and thermogenic response has led to several patents for oral appetite suppressant supplements that include damiana.
You can find damiana in health food and supplement stores in various forms, including tea blends, capsules, extracts, tablets, and tinctures. It has proven most effective when used in combination with other plants and herbs for sexual potency, weight loss, mood improvement, and overall systemic function.
