Description:  Native not only to the Gulf of Mexico region, but also the Caribbean & Namibia in southern Africa.  This aromatic shrub grows up to six feet tall with smooth, pale green leaves & small bright yellow flowers.  It can be cultivated but prefers heat and humidity.  Leaves are harvested when in flower during summer.

The ancient Mexicans used it as a tonic to increase the appetite and as a digestive aid, but today it is used mainly to treat sexual dysfunctions.

Ironically, it is also a popular cure for a hangover, while, at the same time, used to flavour a liquor made in Guadalajara called Damiana.

Main constituents: Arbutin, Volatile Oil, Resins, Gums, & Tannins 

Properties: Antidepressant, Mild laxative & diuretic, aphrodisiac, stimulant, tonic.

Uses: Internally:  Useful for premature ejaculation & impotence.  Beneficial for both sexes to restore nervous system & reproductive organs.  Helps with painful or delayed periods.  Urinary antiseptic.

Safety Considerations:  Higher doses of damiana may induce a mild sense of euphoria. The leaves have a minor laxative effect, which is more pronounced at higher intakes, and may cause loosening of stools.

Magical:

Folk Names:  Yerba del Pastor 

Gender:  Masculine 

Planet:  Mars 

Powers:  Lust, Love, Visions

Uses:  Lust infusions, Vision Quests.    A commercially-prepared liqueur is available in a bottle shaped somewhat like the Venus of Willendorf.

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