The bark of the yohimbe tree, which is a type of evergreen tree that grows in parts of West Africa, has been used for sexual enhancement for years.
The bark contains a natural alkaloid known as yohimbine. This alkaloid has been associated with other beneficial uses in addition to treating sexual dysfunction. Yohimbe tree extracts are also used for weight loss and increased energy.
Traditional uses of yohimbe tree bark were common among the Bantu people of West Africa. This natural remedy was also exported to ancient Egypt, where it was used as a stimulant and aphrodisiac.
In the country of Cameroon, it was reportedly used in folk medicine to alleviate impotence caused by witchcraft and black magic. According to Entheologists, it may have been used in spiritual practice as well, during initiation rituals.
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Traditional Uses of Yohimbe Tree Bark
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Yohimbe tree bark has been in use as an aphrodisiac for thousands of years. Those who take the bark for this purpose sometimes use it in the form of tea.
Yohimbe bark extract is now more commonly consumed in pill form as a dietary supplement, but it is still possible to purchase raw or powdered bark.
In some cultures, Yohimbe has also been smoked in order to produce hallucinogenic effects.
Historically, Yohimbe was also taken in parts of Africa to treat coughs, fevers and leprosy, although these effects have not been scientifically proven, according to the University of Michigan Health System. [1]
Modern uses of yohimbe still recognize the benefits of this supplement for libido and sexual enhancement, but it is also used today for weight loss, particularly among competitive bodybuilders.
Yohimbe Extract Uses in Dietary Supplements
When taken as a dietary supplement, yohimbe can help to improve sexual function and symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
Yohimbe tree extract has also been used to treat general sexual dysfunction in women and men, as well as dysfunction resulting from the effects of selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitors and other antidepressants.
Other uses for yohimbe bark extract include fat burning and weight loss, as well as increases in energy levels.
More research is needed in order to determine how effective yohimbe tree bark extract is at producing these results, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. [2]
A synthesized form of yohimbine hydrochloride has been shown to be effective for treating sexual dysfunction, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, although this product is only available with a prescription. [3]
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Mechanism of Action for Yohimbe
The effects of yohimbe tree bark for sexual enhancement are believed to be due to the presence of yohimbine.
This alkaloid is an alpha-2 adrenergic blocking agent that improves the flow of blood to the genitals by dilating blood vessels in this area.
Yohimbine is present to some degree in yohimbe dietary supplements, although the exact amount found varies in different products.
Yohimbe used for weight loss is believed to suppress hunger due to the actions of yohimbine. This supplement also enhances the release of norepinephrine, a hormone that is linked to appetite and fat metabolism, according to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. [4]
Recommended Dosages of Yohimbe
No standard or recommended dosages of yohimbe tree extract exist. Those who take these products as dietary supplements should discuss dosages with their healthcare provider and follow the instructions given on product labels.
Since these products contain varying amounts of yohimbine, it is difficult to come up with a standard dosage that is safe and effective for yohimbe uses.
Yohimbe tree extract is available as tablets or capsules that can be taken by mouth. This extract can also be prepared as a tea or purchased in the form of tea bags.
Those who have an underlying medical condition should not take yohimbe without talking to their doctor first. Those with high blood pressure should avoid taking yohimbe tree bark extract, since it has the potential to increase blood pressure.
Using yohimbe tree products could potentially lead to serious or even life-threatening effects in patients with heart conditions, kidney disease or diabetes.
- Helps promote fat loss with regular exercise and diet
- Can help keep appetite levels in check
- Promotes maximum sexual energy
Yohimbe Bark Adverse Effects
Yohimbe bark can have side effects that range from mild to severe, especially when it is used for extended periods of time, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. [5]
Yohimbe tree bark can cause interactions with other supplements or medications, such as antidepressants, blood pressure drugs and antibiotics.
Those who take monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) should not take yohimbe since there is a risk of potentially serious adverse effects.
Yohimbe is also not considered a safe supplement for children due to an even higher risk of side effects caused by heightened sensitivity.
Women who are nursing or pregnant should avoid taking yohimbe as well, since the effects of these supplements in pregnant or breastfeeding women have not been extensively studied.
Some of the mild side effects of yohimbe tree bark extract include flushed skin, anxiety, headaches, rapid heartbeat, nausea and dizziness.
Adverse effects that can be more severe include heart attacks, seizures and kidney failure. Taking high doses of yohimbe can be fatal or cause serious effects, such as breathing difficulties or dangerously low blood pressure.
Those who considering taking these supplements for sexual dysfunction or other yohimbe tree uses should talk with their doctor first.
It is important to let doctors know about underlying medical conditions and any medications or supplements being taken in order to reduce the risk of adverse effects.
User Reviews of Yohimbe
A large number of those who have taken yohimbe to support sexual function reported that these supplements were effective. For a small number of consumers, these products did not work for sexual dysfunction.
A large number of those who took yohimbe for weight loss reported that it was effective at producing the desired results with proper usage. A small number did report having higher blood pressure readings, headaches and other side effects.
It is important to note that everyone will have a different sensitivity level to yohimbe tree extract and results can vary. If you decide to use this supplement, start with the lowest effective dosage and only increase the dose if you do not experience side effects.
- University of Michigan Health System. Yohimbe. 2015.
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Yohimbe. 2013.
- National Center for Biotechnology Information. Yohimbine. 2016.
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Yohimbe. 2012.
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Yohimbe. 2012.
