Damiana - what's it for?

[matt_mcl]

I found a few hundred grams of an herb called damiana, that apparently dates to the Evil Ex-Roommate era. Any idea what it’s used for?

[cher3]

Supplement Watch says it’s supposed to be an aphrodisiac, among other things:
http://www.supplementwatch.com/supatoz/supplement.asp?supplementId=97

[Larry_Mudd]

I had an ex-girlfriend who fed me a tincture of Damiana, Saw Palmetto, and a coupla other herbs every morning.

Anecdotally, I’d say I think there may be something in it, comparing the frequency and duration of, uh, [stares at feet] with typical experiences before and since then. Even going back to the old salad days.

Good lord.

[matt_mcl]

Here’s what I found about its safety:

Damiana appears to be safe for nursing moms at the recommended dosages. It is on the FDA’s GRAS (generally recognized as safe) list and is widely used as a food flavoring. However, because damiana contains low levels of cyanide-like compounds*, excessive doses may be dangerous. The only common side effect of damiana is occasional mild gastrointestinal distress. Excessive amounts can cause insomnia and headaches, and excessive long term use may be toxic to the liver. Do not use if you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome.

(*Sounds scary, but I notice that the seeds of the entire rose family - including apples, apricots, plums, peaches, cherries, and almonds - also contain cyanide precursors, which in normal doses are excreted from the body without ill effect. Also sprach Cecil.)