DAMIANA (Turnera diffusa)

INTRODUCTION:
Damiana is a small herb that is native to Northern Mexico. Its traditional use probably dates back to prehistoric times; the Indians employ beverages of this relaxant as an aphrodisiac and medicinally, but probably not for pleasure. Very often damiana is combined with other herbs (tabacco, hashish, orange blossom) to form sexual stimulating or psycho-active smoking blends. Other traditional additives are cola nuts (Cola nitida) and Strychnos nux-vomica seeds.

EFFECTS:
This sexual stimulant produces a marihuana-like high, euphoria and mental stimulation. When taken orally (a beverage or an infusion) the effects are far from spectacular; the effects are much milder than when smoked.

DURATION:
When smoked, the effects last 1-1,5 hours. When taken as a beverage, the effects are much milder, but last longer.

DOSAGE AND DURATION:
Damiana may be smoked in the form of joints, taken as a coldwater infusion or prepared as an alcoholic beverage. An effective dose consists of 4-20 grams of dried plant material (leaves and stems). Sometimes damiana is combined with catnip (Nepeta cataria); a mild euphoric tea is prepared by combining both herbs in 50%/50% ratio and in doses of a few grams. Let the tea draw for 5 minutes. A coldwater infusion may be prepared by soaking the plant material in water and filtrate the solution after 24 hours. A damiana brew may be prepared by boiling the plant material in water for one hour and then filtrate the solution. A damiana liqueur (aphrodisiac): to 0.7 L. of alcohol (white rum or tequila) 10-20 grams of damiana, 2 grams of mace (Myristica fragrans), 0.5 grams galanga-rhizome and vanilla are added. Ingredients should be drawn for 3 weeks minimal.

Contains 50 grams