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Yohimbe

Also indexed as: Pausinystalia yohimbe, Yohimbine
Yohimbe: Main Image © Martin Wall
Common names:
Yohimbine
Botanical names:
Pausinystalia yohimbe

Parts Used & Where Grown

Yohimbe is a tall evergreen forest tree native to southwestern Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Congo. The bark of this African tree is used medicinally. There are concerns, however, that the tree may be endangered due to over-harvesting for use as medicine.

  • Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
  • Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
  • This interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

Used for Amount Why
Erectile Dysfunction
15 to 30 mg a day of yohimbine 3 stars [3 stars] Yohimbe appears to increase blood flow and dilate blood vessels.
Obesity
Take under medical supervision: enough to supply 5 mg of yohimbine four times per day 2 stars [2 stars] Yohimbine, a chemical found in yohimbe bark, may help weight loss by raising metabolic rate, reducing appetite, and increasing fat burning.
Athletic Performance
Refer to label instructions 1 star [1 star] Yohimbine has shown an ability to stimulate the nervous system, promote the release of fat from fat cells, and affect the cardiovascular system.
Depression
Refer to label instructions 1 star [1 star] Yohimbine (the active component of yohimbe) inhibits monoamine oxidase and therefore may be beneficial in treating depression.

Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)

Historically, yohimbe bark was used in western Africa for fevers, leprosy, and coughs.1 It has also been used to dilate pupils, for heart disease, and as a local anesthetic. It has a more recent history of use as an aphrodisiac and a hallucinogen.

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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2013.

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