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Organic Damiana Leaf (Turnera diffusa) – A Traditional Herb with a Rich History

Turnera diffusa is a woody shrub with aromatic, yellow flowers and small green leaves. Native to regions stretching from Southern Texas to South America and eastward to the Caribbean, damiana has been traditionally used for its healthful properties and energizing spirit. Our organic damiana leaf is carefully harvested in the mountains of Mexico, where it has been infused for centuries to make damiana tea. The leaves are versatile and can be used in tea blends, herbal smoking mixtures, as a macerated extract, or infused into sweet liqueurs.

For centuries, damiana has been a well-known herb in Mexico, Central America, and South America, with its use dating back to the Aztec civilization. While it has gained fame for its connection to sexual wellness, it has also been valued as a relaxant, digestive stimulant, mood enhancer, and even a pleasant beverage for children. In modern times, it continues to be used as an herbal smoke and in liqueurs.

Damiana belongs to the Turneraceae family, with about half of the plants in this family falling under the Turnera genus. This sub-tropical shrub features aromatic, serrated leaves and small, bright yellow flowers. It thrives in regions of southwest Texas, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and Brazil.

The name “damiana” is derived from the Greek word “daman,” meaning “to tame or subdue.” It’s believed to have originated from the indigenous Guaycura people of Baja Mexico, who are thought to have been the first to use the herb. As the Guaycura began trading with the Aztecs, damiana’s use spread throughout the region. The herb was highly valued by the Mayans as well, who utilized it in ways similar to the Aztecs and Guaycura.

Dried damiana leaves can be brewed into tea, made into tinctures, or included in herbal smoking blends. Damiana leaves are also frequently infused in alcohol to create flavorful liqueurs or cordials.

Precautions

No known precautions. We recommend consulting with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.