Damiana, Turnera Diffusa

Herbal Actions:  diffusive, dispersive, disaphoretic, circulatory stimulant, aphrodisiac, *anti-depressant, nervous trophorestorative, diuretic, emmenagogue, antispetic

Healing Affinities: Cardiovascular and nervous system

MEDICINAL USE

Damiana is a potent restorative aphrodisiac, anti-depressant, relaxant, nerve tonic, and urinary antispetic.

Nervous System: Damiana is a tonic and is restorative to the nervous system. Damiana stimulates blood movement into and throughout the pelvic floor, reigniting the fire within. Improved blood flow can restore vitality and functionality to nerves suffering from deficient circulation,  She is a powerful ally when you’re facing low libido, especially due to stress and fatigue.  Damiana gets things moving again to promote harmony within the body. Damiana can also be called on for women experiencing painful or delayed periods and also headaches connected to menstruation and PMS. 

Sexual Vitality: Damiana is a powerful aphrodisiac for both women and men, she is your erotic bestie to call on when its time to connect.  For women, she allows you to relax and step into your sensuality.  If you have issues with vaginal dryness, damiana is very stimulating and aids in wetness.  It is restorative to the reproduction organs for both sexes.  For men, Damiana is reputed for its testosterogenic activity.  Call on Damiana if you’re experiencing issues with ED, premature ejaculation, nervousness, or sexual impotence. 

Stimulating Properties: Damiana is a thymoleptic, meaning it has a stimulating action on the body and mind.  It can be recommended to people suffering from mild to moderate depression or nervous exhaustion. Due to its stimulating and restorative properties, it is a valuable ally when anxiety and depression are happening simultaneously. Damiana is a gentle “pick me up” herb.

Urinary: As a urinary antiseptic and diuretic, it is useful in the treatment of urinary infections such as cystitis and urethritis.  It is also a mild laxative, useful for constipation due to poor bowel muscle tone. 

Ancient History

Damiana is native to Central and South America and the southern region of the United States.  The Mayans and Aztecs used Damiana for ceremony and traditional use. The Mayans and Aztecs used Damiana as an aphrodisiac, mild relaxant, and general tonic to improve health. They referred to Damiana as the “asthma broom” and would often use it in smoking blends for relaxation, lung cleansing, and the uplifting feeling she gives.

The Mayans would make “love potions” out of the leaves and the flowers and it was consumed as an aphrodisiac.  There are many anecdotes regarding damiana as a potent medicine to restore sexual vitality and the female and male reproductive systems.

The Guaycura people of Mexico used damiana for centuries as an aphrodisiac, a calming agent, mood enhancer, and as a urinary tract tonic.

Magickal Properties

Element Associations: Fire

Planetary Association: Venus, Pluto

Chakra Association: Root, Sacral, Solar Plexus,Heart

Magical Properties: Lust, love, sex magic, visions

Magnesticism,  attraction, relationships, intimacy, sexual desire, and sensuality. The Mayans used Damiana in love potions and in their rituals to improve meditation and divination. It is useful to turning off the inner mind and chatter. 

It can be used in sex magic and tantric rituals, allowing for deeping connection with oneself and/or a partner/partners.

Can be used in ritual for self love, attraction, and for love and lust. 

In times of despair, to shift your energy call on damiana to remind you of your lust for life.

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Ashwagandha, Withania somnifera

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Chamomile - Matricaria recutita