Condition
Treatment Support
stimulant
Application
tea, tincture
Yohimbe
(Pausinystalia yohimbe)
Botanical Information
A tall evergreen tree with large, leathery leaves and white flowers arranged in umbels at the ends of the shoots.
Working with Yohimbe
Part(s) Used
Bark
Herb Forms
Tincture, bulk herb, powder
Christopher Hobbs:
“Is it herbal Viagra? Yohimbe has a long-standing reputation as an aphrodisiac, and it is a nervous system stimulant, excitant, and blood flow regulator to the penis. Studies show it actually does help some men to have, and maintain, an erection. The herb does not work for everybody, and because of its side effects, should be used cautiously. A modified constituent from the bark, yohimbine hydrochloride, is prescribed by doctors occasionally.
Yohimbe has a taste of BITTER and a temperature of COOL.”
Yohimbe is a tree native to Central and West Africa, and its bark has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for centuries. Historically, it was used as an aphrodisiac, to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), and to enhance athletic performance.
Modern Clinical Uses
- Herbalists and Naturopaths: Yohimbe is often used to treat ED, low libido, and as a stimulant for weight loss. It is also used in traditional medicine for improving circulation and as a mood enhancer.
- Chemistry: The active compound in yohimbe is yohimbine, an alkaloid that blocks alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which can increase the release of norepinephrine and improve blood flow. Yohimbine is used for its stimulant effects and potential fat-burning properties.
- Pharmacology: Yohimbine has been studied for its effects on the central nervous system, where it acts as an antagonist to alpha-2 receptors, increasing the levels of norepinephrine, which can lead to enhanced fat loss and sexual function.
Clinical Trials
- Erectile Dysfunction: Some clinical studies suggest yohimbine can improve erectile function in men with ED, but the results are mixed, with some trials showing only modest effects.
- Weight Loss: Research on yohimbine for fat loss has been inconclusive, with some studies indicating a small benefit in fat loss when combined with exercise and a calorie-restricted diet.
- Safety Concerns: Some trials have highlighted the risk of serious side effects, especially at higher doses, leading to caution in its use for long-term treatment or for individuals with underlying health conditions.
In conclusion, while yohimbe and yohimbine may offer benefits for specific health conditions like ED and weight loss, the potential risks and side effects must be carefully considered. More research is needed to fully understand its safety and efficacy across different populations.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
Adverse Effects: Yohimbe can cause significant side effects, including anxiety, increased blood pressure, tachycardia, dizziness, nausea, and headaches. These effects can be especially concerning for individuals with heart conditions or anxiety disorders.
Interactions: This herb contains the alkaloid, yohimbine, which is a central nervous system stimulant. It may interact with medications like antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and stimulants.
Contraindications: Should be avoided in individuals with hypertension, heart disease, or psychiatric conditions.
The standard dose of yohimbine for ED treatment is typically around 5-10 mg of yohimbine HCl per day, though herbal preparations may vary in concentration. It is important to start with a low dose to assess tolerance, as higher doses can increase the risk of side effects.
Conditions treated with Yohimbe
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
stimulant
Application
tincture, tea
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
