Damiana (Turnera diffusa)
Botany, Geographical Distribution, and Horticultural Information of Damiana (Turnera diffusa)
Botany:
Damiana, scientifically known as Turnera diffusa, is a small shrub belonging to the family Passifloraceae. It typically grows to a height of 1-2 meters and is characterized by its aromatic leaves and small yellow flowers. The leaves are serrate and about 10-25 mm long. Damiana flowers are solitary, with five petals, and bloom in early to late summer. The plant is also known for its distinctive, spicy fragrance.
Geographical Distribution:
Turnera diffusa is native to southern Texas in the United States, Central America, Mexico, South America, and the Caribbean. It thrives in subtropical and tropical climates, particularly in semi-arid regions. The plant is commonly found in rocky, open areas and is well-adapted to dry, sandy soils.
Horticultural Information:
1. Cultivation: Damiana is not widely cultivated on a large scale but is grown in herb gardens and as an ornamental plant. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure. The plant is drought-tolerant but requires regular watering during the growing season.
2. Propagation: Damiana can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seed germination can be slow and uneven, so propagation by cuttings is often preferred for faster growth.
3. Harvesting: The leaves of damiana are the most commonly used part of the plant. They are harvested during the flowering season and can be used fresh or dried for various purposes.
4. Pests and Diseases: Turnera diffusa is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot in overly moist conditions.
5. Uses: Damiana is primarily known for its use in traditional medicine. The leaves are used to make teas and tinctures, reputed to have aphrodisiac and mood-enhancing properties. It is also used in the production of a Mexican liqueur called “Damiana.”
References:
1. “Turnera diffusa – Wikipedia” – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turnera_diffusa
2. “Turnera diffusa: Systematics, Etymology, Habitat, Cultivation – Antropocene.it” – https://antropocene.it/en/2023/03/13/turnera-diffusa-2/
3. “Ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and bioactivity of the genus Turnera (Passifloraceae) with a focus on damiana – Turnera diffusa | ResearchGate” – https://www.researchgate.net/publication/259955292_Ethnobotany_phytochemistry_and_bioactivity_of_the_genus_Turnera_Passifloraceae_with_a_focus_on_damiana_-_Turnera_diffusa
4. “Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult. | Plants of the World Online | Kew Science” – https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:836578-1
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Pharmacological and Medicinal Studies on Damiana (Turnera diffusa)
Overview:
Damiana (Turnera diffusa) has been the subject of various pharmacological studies due to its traditional use as a medicinal plant. These studies have focused on understanding its bioactive compounds and their potential therapeutic effects.
Key Pharmacological Findings:
1. Hepatoprotective Properties: A study highlighted the development of a hepatoprotective herbal drug from Turnera diffusa, focusing on a flavonoid named hepatodamianol. This compound was identified as the principal component responsible for the plant’s hepatoprotective properties. The study demonstrated hepatoprotection in vivo, comparable to silymarin, a known liver-protective agent.
2. Phytochemical Analysis: Research on the phytochemical composition of Damiana identified the presence of various secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, coumarins, phenolic compounds, terpenes, naphthoquinones, triterpenes, steroids, saponins, tannins, and xanthines. These compounds indicate the pharmacological potential of Damiana.
3. Anticancer Activity: A study evaluated the cytotoxic effect of extracts and organic fractions of Damiana on various tumor cell lines, including breast cancer cells. The methanolic extract of Damiana showed significant activity against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Two active compounds, arbutin and apigenin, were isolated from the most active fraction, suggesting potential anticancer properties.
4. Hypoglycemic and Antioxidant Activity: Pharmacological studies have established the hypoglycemic and antioxidant activity of Turnera diffusa. These properties contribute to its potential use in managing diabetes and oxidative stress-related conditions.
5. Prosexual and Estrogenic Effects: Damiana has been traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. Studies confirm its prosexual and estrogenic activities, supporting its use in enhancing sexual function and hormonal balance.
References:
1. “Development of a Hepatoprotective Herbal Drug from Turnera diffusa” – https://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2022/5114948
2. “PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF Turnera diffusa WILLD” – https://dx.doi.org/10.31686/ijier.vol8.iss11.2804
3. “Pharmacological and Ethnobotanical studies of Boerhavia diffusa Linn. : A review” –
4. “Cytotoxic activity of the methanolic extract of Turnera diffusa Willd on breast cancer cells” – https://dx.doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2013.0055
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Damiana- Phytochemistry<
Damiana contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including:
Flavonoids: Flavonoids are a large group of plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The most abundant flavonoids in damiana are apigenin, quercetin, and kaempferol.
Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids are a group of plant compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. The most abundant triterpenoids in damiana are dammaranes, oleananes, and friedelanes.
Volatile oils: Volatile oils are a group of aromatic compounds that contribute to the flavor and aroma of damiana. The most abundant volatile oils in damiana are linalool, terpinene-4-ol, and neral.
Other bioactive compounds: Damiana also contains other bioactive compounds, such as alkaloids, tannins, and coumarins. These compounds may contribute to the plant’s purported health benefits.
Flavonoids:
Damiana contains a variety of flavonoids, which are a group of plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The most abundant flavonoids in damiana are:
Apigenin: Apigenin is a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It has been shown to reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage, and kill bacteria.
Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-allergic properties. It has been shown to reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage, and prevent the release of histamine, which is a chemical involved in allergic reactions.
Kaempferol: Kaempferol is a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties. It has been shown to reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage, and promote apoptosis, which is the programmed death of cells.
Naringenin: Naringenin is a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-thrombotic properties. It has been shown to reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage, and prevent the formation of blood clots.
