Damiana, leaves (Turnera aphrodisiaca)

Damiana Herbal Tea (Turnera diffusa)

Damiana Leaf Herbal Tea Cut – Dried Leaves

• Botanical name: Turnera diffusa Willd. (syn. Turnera aphrodisiaca)
• Family: Turneraceae
• Ingredients: dried damiana leaves, herbal tea cut
• Origin: Mexico
• Harvest: summer 2025
• Sizes: 50 g, 100 g, 250 g
• Preparation: 100 °C | 3-5 g per 250 ml | 10-15 min. infusion

Dried Damiana Leaves for Herbal Tea

The dried damiana leaves available at Terzaluna are of Mexican origin, harvested in summer and cut for the preparation of infusions and herbal teas. Damiana (Turnera diffusa) is a plant used for centuries in the herbal tradition of Central America for its tonic and stimulating qualities. Terza Luna allows you to purchase damiana leaves for herbal tea in packages of 50 g, 100 g, and 250 g.

Damiana Plant: What is Turnera Diffusa

Damiana, also known as Turnera diffusa, belongs to the Turneraceae family and is a woody shrub characterized by small green leaves and distinctive yellow flowers with an oval shape. Its natural habitat includes Central and South America and California, from Mexico to Texas, down to South America and the Caribbean: areas characterized by an arid and sunny climate. The plant preferably grows on rocky and sunny soils and can reach up to 2 meters in height.

From this plant, the leaves and flowering tops are collected, which are dried for use in the preparation of infusions and damiana herbal teas. The leaves have a typical aromatic scent and a slightly bitter taste, similar to that of sage.

Damiana and its Properties in Herbal Tradition

In the herbal tradition of Central America, damiana has been used for centuries — the Maya prepared a famous drink with damiana leaves, used as a tonic. The leaves are the most used part of the plant, being rich in essential oil, damianin (a bitter principle), arbutin, tannins, flavonoids (including apigenin), alkaloids, and phytosterols (including beta-sitosterol).

Traditionally, damiana herbal tea is used in various areas:

• Tonic and stimulant: damiana is traditionally used as a tonic in cases of physical and mental fatigue, tiredness, and stress. Damianin, a bitter principle contained in the leaves, is traditionally associated with a tonic action on the nervous system.
• Mood and relaxation: in herbal tradition, damiana is used for its effect on mood, useful in periods of nervousness, agitation, and restlessness. Apigenin, a flavonoid present in the leaves, is traditionally associated with a relaxing action.
• Sexual sphere: among the most well-known uses of damiana, herbal tradition employs it as a natural aphrodisiac for both men and women. This use is attributed to the presence of caffeine, flavonoids, alkaloids, arbutin, and beta-sitosterol. It is important to note that clinical studies on humans are still limited in this area.
• Female well-being: traditionally, damiana is also mentioned for support in cases of menstrual cycle disorders and premenstrual syndrome.
• Digestive function and urinary tract: damiana is traditionally used for digestive function, regularity of intestinal transit, and drainage of body fluids.
• Respiratory tract: in the tradition of Central America, damiana was also used in cases of cough and bronchial conditions.

Important note: the information provided refers to the traditional uses of Turnera diffusa and is not intended to attribute therapeutic or curative properties to the product. Damiana is not a drug. It is always recommended to consult your doctor.

How to Prepare Damiana Herbal Tea

To prepare a good damiana infusion, pour about 250 ml of water into a small pot and bring it to a boil. Turn off the heat, add 3-5 g of damiana leaves (about a tablespoon), cover, and let it steep for 10-15 minutes. Strain carefully and enjoy the tea while it's still warm. The taste is pleasant, slightly bitter: you can sweeten it with honey or natural stevia-based sweeteners.

Daily Dosage

It is recommended not to exceed 2-3 cups of tea per day, away from meals. For those trying damiana for the first time, it is advisable to start with one cup a day. For added safety, consult your doctor.

Smoking Damiana: Is it Harmful?

In Italy, smoking damiana as a tobacco substitute is completely legal, although still not widespread. Damiana leaves for smoking are an alternative for those who wish to quit smoking tobacco or cigarettes. Terzaluna's dried leaves can be used both for making teas and as dried damiana for smoking.

It is important to note that, although smoking damiana is legal, smoking any substance poses health risks to the respiratory system. Additionally, in excessive doses, smoked damiana may have counterproductive effects, causing anxiety rather than relaxation.

Damiana: Side Effects and Contraindications

When used in recommended doses, damiana does not have particular contraindications. However, it is important to keep the following warnings in mind:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: use is contraindicated as damiana may cause uterine contractions.
• Children: use is not recommended.
• Excessive doses: excessive consumption may cause intestinal cramps, diarrhea, prostate pain, nausea, headache, or insomnia. In case of disturbances, discontinue use.
• Hypoglycemic drugs: damiana may enhance the effects of diabetes medications. Consult your doctor.
• Anemia: the plant may affect iron absorption. Consult your doctor.
• Allergies: check for any allergies to the plant before consumption.

For those undergoing specific drug therapies, it is necessary to consult with your doctor before starting to consume the plant due to possible interactions.

Taste and Aroma of Damiana Tea

The damiana infusion has an amber color and a pleasant but slightly bitter taste, with aromatic notes reminiscent of sage. The aroma is warm and slightly pungent. For those who do not enjoy the pure taste of damiana tea, it is possible to add other flavors such as rose petals, cinnamon, orange peel, vanilla, or simply sweeten with honey.

Storage

Store damiana leaves in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Seal the package carefully after each use.

Where to Buy Damiana? Buy Online at Terzaluna

If you're wondering where to buy damiana leaves for your tea, Terzaluna is the answer. Our Mexican-origin leaves offer great value for money, and you can purchase damiana leaves online to receive a quality product at home.

Sizes and Prices

• Package of 50 g – 5.50 €
• Package of 100 g – 10.40 € (save 0.60 €)
• Package of 250 g – 19.40 € (save 8.10 €)

Ingredients

• Damiana (Turnera diffusa Willd.), dried leaves, tea cut.

Warning

The information provided is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Damiana is a plant, not a drug. Do not exceed the recommended doses. This product does not replace a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Keep out of reach of children. Consult your doctor before use, especially in case of illnesses, ongoing drug therapies, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

You might also be interested in our Healthy Mood selection with many nutrient-rich products!

Sources and Scientific Insights

• Estrada-Reyes, R., Ortiz-López, P., Gutiérrez-Ortiz, J., & Martínez-Mota, L. (2009). Turnera diffusa Wild (Turneraceae) recovers sexual behavior in sexually exhausted male rats. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 123(3), 423-429.
• Kumar, S., & Sharma, A. (2006). Anti-anxiety activity studies of Turnera aphrodisiaca Ward. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 105(1-2), 144-147.
• Kumar, S., Madaan, R., & Sharma, A. (2008). Evaluation of Turnera aphrodisiaca Ward. Leaves for aphrodisiac activity in rats. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 115(1), 107-112.
• Szewczyk, K., & Zidorn, C. (2014). Ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and bioactivity of the genus Turnera (Passifloraceae) with a focus on damiana (Turnera diffusa). Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 152(3), 424-443.