Yohimbe (pausinystalia johimbe)
Synopsis of yohimbe
Yohimbe refers to the bark of the Pausinystalia yohimbe tree, a tall evergreen native to Central and West Africa. Traditionally used as an aphrodisiac and stimulant, yohimbe contains the active alkaloid yohimbine, which exerts powerful physiological effects by blocking alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. This action increases the release of norepinephrine, enhances blood flow, and stimulates the central nervous system—effects that underlie its use in supporting sexual performance, energy, and mood.
Yohimbine has been used in both herbal and pharmaceutical forms to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), low libido, and fatigue, especially when linked to vascular or neurological insufficiencies. In modern medicine, yohimbine hydrochloride (a standardized pharmaceutical form) has been prescribed for ED and occasionally for orthostatic hypotension and depression-related sexual dysfunction. It is also found in fat-burning and pre-workout supplements due to its thermogenic and lipolytic (fat-releasing) properties.
However, yohimbe is known for its strong stimulant nature and narrow therapeutic range. Side effects may include anxiety, elevated blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, insomnia, and nausea. As a result, it is used cautiously and often avoided by individuals with cardiovascular conditions or anxiety disorders.
Historical Use:
Yohimbe has a long legacy of traditional use among African peoples, especially in Cameroon, Gabon, and Nigeria. Tribal healers used yohimbe bark in rituals and medicine to enhance virility, increase courage, and improve stamina. The bark was often brewed into a tea or chewed to address sexual weakness, infertility, and fatigue. In some cultures, it was used ceremonially before battle or as part of rites of passage associated with masculine power and fertility.
German and French colonists in Africa took interest in yohimbe in the late 19th century and began exporting the bark to Europe. By the early 20th century, yohimbine had been isolated and introduced into Western pharmacology. It was soon marketed in Europe and the United States for male sexual dysfunction, becoming one of the first pharmacological agents available for this purpose before the advent of PDE5 inhibitors like sildenafil (Viagra).
In the 1960s and 1970s, yohimbe gained further popularity in the Western natural health market, not only for sexual health but also as a stimulant and fat-loss aid. Its use continued to expand into sports nutrition and bodybuilding communities.
Despite its long-standing use, modern regulatory bodies in some countries have restricted or banned yohimbe supplements due to safety concerns and inconsistent dosages. Nevertheless, yohimbe remains a potent example of a traditional remedy that made a major impact on modern medicine, particularly in the realm of sexual health and natural stimulants.
Yohimbe is used for these health conditions
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Erectile Dysfunction (Scientific)
Sex Drive (low) (Scientific)
Testosterone (low) (Traditional)
yohimbe is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Traditional)
Male Reproductive System (Scientific)
Nerves (Traditional)
Reproductive System (Traditional)
Sympathetic Nervous System (Scientific)
Testes (Traditional)