Hesperidin: Hesperidin is a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-viral properties. It has been shown to reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage, and inhibit the replication of viruses.
Dihydrokaempferol: Dihydrokaempferol is a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It has been shown to reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage, and kill bacteria.
Rutin: Rutin is a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-hemorrhagic properties. It has been shown to reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage, and strengthen blood vessels.
Isorhamnetin: Isorhamnetin is a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-microbial properties. It has been shown to reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage, and kill bacteria.
Luteolin: Luteolin is a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties. It has been shown to reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage, and promote apoptosis, which is the programmed death of cells.
Volatile Oils:
Damiana contains a variety of volatile oils, which are a group of aromatic compounds that contribute to the plant’s flavor and aroma. The most abundant volatile oils in damiana are:
Linalool: Linalool is a volatile oil with a sweet, floral scent. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-anxiety properties.
Terpinene-4-ol: Terpinene-4-ol is a volatile oil with a woody, camphoraceous scent. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-microbial properties.
Neral: Neral is a volatile oil with a lemony, floral scent. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-bacterial properties.
Geraniol: Geraniol is a volatile oil with a rose-like scent. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties.
Limonene: Limonene is a volatile oil with a citrusy scent. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties.
α-Pinene: α-Pinene is a volatile oil with a piney scent. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
β-Pinene: β-Pinene is a volatile oil with a camphoraceous scent. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties.
Camphene: Camphene is a volatile oil with a woody, camphoraceous scent. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-bacterial properties.
Ar-curcumene: Ar-curcumene is a volatile oil with a peppery scent. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-bacterial properties.
β-phellandrene: β-phellandrene is a volatile oil with a woody, camphoraceous scent. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-bacterial properties.
(E)-β-ocimene: (E)-β-ocimene is a sesquiterpene with a slightly floral scent. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-bacterial properties.
E-α-farnesene: E-α-farnesene is a sesquiterpene with a slightly sweet and floral scent. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-microbial properties.
β-bisabolene: β-bisabolene is a sesquiterpene with a slightly woody and earthy scent. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-microbial properties.
Alkaloids:
Damianain: Damianain is an alkaloid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-stress properties.
Tetraphyllin B: Tetraphyllin B is an alkaloid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties.
Isodamianine: Isodamianine is an alkaloid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-microbial properties.
Arbutin: Arbutin is a type of glucoside alkaloid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin-whitening properties.
Dammarane-type alkaloids: Damiana also contains a variety of dammarane-type alkaloids, which are a group of alkaloids that are relatively unique to the plant kingdom. These alkaloids have not been as well-studied as other alkaloids in damiana, but they are thought to have a variety of potential health benefits. Some of the most abundant dammarane-type alkaloids in damiana include:
Dammarane: This is the most basic dammarane-type alkaloid and is found in many plants, including damiana. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties.
Isodamimarane: This alkaloid is similar to dammarane, but it has an additional carbon atom in its structure. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties.
Tetraphylline: This alkaloid is similar to isodamimarane, but it has an additional hydroxyl group in its structure. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties.
Isotetraphylline: This is an isomer of tetraphylline and has similar properties.
Dammarane-type glycosides: Damiana also contains a variety of dammarane-type glycosides, which are compounds that are formed when dammarane-type alkaloids are combined with sugars. These glycosides are thought to be more bioavailable than the free alkaloids and may have enhanced health benefits.
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Contraindications and Safety of Damiana (Turnera diffusa)
Contraindications:
1. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is insufficient reliable information about the safety of using damiana during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Due to potential risks, it is generally advised that pregnant and breastfeeding women avoid using damiana.
2. Diabetes: Damiana might affect blood sugar levels. People with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels closely when using damiana, as it may interfere with blood sugar control.
3. Surgery: Damiana might affect blood sugar levels, posing a risk during and after surgery. It is recommended to stop using damiana at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.
4. Psychiatric Conditions: High doses of damiana have been linked to serious side effects, including convulsions. Individuals with psychiatric conditions should use damiana cautiously and under medical supervision.
5. Allergies: People with allergies to plants in the Turneraceae family should avoid damiana.
Safety:
1. General Use: Damiana is possibly safe when taken by mouth in medicinal amounts. However, serious side effects have been reported when taken in very high doses.
2. Side Effects: Some people might experience side effects such as convulsions and other symptoms when using damiana in high doses. Common side effects at normal doses are not well documented.
3. Toxicity Concerns: Damiana contains compounds such as arbutin, tannins, and cyanogenic glycosides, which can be potentially toxic. The safety of long-term use of damiana is not well established.
4. Drug Interactions: There are no well-documented drug interactions with damiana. However, due to its potential effects on blood sugar levels, it may interact with diabetes medications.
References:
1. “DAMIANA: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews” – https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-703/damiana
2. “Damiana: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage” – https://www.verywellhealth.com/damiana-what-should-i-know-about-it-89557
3. “Damiana Uses, Benefits & Dosage – Drugs.com Herbal Database” – https://www.drugs.com/npp/damiana.html
4. “Damiana: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Dose & Precautions” – https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/damiana.htm
5. “Damiana Uses, Side Effects & Warnings” – https://www.drugs.com/mtm/damiana.html
6. “Turnera diffusa (Damiana): Facts About Side Effects” – https://www.medicinenet.com/damiana_turnera_diffusa-oral/article.htm
7. “Damiana: An Ancient Aphrodisiac” – https://www.healthline.com/health/damiana-ancient-aphrodisiac
8. “Damiana Leaf benefits, dosage, and side effects” – https://examine.com/supplements/damiana-leaf/
9. “Turnera – an overview” – https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/turnera