Yohimbe (Pausinystalia yohimbe) is a tall evergreen tree, native to southwestern Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Congo. It is also called yohimbe bark as the bark of the tree is used for number of medicinal purposes. The alkaloid known as yohimbine is the primary active constituent in yohimbe. Dried bark or the extract of the bark is put into capsules and tablets. This article gives some of the uses and side effects of yohimbe.
Here are Few Uses of Yohimbe:
- Traditionally, yohimbe bark was used in western Africa for fevers, leprosy, and coughs. It was also used as local anesthesia.
- As the herb is proved to increase blood flow to the genitals and increase brain activity it is used as an aphrodisiac or a treatment for sexual dysfunction.
- It is used to help build muscle, reduce anxiety, elevate mood, and prevent heart attacks.
- As a potent stimulator of the central nervous system, it has been used to treat narcolepsy.
- The extracts of yohimbe increase fatty acid mobilization and decrease fat synthesis. Thus it used as an aid in weight loss.
- Yohimbe is popular with bodybuilders. By stimulating the production of testosterone, it can help build muscle mass.
Side Effects and Cautions:
- Some of the observed side effects of yohimbe include high blood pressure, increased heart rate, headache, anxiety, dizziness, and sleeplessness. It can dangerous if taken in large doses or for long periods of time.
- People with heart problems, high blood pressure, anxiety or psychiatric problems, kidney disease, those who are pregnant should not take yohimbe.
- Yohimbe has interactions with MAO inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants or phenothiazines. People using these drugs should not take yohimbe.
- It should not be taken in conjunction with tyramine and tyramine containing substances such as cheese, liver, red wine, chocolate, beer, nuts, aged or smoked meats, sauerkraut, and yeast.
- It is best to take yohimbe under the guidance of a registered medical practitioner to ensure coordinated and safe care.
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