Yohimbe Extract - Is It Safe To Take?

The yohimbe extract has received both good and bad press in recent times. It is essential that you get both sides of the story in order to effectively evaluate if this is a supplement you want to take.

For starters, recognize that the words "yohimbe" and "yohimbine" are often incorrectly used interchangeably, even though the words are closely related.

Yohimbe bark refers to the bark of the West African pausinystalia yohimbe tree or to the entire tree itself. Yohimbine on the other hand is the principal active chemical found in the tree.

This distinction is important because yohimbine hydrochloride is a prescription drug while yohimbe extract are sold as dietary supplements. The former is more potent and in some cases, the latter contains little yohimbine.

Benefits Of Yohimbe Extract

Traditionally, the yohimbe herb was used as an aphrodisiac. Currently it is used to treat erectile dysfunction in men (male impotence) and to increase libido in women.

It is theorized that yohimbine may also improve postural hypotension (the lowering of blood pressure whilst standing) and xerostomia (dry mouth)

It must be said that research supporting all these health benefits are either inconclusive, sparse or of poor quality. Also since the various brands of yohimbe have varying degrees of potencies, one can expect varying degrees of effectiveness when taking the herb.

Yohimbe Side Effects Taking prescription or over-the-counter yohimbe could result in anyone of the following adverse reactions: insomnia, irritability, loss of appetite, muscle aches, nausea ,painful urination, rash, renal failure, seizures, skin flushing, painful urination. The herb is contraindicated for people with blood pressure problems, depression, heart disease, kidney problems and liver disease. Also, if you are pregnant or under 18 - you shouldn't take yohimbe herb. If you are on medication such as antidepressants, diabetes medication and others - please consult your physician before taking the herb.Over the counter yohimbe is available in capsule, liquid extract, tea and tincture forms.

Dosage

You'd be well advised to follow the dosage recommendation on the package.

Of course, if you have been prescribed yohimbe hydrochloride, your doctor will advise you as to the dosage.

However to give you an idea of possible dosages (based on scientific publications and lab experiments), you may take 15-42 mg of of yohimbine hydrochloride daily for impotence or daily.

If you are a woman experiencing low sexual desire, you may take around 16 mg a day.

What To Do Now

Many doctors and herbalist simply do not prescribe or recommend yohimbine hydrochloride or yohimbe herbal supplements. This is because of the adverse reactions that people can experience when they consume yohimbe as well as the weak scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of the herb.

As always, consult your doctor prior to taking any dietary supplement. Given the safety issues around yohimbe bark extract, it might be best to stay away from it.

If you are suffering from impotence or lack of libido, there are safe sexual supplements you can take to effectively rectify your problem.

Leave Yohimbe Extract & Return To Herbs For Health

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