How to use damiana: Everything you need to know

Max Sargent

Cannabis Journalist & Psychedelics Expert

Max Sargent

Last updated: 3 June 2025

Used for centuries in traditional Mexican herbalism, damiana is making a quiet comeback. It’s best known for helping with tension and libido, and for supporting general well-being. But how exactly should you use it? From brewing it as a tea to taking it in capsules or tinctures, there are several ways to add damiana to your routine.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to use damiana safely and effectively. We’ll explain its traditional and modern uses, potential health benefits, dosage guidelines, and possible side effects. You’ll also find out whether you can vape or smoke it, what form works best for different goals, and what to know before buying it.

Whether you’re curious about damiana tea, interested in its aphrodisiac properties, or just want to know the safest dose, this guide covers everything you need to get started.

Damiana | Turnera afrodisiaca

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Damiana | Turnera afrodisiaca

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What is damiana?

Damiana (Turnera diffusa) is a small shrub with yellow flowers and aromatic leaves. It grows in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. The plant has been used in folk holistic practices for generations and remains popular today, especially for its relaxing and libido-boosting effects.

Damiana’s active compounds include flavonoids, tannins, and volatile oils. These may influence the nervous system and hormone activity, though more research is needed to fully understand how it works.

Traditionally, damiana was made into tea or smoked for various purposes. Today, it's available in many forms—tea blends, tinctures, extracts, and capsules. It's commonly used for its soothing properties and to support mood, digestion, and sexual health.

A brief history of damiana

Damiana has been part of indigenous healing practices for hundreds of years. The Maya and Aztecs used it as a tonic, especially to enhance sexual function and treat feelings of stress or low energy. Spanish missionaries first recorded its use in the 1600s.

Today, it’s still used across Mexico and beyond, often in herbal mixtures aimed at boosting mood or libido. Its long history of use continues to influence modern herbal medicine and wellness trends.

Ways to use damiana

There are several ways to use damiana, depending on what you’re hoping to achieve. Some prefer brewing it as a tea, while others use tinctures or capsules for greater ease and more pronounced effects. Damiana can also be smoked or vaped, although this comes with unique risks.

Also, the form you choose may affect how quickly you notice its effects. For example, inhalation tends to act faster than teas or capsules.

Below, we’ll look at each method in more detail, along with preparation tips and dosage guidance.

Damiana tea

Brewing damiana tea is one of the most traditional and accessible ways to use it. Its flavour is earthy and subtle, often described as soothing. Tea allows the active compounds to be absorbed gradually through the digestive system.

How to make damiana tea:

• Add 1 gram (about ¼ teaspoon) of dried damiana leaves to a cup (250 ml) of hot water
• Steep for 10–15 minutes
• Strain before drinking

You can drink it plain or add honey, lemon, or a cinnamon stick to improve the flavour. It can also be blended with other herbs like passionflower or lemon balm for a tastier and more soothing concoction.

Recommended dosage and frequency:

• 1–3 cups (250–750 ml) per day
• Best taken in the evening if you're using it for relaxation or sleep

Too much tea can lead to mild side effects like upset stomach or insomnia in some people, so it’s best to start small.

Smoking or vaping damiana

Damiana can also be smoked, either on its own or mixed with other herbs. People often report gentle euphoria and a mild body sensation. However, any type of smoke inhalation can be harmful to lung health over time.

Damiana smoking effects:

• May produce mild, short-lived relaxation
• Often used as a tobacco substitute in herbal blends
• Some users report lightheadedness or increased sensitivity

Can you vape damiana?

Yes, you can vape dried damiana leaves using a dry herb vaporizer. Set the temperature to 175–190°C. Vaping might reduce some of the risks linked to smoke, but there’s not enough long-term data on its safety to confirm this.

Damiana tinctures and extracts

Tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts, often made using alcohol or glycerine. They’re more potent than teas and offer faster absorption, especially for mood support.

How to use damiana extract:

• Start with 2–3 ml (about half a teaspoon)
• Can be taken up to three times a day
• Drop under the tongue or dilute in a small amount of water

Because tinctures are stronger, they’re often preferred when you want more noticeable or immediate effects. Be cautious with dosing to avoid potential side effects.

