Damiana

Turnera diffusa – Family: Turneraceae

What is Damiana & where is it found?

Damiana is a shrub native to Texas, Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Leaves and stems are typically used in preparations, but all aerial (above ground) parts are considered medicinal.

How is it sold?

Damiana can be found and bought dried, in tea blends, tincture (alcohol extract), and as apart of herbal smoke blends.

Damiana Preparations

Tea

• Short infusion: Pour boiling water over herb. Cover and let infuse for 10-30 minutes. I usually let it infuse for 15-20 minutes. I find when the tea is hot it tastes more aromatic and pungent, and as it cools the bitter flavor comes out more. Steeping time can also affect taste.

Tincture

• Alcohol extract: Cover herb in high percentage alcohol. Let sit for a month. Shake every day. Strain and label.

Smoke Blend

• Smoke: Damiana was traditionally and still is enjoyed today as apart of smoke blends. It can be smoked pure from pipes and cigarettes or can be added to a blend.

Wine

• Wine infusion: Damiana is often enjoyed infused into red wine. Pour bottle of wine over damiana in a mason jar. Let infuse for around a week. Best if shaken every day. Strain and enjoy. This can be a fun way to experiment with damiana for its aphrodisiac & creativity effects.

Contraindications

Generally regarded as safe. Talk to doctor before taking if diabetic or on insulin because it may lower blood sugar levels. Talk to doctor before taking if pregnant or breastfeeding.