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Herbs > Yohimbe
Its botanical name 'Pausinystalia yohimbe Pierre' (formerly Corynanthe yohimbe) is a member of the
family Rubiaceae (Madder family). It is an evergreen tree which grows to a height of 15
meters and is native to Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Congo. The bark of the tree
is harvested during the rainy season from May to September, when its alkaloid
content is highest, however it has become so
popular as an aphrodisiac that some researchers and botanists believe that the yohimbe tree may be endangered
due to over-harvesting.
The bark of the yohimbe tree has
traditionally been used by west Africans for a variety of conditions
including fever, cough, as an aphrodisiac, to dilate pupils, prevent heart
disease, hallucinogen, help leprosy and it may even be an effective aesthetic.
There are 31 alkaloids found
in Yohimbe bark and the main active constituent is the alkaloid yohimbine, although
yohimbe bark also contains other important alkaloids. Yohimbine
blocks alpha-2 adrenergic receptors which are part of the sympathetic nervous
system. It has also been reported that yohimbine dilates blood vessels and may
even inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO), whereby preventing a number of depressive
disorders. However, unlike St. John's wort and other popular herbs, yohimbe does
not have the research to support its medicinal claims.
A product to avoid
According to the Mayo Clinic, yohimbine can be dangerous if used in excessive
amounts as higher doses of oral yohimbine may create numerous side effects such as rapid
heart rate, high blood pressure, and over stimulation. may produce
anxiety and is thought to cause insomnia and sleeplessness in some users.
People with kidney disease, stomach ulcers,
post-traumatic stress disorder or panic disorder, pregnant or nursing women
should avoid yohimbine. Als as yohimbe blocks the enzyme monoamine oxidase, people taking yohimbe must
avoid all tyramine-containing foods (e.g., liver, cheeses, red wine) and
over-the-counter products that contain the ingredient phenylpropanolamine, such
as nasal decongestants.
Growing Yohimbe
The seed is rare though the tree may grow from root cuttings and it takes years
to grow to a harvestable size, so its not a practicable option for the home
gardener, rather a commercial option for an enterprising farmer who will find a
ready market.
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