Damiana Herb (Turnera Diffusa)
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mars, Pluto
Element: Fire
Folk Names: nil
Parts Used: Leaves
Damianas scientific name is Turnera diffusa and it is from the Passilroaceae family. Damiana produces small aromatic flowers with a spicy odor much like chamomile.
The History of Damiana
The ancient Mayan Civilization in Mexico and Central America used Damiana as a traditional aphrodisiac. The first record of Damiana reaching the western world was by a Spanish missionary in 1699.
Culinary Uses
Damiana is commonly used in an infusion with other herbs to make tea. To make a tea add 250ml of water to one gram of dried damiana leaves, allow 10 minutes to infuse and then strain add a little honey for sweetness and drink. Damiana can also be used as a herbal tincture.
Damiana is the main ingredient in a Mexican tradition liqueur that is often used to replace triple sec in margaritas.
In the 19th century damiana was used in patents such as Pemberton’s French Wine Coca and the leaves were later omitted from the non-alcoholic version known as Coca-Cola.
Medicinal Uses
In todays cultures all around the world this herb is still used as a tonic and aphrodisiac. The tonic effect that damiana causes is useful for people who suffer from mild depression anxiety and long term nervous exhaustion.
Not only is damiana a potent aphrodisiac, it also has a restorative effect on the reproductive organs of both sexes. Damiana is often used to help men with conditions such as premature ejaculation and long term impotence. Woman are often prescribed damiana for painful cramping during periods and headaches caused by menstruation.
The chemical compound arbutin gives damiana diuretic and urinary antiseptic properties making it excellent for treating urinary infections.
Damiana is also a mild laxative which is very effective in the treatment of long term constipation cause by low muscle tone in the bowl.
Magickal Uses Of Damiana
Known as the herb of love, it is a sexual stimulant that increases arousal. It is said if you sprinkle damiana on the food of the one you love it is said to increase their desire.
Used as a bath infusion it is said to attract new love and carrying damiana in a mojo bag will return a lost lover back to you.
Burning damiana as an incense for meditation will help to open the chakras, increase psychic dreaming, perform activities such as astral travel and spirit quests. Storing with a quartz crystal before burning will increases psychic ability and clairvoyance.
Warnings
Damiana can cause severe side effects when taken in large doses. Damiana can also affect blood sugar levels so should be taken with caution by those who have diabetes.
We have listed known warnings about this plant. These warnings are a guide only and although some magical herbs are safe in small quantities they can be poisonous in large doses or if used incorrectly. If you are not experienced in herbs the rule to stick by is “when in doubt….don’t risk it”.
References: “Wikipedia.org”. Turnera diffusa. Retrieved 15/03/2016, “Herbs2000.com”. Diamiana. Retrieved 15/03/2016, “WebMD.com”. Damiana. Retrieved 15/03/2016, Cunningham, Scott. Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs. Llewellyn Publications; 1st edition (October 1985). Print.
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