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Yohimbe is a herbal supplement that originated from evergreen trees native to western Africa. The principal alkaloid compound derived from this tree is known as yohimbine, which is the chemical responsible for its alleged potent properties. Today, Yohimbe (Pausinystalia Yohimbe) is popularly used as a dietary supplement and natural remedy for a variety of health conditions.
Yohimbe is most commonly used as an aphrodisiac, enhancing sexual function and boosting performance.This thousand-year-old drug is said to help with conditions like erectile dysfunction and low libido. Additionally, Yohimbe is sometimes used as a weight loss aid, as it’s thought to boost metabolism and promote fat burning.
That said, there’s currently a lack of scientific evidence to support the presence of Yohimbe benefits.Additionally, Yohimbe can cause adverse effects in some people, so it should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Alternative treatments may be more effective and safer for certain individuals.
Let’s take a closer look at the potential benefits, uses, and side effects of Yohimbe.
Medical Research Behind Yohimbe
Yohimbe is one of the earliest known aphrodisiacs. This Yohimbe bark extract was traditionally used as a sexual tonic to enhance performance and libido in men.
According to one of the earliest studies of Yohimbe, which included seven, randomized clinical trials, it was shown that patients who used Yohimbine to treat erectile dysfunction experienced better outcomes than those who used a placebo prescription drug.
In addition, eight weeks after the original testing, participants who took Yohimbe remained satisfied. Side effects were also minimal during this period.
Furthermore, a separate study involving 29 men also found that Yohimbe supplements were effective in treating delayed orgasms for 55% of participants. It has also been found that side effects were not adverse enough to halt the studies.
While some studies and anecdotes praise Yohimbe and yohimbine hydrochloride dietary supplements, most researchers remain skeptical.
One review claimed that Yohimbe on its own isn’t capable of treating erectile dysfunction. However, it may be used in conjunction with other valid treatment plans to enhance male reproductive capabilities.
The aforementioned study also cited that there have been little to no side effects to Yohimbe in smaller quantities; however, higher quantities brought about symptoms such as elevation of blood pressure, a slight anxiogenic action, and increased frequency of urination.
Another research paper reported similar results, saying that the clinical viability of Yohimbe wasn’t quite there yet.
Yohimbine was proven to be one of four substances that are more harmful to one’s psychological health than helpful, according to a German study (the other three are maca, horny goat weed, and Ginkgo biloba). However, it did show signs of performing better than the placebo (71% vs 45%)
Finally, the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) Standards Committee has said that: “If yohimbine has any potential indications for use in ED management, it would be among nonorganic erectile dysfunction; apart from ED, yohimbine has shown a limited efficacy in the treatment of premature ejaculation.”
With all the conflicting evidence, it’s hard to ascertain whether Yohimbe is an effective treatment option. Ultimately, the research about Yohimbe’s efficacy remains inconclusive at this time.
Health Benefits and Uses of Yohimbe
As seen above, there’s a lack of scientific evidence to support the health claims surrounding Yohimbe.
However, given its traditional use, there are some potential health benefits of taking this supplement.
Yohimbe has been used to resolve the symptoms of:
- Erectile dysfunction: One study found that 54% of participants had improved erections, while the control group only had 7%
- Weight loss: Inhibits the alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, leading to fat loss.
- Anxiety: Some research shows that Yohimbe when taken alongside exposure-based therapy can help patients resolve their anxiety disorders better than just the therapy alone.
- Depression: A research review does show that Yohimbe blocks monoamine oxidase, which helps remedy depressive disorders. However, more research needs to be done to fully support this as this claim is quite controversial.
- Delayed orgasms: Men who had orgasm difficulties have a higher chance of attaining satisfactory erections after taking Yohimbe.
- Blood pressure disorders: Yohimbe can increase blood pressure and cause erectile problems, which can help people suffering from low blood pressure.
This drug may also boost bodily functions. This include:
- Athletic performance: Yohimbe helped improve the body mass index of elite soccer players.
- Libido: Men can feel more sexually aroused after taking Yohimbe.
That said, these types of supplements often treat the symptoms of dysfunction, and rarely fix the underlying causes of dysfunction. There are more effective ways to get treatment for health conditions that Yohimbe may be able to treat. Talk with a trusted doctor to find the right treatment plan for you.
Can Yohimbe Cure Depression?
One misconception that has been touted is that Yohimbe can cure depression. However, this generally is not the case.
Research shows that patients who took Yohimbe after 10 days didn’t notice an improvement in their depressive symptoms.
Side Effects of Yohimbe
Yohimbe can cause several side effects, such as:
- High blood pressure
- Anxiety
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Rapid heartbeat
In addition, there have been higher risks associated with taking doses above 40 mg/day. This included paralysis, heart disease, and liver disease. Talk with a physician to get treatment for libido difficulties.
Who Shouldn’t Take Yohimbe?
Yohimbe is a supplement with questionable safety. Therefore, if given the choice to take any other supplement, it’s generally best to avoid Yohimbe in favor of clinically-approved medications or medical treatment plan.
Additionally, people with the following conditions should actively avoid taking this supplement:
- Heart conditions
- Kidney problems
- High blood pressure
- Anxiety disorders
- Pregnant women
- Minors (18 years old and below)
If you have any of the above conditions, speak with your doctor before taking Yohimbe.
Consult a Male Health Clinic for Guidance to Boost Sexual Performance Without Supplements
Yohimbe is an unsupported supplement with many purported health benefits. However, there’s a lack of scientific evidence to support most of these claims.
Yohimbe can also cause some side effects, such as anxiety and high blood pressure. Therefore, it’s generally best to avoid this supplement, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.
If you’re considering taking Yohimbe, consider getting professional medical advice from a doctor first. They can advise you on whether this supplement is right for you and offer alternative treatments that may better suit your needs.
The medical professionals at Prestige Men’s Medical Center in Tampa specialize in treating conditions that impact men’s health. Our concierge approach positions your unique case at the centerpoint of our focus. We don’t just give you a pill and send you on your way. We treat the underlying issues that led to conditions such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low testosterone, and more. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
