Yohimbe
Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Yohimbe

Yohimbe is an evergreen tree native to West Africa. It has a compound called yohimbine in its bark, which is used to make extracts and more.

Share this Post

In some areas of Africa, a tea made from the bark has been used as an aphrodisiac. It has been used as a supplement for impotence, athletic performance, weight loss, chest pain, high blood pressure, diabetic neuropathy and more.

Yohimbine hydrochloride, a standardized form of yohimbine, is available in the United States as a prescription drug used for erectile dysfunction.

› Health Benefits

There has been very little research on the effects of yohimbe as a dietary supplement. Some studies have documented the risks of taking it.

› How much do I need?

The dosage varies depending on age and what it is being used for. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels, and consult your pharmacist, physician or other healthcare professional before using.

Yohimbe has been associated with heart attacks and seizures. It has also caused stomach problems, tachycardia, anxiety and high blood pressure, according to a study comparing calls about yohimbe and other substances made to the California Poison Control System between 2000 and 2006.

› Dietary supplements

Yohimbe can be found in the form of tablets, capsules and extracts.


Source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

Please consult your health care provider before making changes to your vitamin/supplement regimen.

Share this Post

Comments

Leave a Reply