Organic Damiana Leaf (High In Apigenin)

Organic Damiana Leaf (High In Apigenin) is cut organic leaf of Turnera diffusa, selected carefully to preserve its authenticity and standard, with a naturally sweet, aromatic smell that sets it apart from most tea herbs. People drink it alone, fold it into blends, or steep it into homemade liqueurs. Offered in 4oz, 1LB and 10lb sizes.

At a glance

• Cut organic leaf of Turnera diffusa, naturally high in apigenin
• Naturally sweet, aromatic smell that sets it apart from most tea herbs
• Carries apigenin and other flavonoids, terpenes, cyanogenic glycosides, arbutin, tannins, small caffeine-like alkaloids
• Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons per 8 oz of hot water for 5 to 10 minutes, covered
• Warm, uplifted, social feel lighter than coffee
• Offered in 4oz, 1LB and 10lb

The herb. Damiana is a small aromatic shrub in the Passifloraceae family found throughout Central and South America, Mexico, the Caribbean and parts of the southwestern United States. For generations its leaves have been enjoyed as a naturally sweet tea and used to flavor traditional Mexican liqueurs, the original margarita was said to feature it as a key ingredient. The leaf carries flavonoids such as apigenin, terpenes, cyanogenic glycosides, arbutin, tannins and small amounts of caffeine-like alkaloids.

What's in it. Organic damiana leaf, naturally high in apigenin.

• Terpenes, which supply the sweet aroma
• Apigenin and the other flavonoids, which give the mellow, easygoing side of the herb
• Trace caffeine-like alkaloids, which account for the light lift users describe

Dosage, first time. Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of leaf per 8 oz of hot water for 5 to 10 minutes, covered, and strain. Start at 1 teaspoon and give it half an hour, damiana is gentle but noticeable.

Regular use. Most people settle at one or two cups a day within the 1 to 2 teaspoon range, often in the afternoon or early evening. Blend it with lemon balm or mint for a brighter cup, or steep a handful in spirits for a few weeks for a homemade liqueur.

What to expect. Users describe damiana as both calming and a little stimulating, a warm, uplifted, social feel lighter than coffee. It suits a relaxed evening with friends more than bedtime. For a purely calming evening leaf, see Organic Passion Flower.

Side effects. At tea strength damiana is mild. Large amounts can bring headache, digestive upset or restlessness, and very large amounts are unsafe because of the leaf's cyanogenic glycosides. Keep to tea servings, and reduce or stop if you feel off.

Interactions and cautions. Damiana may affect blood sugar, so speak with your prescriber if you take medication for it, and stop use two weeks before surgery. Traditionally not used during pregnancy, consult a healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, nursing or on any medication.

Ingredients and storage. Organic Damiana Leaf (Turnera diffusa). Store sealed away from light and heat, the aroma fades if the bag is left open.

Common questions

• What does organic damiana leaf tea taste like? Naturally sweet and aromatic with a faint bitterness.
• Is damiana leaf stimulating like coffee? Only mildly, its caffeine-like alkaloids are present in small amounts, so users describe a soft lift rather than a jolt.
• Can I make damiana liqueur with this leaf? Yes, the leaf has flavored Mexican liqueurs for generations and steeps well in spirits.

Disclaimer. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Damiana is a traditional botanical, and traditional use does not establish that it will produce any particular result. Consult your healthcare provider before use if you take any medication or have a medical condition. Use at your own risk and keep out of reach of children. Formulated by Healing Herbals, run by a practicing herbalist of 13+ years.