Turnera Aphrodisiac - the aphrodisiac of the Aztecs and the Mayans

The word Aphrodisiac is derived from ëAphroditaeí the Greek Goddess of Love. A lot of natural substances have historically been known as aphrodisiacs in Central & South America, Asia, Africa, and Europe, like yohimbine and the mandrake plant, as well as “Spanish fly” which is actually toxic and comes from an emerald green beetle. The Roman gladiators would take it for their orgies! In today's culture we think of strawberries, raw oysters & chocolate as aphrodisiacs.

Turnera aphrodisiaca, (pictures above) aka Damiana, a small shrub with yellow flowers is one of these and is abundant in the Americas. It’s use as a herbal remedy predates written history.

By the time the Spanish crossed the Atlantic, indigenous cultures like the Aztecs and Mayans had traditionally used it as a powerful sexual tonic for both men and women. Countless stories have been told of this herb's ability to restore sexual vitality and strengthen male and female reproductive systems by acting “energetically on the genitourinary organs of both genders.”

In modern day Herbal Medicine Damiana is thought of as a nervine & relaxant. It’s been used in alternative medicine to improve mental function, treat headaches, liven the spirits and lift mild depression or nervous exhaustion, soothe upset stomachs & constipation & as a bladder tonic. It is also thought of as an all-time favourite longevity herb because of its restorative nature.

It is even used in some traditional herbal smoking blends as a relaxant, although using a high dose can be a hallucinogen. Although Damiana is generally considered relatively safe, do your due diligence before using.

Some claim the "original" margarita featured Damiana liqueur. So next time you are feeling like you need a lift of the spirits and a livening in your loins make yourself a Damiana Margherita!