Damiana supplements and capsules

Capsules and tablets are the most convenient option if you want a precise dose without the taste or prep work. They’re also easier to include in a daily routine.

Common over-the-counter forms contain:

• 400–800 mg damiana extract per capsule
• Often combined with other herbs in libido or mood formulas

How they compare to other forms:

• Longer to take effect than tinctures
• No flavour or scent, which some users prefer
• Useful for consistent dosing over time

Look for standardised extracts from trusted brands to ensure quality and potency.

Wellness benefits of damiana

As referenced, damiana has been used for centuries for its effects on sexual health, mood, and digestion. Most of the evidence is historical or anecdotal, though early research does support some of its traditional uses. While it’s not a replacement for medical treatment, it may offer mild benefits for general well-being.

Libido and aphrodisiac effects

Damiana is most widely known as a natural aphrodisiac. The Maya and Aztecs used it to stimulate sexual desire and improve performance. This reputation still holds today, and many modern supplements for sexual health include damiana as a key ingredient.

How it might work:

• It may support blood flow to sexual organs
• It could influence hormone activity or neurotransmitters linked to arousal
• Some report stronger orgasms and increased libido after regular use

A 2013 study on herbal combinations for sexual function found that damiana, among other herbs, improved sexual satisfaction in women (Estrada-Reyes et al.). However, more research is needed to isolate its specific effects.

Mood enhancement

Damiana is sometimes used to support emotional well-being, especially in times of stress or anxiety. It’s thought to have mild nervine effects, meaning it may help ease the nervous system.

Potential effects on mood:

• Promotes a relaxed, balanced state
• May ease mental tension
• Can be taken daily in moderate amounts

Preclinical studies suggest that damiana may act on the nervous system, which may in turn affect anxiety (Paladini et al., 1999). However, clinical trials are limited.

Other benefits

In traditional use, damiana has been applied for various physical complaints, especially those affecting the gut and urinary system.

Reported uses include:

• Soothing mild stomach upset or bloating
• Supporting urinary tract health
• Easing menstrual cramps

Again, most of these claims are based on folk use rather than hard scientific evidence. Still, some people find it helpful as a gentle tonic.

Damiana dosage and safety guidelines

When used correctly, damiana is generally safe for most adults. However, overuse or certain health conditions can increase the risk of side effects. Always start with a low dose, and check with a healthcare provider if you’re unsure.

General dosage recommendations:

• Tea: 1–3 cups per day, each made with 1 gram of dried leaves
• Tincture: 2–3 ml, up to three times daily
• Capsules: 400–800 mg, taken up to three times daily

Stick to the lower end of the range when starting out. Some people find that even small amounts are enough.

What are the side effects of damiana?

Damiana is well tolerated in moderate amounts, but side effects can appear if you take too much or use it too frequently.

Possible side effects:

• Insomnia
• Headaches
• Mild nausea or digestive upset
• Hallucinations (at extremely high doses—rare but documented)

Interactions and warnings:

• Avoid if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
• Damiana may interact with diabetes medications, as it can affect blood sugar levels
• Those with liver problems should avoid damiana tinctures made with alcohol
• If you're taking prescription medications, consult your GP or a pharmacist before using damiana

Buying and storing damiana

To get the best results, it’s worth choosing high-quality damiana from a reputable source. You can buy it online or in specialist health shops, either as loose dried leaves, capsules, or tinctures.

Where to buy damiana:

• Online retailers specialising in herbal products
• Organic or health food shops
• Supplement shops with botanical sections

Always check for third-party testing or organic certification where possible.

Storage tips:

• Keep dried leaves in a sealed container, away from heat and sunlight
• Store tinctures in a dark bottle in a cool place
• Capsules should be kept dry and away from direct light

Shelf life:

• Dried leaves: Around 1 year if stored properly
• Tinctures: Up to 2 years
• Capsules: Follow expiry date on the label

Damiana: Frequently asked questions

Try damiana with care and curiosity

Damiana is one of those herbs that’s easy to try and may offer a subtle lift—whether to your mood, your energy, or your sex life. Its long history of use, especially in Mexican folk practices, gives it a trusted place in natural health routines.

You don’t need to overdo it. Start with a cup of tea or a single supplement, see how your body responds, and go from there. With proper use, damiana can be a gentle, natural way to support relaxation and well-being.