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How Do I Avoid Damiana Side Effects?

Erin J. Hill
Erin J. Hill

The best way to avoid damiana side effects is to take the correct dosage, and to avoid taking the herb altogether if you have certain health conditions. Using additional supplements may also have combat certain side effects that damiana can deplete when used over time. Careful monitoring is needed to ensure that no side effects do occur, especially in those who are taking additional medications or natural supplements.

Damiana is an herb that is sold to treat several disorders. It is used as a sexual enhancer, for depression and anxiety, to help with mood disorders, and to alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalances. This herb may also be used as a laxative to relieve occasional constipation. It has been scientifically proven to help with some of these disorders.

Sufferers of panic attacks and depression may find relief with damiana.
Sufferers of panic attacks and depression may find relief with damiana.

One of the best ways to avoid damiana side effects is to take the right dosage. This can be hard to determine until you have been using the herb for awhile, so you might have to do some tweaking during the initial stages of treatment. Side effects can also be more likely if you are taking damiana in combination with other herbs as part of an anti-anxiety or sexual health blend. If you begin having troublsome side effects, speak with a healthcare professional to determine whether damiana, or another drug, is to blame.

Since it can be used as a laxative, one of the most common damiana side effects is diarrhea when it is taken in excess. If you begin having stomach discomfort, cramps, or diarrhea, you should lower your dosage and wait for it to subside. This is a good way to determine what your threshold is for taking damiana.

If you have certain health conditions, you can also avoid some damiana side effects by avoiding this herb, or by monitoring your condition while you take it. For instance, those with diabetes could experience changes in blood sugar when taking damiana. If you are low in iron you might also experience an even lower iron count while taking this herb, so supplementation might also be needed while you're taking it to avoid anemia.

The most important factor to consider when trying to avoid damiana side effects is to use it only under the supervision of a medical professional. Since there are some potentially dangerous side effects, such as blood sugar changes, these risks should be assessed and averted. Some doctors might have knowledge of using herbal supplements for treatment, or you can see an herbalist or holistic practitioner.

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    • Sufferers of panic attacks and depression may find relief with damiana.
      By: marilyn barbone
      Sufferers of panic attacks and depression may find relief with damiana.