Pausinystalia johimbe
Part Used: Dried bark (Cameroon)
Yohimbe (Pausinystalia johimbe) is a tree that grows throughout the African nations of Cameroon, Gabon and Zaire. For centuries, natives from these areas have ingested both the crude bark and purified compound as a tonic to enhance sexual prowess and as an aphrodisiac. The bark has been smoked as a hallucinogen and has been used in traditional medicine to treat angina and hypertension. The herb is a sensual stimulant for healthy men and women. Today, doctors prescribe an extract from the tree to treat organic impotence. It is used to treat impotency and fatigue. Sexual stimulant to men and women that increases libido (aphrodisiac). It stimulates erectile tissue in both sexes, and enhances sexual sensitivity, arousal and orgasm. It also increases sperm production and motility.
Yohimbe's energizing effects stem from it's ability to increase blood flow to the genitals, both male and female. It is thought to stimulate the pelvic nerve ganglia and thus is helpful for men with erection problems. In fact a prescription drug, Yohimbine hydrochloride, is the only FDA approved drug for impotence. Effects can include increased libido, increased sensation and increased stamina. Women have also reported similar effects and general pleasant sensations. Yohimbe bark contains about 6% yohimbine. This constituent is an indole alkaloid that is classified as an alpha-2-adrenergic blocking agent. The herb has a general nervous system stimulatory effect and can cause changes in blood pressure by dilating blood vessels. It can increase the heart rate, raise body temperature and increase blood pressure. At higher dosages, it has a mild psychotropic effect. Yohimbe may also boost the adrenaline supply to nerve endings, which can quicken male sensual stimulation. It has been used in combination with ginseng and saw palmetto as a remedy for men with low sex drive.
References:
PDR Health. http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/herbaldrugs/103010.shtml
All Natural. http://www.allnatural.net/herbpages/yohimbe-bark.shtml
Herbal Information Center. http://www.kcweb.com/herb/yohimbe.htm
