Damiana: dried herb from Turnera diffusa
Turnera diffusa is a woody shrub with small green leaves and yellow, aromatic flowers. The leaves are broadly lance shaped, roughly 10 to 25 millimetres long, with three to six teeth along the margin. Dried trade material almost always contains red brown twigs and the small spherical fruits of the plant as well; that is normal and says nothing about quality. The species grows in arid and semi arid country and ranges from southern Texas through Mexico and Central America down to South America and the Caribbean.
The genus name Turnera refers to William Turner (1508-1568), regarded as the father of English botany, while diffusa means spreading and describes the sprawling habit of the plant. In Mexico and Central America damiana has been in use for centuries: as an infusion, as the base of a liqueur and as incense for its pleasant scent. Avalon lists damiana among the relaxing herbs and the aphrodisiacs, because that is the reputation the herb has carried for a long time. What it does for any individual differs from person to person, which is not something we promise, and damiana is not a medicine.
Making an infusion
- Steep 10 to 15 grams, or three tablespoons, for fifteen minutes in a litre of water.
- Alternatively, let that amount simmer gently for five minutes and then strain it.
- If you have the powder, stir one tablespoon into water or fruit juice.
The slightly bitter, herbal taste takes some getting used to. Honey, a mint leaf or a strip of lemon peel softens it. Use the herb in moderation.
Warning
Do not use damiana if you have liver or urinary tract disease. If you take medication, are pregnant or are breastfeeding, check with your doctor or pharmacist first. Keep the herb out of reach of children. This is a botanical product rather than a medicine, and using it remains your own responsibility.
Storage
Keep the bag tightly closed in a cool, dry and dark place, preferably in an airtight jar. That way the leaf holds its scent and stays usable for longer.
In the same category Avalon Magic Plants stocks Wild Lettuce, Klip Dagga, Maconha Brava, Mulungu, valerian root and skullcap, with a wider range of herbs and extracts among the aphrodisiacs. Your order is shipped in discreet packaging.
