Damiana
Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.
Summary
Damiana is the name for the leaves of various species of Turnera, particularly Turnera diffusa and Turnera aphrodisiaca, native to California, Mexico, and South America. Historically used as a tonic and aphrodisiac, a fluid extract was administered in doses of 10 to 25 drops, though it was never officially included in any pharmacopeia.
Encyclopedia entry (1928–1936)
DAMIANA, the name of the leaves of various species of Turnera, plants of the family of the same name (Turneraceae), in particular: Turnera diffusa Willd. and Turnera aphrodisiaca Ward., growing in California, Mexico, and South America. The leaves are about 3 cm long, usually glabrous (when young covered with sparse hairs), lanceolate in shape with large teeth. The taste is aromatic-bitter. The preparation Extractum fluidum Damianae, 10–25 drops several times a day as a tonic and stimulant (aphrodisiacum). Although this remedy has been known since 1880, it has not been introduced into any pharmacopeia.
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Cite this page
“Damiana.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/damiana/