Yohimbe (Pausinystalia yohimbe syn. Corynanthe yohimbe)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Rubiaceae
• Common Names: Yohimbe, Yohimbe Bark
• Parts Used: Bark

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Description

Pausinystalia yohimbe, commonly known as yohimbe, is a tall evergreen tree native to Central and West Africa. Its bark contains yohimbine, an alkaloid with stimulant and aphrodisiac properties. Yohimbe has been traditionally used to enhance libido, improve circulation, and support cognitive function.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in African traditional medicine as an aphrodisiac and male tonic.
• Employed to stimulate circulation and treat erectile dysfunction.
• Traditionally used as an energy and endurance enhancer.
• Applied in herbal medicine for mood enhancement and cognitive support.

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Constituents

• Yohimbine (primary alkaloid)
• Indole alkaloids
• Tannins
• Flavonoids
• Essential oils

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Actions

• Aphrodisiac
• Stimulant
• Vasodilator
• Antidepressant
• Fat-burning agent
• Nootropic (cognitive enhancer)

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Medicinal Uses

1. Libido and Sexual Health:
Yohimbe is well known for its ability to enhance libido, improve erectile function, and increase sexual stamina.

2. Circulatory Support:
Acts as a vasodilator, improving blood flow to extremities and organs.

3. Energy and Athletic Performance:
Used to enhance endurance, reduce fatigue, and promote fat metabolism.

4. Cognitive and Mood Support:
May help with mild depression, brain function, and mental clarity.

5. Weight Loss and Fat Burning:
Traditionally used to support metabolism and aid in weight management.

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Preparation and Dosage

⚠️ Note: Yohimbe is a potent herb with a narrow therapeutic window; dosage should be carefully monitored.

Decoction (Tea from Bark):

• ½-1 tsp of dried bark per cup of water. Simmer for 10-15 minutes. Drink once daily.

Capsules/Powdered Supplement:

• 5-15 mg of yohimbine alkaloid per dose, up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 1-3 ml taken up to twice daily.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Not recommended.
• Heart Conditions: May raise blood pressure and heart rate; avoid if you have hypertension or heart disease.
• Anxiety and Nervous Disorders: May worsen anxiety, panic attacks, and stress.
• Drug Interactions: Avoid with MAO inhibitors, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and stimulants.
• Overdose Risk: High doses can cause nausea, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or nervous system overstimulation.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional African Medicine: Considered a warming, invigorating tonic for energy and circulation.
• Traditional Western Herbalism: Used as a male reproductive tonic and circulatory stimulant.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): May be classified as a Yang tonic, increasing fire and movement in the body.

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Combinations

• For Sexual Health: Combine with maca and ginseng.
• For Energy and Endurance: Combine with rhodiola and cordyceps.
• For Mood and Cognitive Support: Combine with bacopa and ginkgo.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Bark is sustainably harvested from mature trees.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Store dried bark and extracts in airtight containers away from moisture and heat.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Pausinystalia yohimbe’s aphrodisiac, circulatory, and stimulant properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

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Yohimbe remains a powerful herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for libido enhancement, circulation support, and energy boosting. Due to its potency, caution should be exercised when using this herb.