Does Yohimbe Work as an Aphrodisiac or to Lose Weight?

Does yohimbe really work for weight loss, bodybuilding and sexual performance? The use of yohimbe has been validated for erectile dysfunction, libido and fat loss, but results are mixed for bodybuilding.

The bark of the yohimbe tree has long been recognized for its medicinal properties. It contains the active alkaloid yohimbine, which has been used for a number of purposes, ranging from the treatment of phobias to sexual dysfunction caused by SSRIs.

Yohimbine has a stimulating effect on the body, boosting the metabolism of fat and increasing norepinephrine levels in the blood. It also dilates blood vessels and increases blood pressure in the genitals, which can have a proerectile effect.

However, because of the way that yohimbe works, it is not safe for everyone to use. Side effects associated with this supplement include abdominal discomfort, over-stimulation, irritability, anxiety and more serious adverse cardiovascular effects.

Yohimbine

Herbal Supplement

Weight Loss

Energy

Libido

How It Works:

• Helps promote fat loss
• Increases energy & suppresses appetite
• Promotes sex drive & performance

Dosage:

Between 5-50 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Unsafe

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How Does Yohimbe Work?

Yohimbine makes up approximately 10 to 15 percent of all indole alkaloids in yohimbe bark extract. It is the primary active ingredient in yohimbe supplements.

This alkaloid works as a pre-synaptic alpha-2 adrenoceptor antagonist. Yohimbine causes greater activity in presynaptic adrenoceptors, which enhances many of its actions.

This means that taking yohimbine blocks receptors on cells in the body that regulate the level of stimulatory neurotransmitters released in the body.

Normally, these receptors respond to higher levels of norepinephrine detected by slowing down its rate of release. However, when alpha-2 adrenoceptors are inhibited, this normal feedback loop is interrupted, causing more norepinephrine to be released.

It acts on the many alpha-adrenoceptors located throughout the body’s peripheral and central nervous systems, producing a range of psychic and autonomic effects.

Some of the ways that yohimbe extract works can result in increased fat loss, heightened mental energy and focus, improved sex drive and performance, as well as increased circulation throughout the body.

How Does Yohimbe Work for Weight Loss?

Yohimbe is commonly used as a fat burning supplement. Studies have shown that yohimbine is capable of inducing lipid mobilization in obese individuals.

This lipid mobilization may lead to weight loss, especially when combined with exercise and changes in diet.

Other studies have shown that consumption of yohimbine leads to a reduction in fat mass among both obese and lean individuals.

In one study, yohimbine was found to reduce body fat percentages when given to competitive soccer players. Individuals in the treatment group were given 10 mg of yohimbine twice per day for 21 days.

At the end of the trial, the group given the supplement saw an average decrease in body fat from 9.3% to 7.1%. Those given a placebo did not experience a significant change in body fat composition.

Yohimbe also works to supress the appetite and boost physical energy levels. Both of these effects could also support weight loss results. However, due to the potential side effects, it is not appropriate for everyone.

Does Yohimbe Work for ED?

Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is a condition characterized by the inability to achieve or maintain erection.

Yohimbe has long been used for the purpose of improving the symptoms of this condition. As a result, many people ask “Does yohimbe work like Viagara?”

While yohimbe doesn’t work exactly like Viagra, it can improve the symptoms of erectile dysfunction.

Studies have shown that yohimbine dilates the blood vessels in the genital region, increases reflex excitability in the sacral region of the spinal cord and facilitates nerve impulse transmission to genital tissue.

In men, yohimbine also increases penile blood flow. All of these effects combine to improve the man’s ability to achieve a strong erection and maintain it throughout sexual intercourse.

According to studies, yohimbine is most effective for treating ED in men with organic vascular dysfunction.

Yohimbe is also used as a natural aphrodisiac and to boost female libido. Studies have found it can improve sex drive, especially in individuals prescribed SSRI medications, which often have a negative effect on sex drive.

Does Yohimbe Work for Bodybuilding?

Yohimbe, especially in the form of a powder, is often used as a body building supplement.

Unfortunately, few research studies have been performed to explore this possible use of yohimbe supplements for increasing muscle mass or athletic performance.

However, yohimbine’s ability to increase lipid mobilization aids in the reduction of fat content among individuals of all sizes, which may facilitate body building cutting cycles.

In addition, many users claim that yohimbe has improved their performance during workouts and aided in their ability to accumulate muscle mass. It is sometimes used as a pre-workout supplement.

Nonetheless, it should be noted that the limited studies performed regarding yohimbine and the accumulation of lean muscle mass have been inconclusive.

Taking Yohimbe Supplements

You can take yohimbe supplements in the form of a pill, powder or tea. The amount of yohimbe you should consume is heavily dependent on your intended use, your history with yohimbe and the amount of active ingredient in the supplement you are using.

Below are some general dosage guidelines used in research studies on yohimbine. Note that the doses here are given in milligrams of active yohimbine, and not raw yohimbe bark extract:

• Orgasm improvement – 20 to 50 mg of yohimbine HCL daily in divided doses.
• Erectile dysfunction – 5 to 100 mg of yohimbine HCL daily in up to 4 divided doses.
• Depression – 5 to 30 mg of yohimbine HCL daily.
• Sexual dysfunction – 15 to 18 mg of yohimbine HCL daily.
• Orthostatic hypotension – 5.4 mg of yohimbine HCL daily.
• Athletic performance – 20 mg of yohimbine HCL twice daily.
• Anxiety – 10 mg of yohimbine HCL once weekly. Often used in conjunction with therapy.

Keep in mind that yohimbe effects are dependent on the amount of the supplement you take.

Because this supplement may produce severe side effects, you shouldn’t take more yohimbine than you need to accomplish your intended goal. If you have never taken yohimbe before, start with a low dose and gradually increase it over time.

Is Yohimbe Safe to Take?

According to the Natural Medicines Database, yohimbe is rated as Possibly Unsafe as high dosages can result in serious adverse effects.

Research has indicated that yohimbe supplements are safe when taken for up to 10 weeks, under medical supervision. It is important to check with a doctor before using this supplement to determine whether it will work for you.

Children, pregnant women and breastfeeding women should avoid the use of yohimbe supplements.

Yohimbe supplements may cause severe side effects in some people, including cardiac arrhythmias, blood pressure changes, seizures, agitation, heart attack, paralysis and respiratory depression.

If you experience any of these side effects, seek immediate medical attention. Other less serious side effects of yohimbe supplements may include rash, nausea, bloating, vomiting, stomach upset, frequent urination, rapid heartbeat and tremor.

If any of these side effects occur and become bothersome, talk to your doctor before continuing the use of yohimbe.

Because of the way that yohimbe works in the body, it should not be used with MAOIs or other anti-depressant medications. Check with a doctor before taking this supplement if you have been diagnosed with a medical condition or are currently using prescription drugs.

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