Yohimbe Bark Powder

Yohimbe (pronounced yoh-HIM-bay) is a tropical evergreen tree native to western Africa, specially the coastal forests of Cameroon, Gabon, and the Republic of the Congo. Inner shavings of the tree’s reddish-brown bark have traditionally been used during rituals as a mild hallucinogen, stimulant, and sexual performance enhancer.

Studies have shown that an alkaloid in yohimbe bark, yohimbine, increases peripheral blood flow and — in addition to dilating the pupil of the eye — is an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). In fact, the FDA approved plant-derived yohimbine for erection difficulties a dozen years before Viagra.

Yohimbe bark powder is traditionally prepared as a tea. It may also be encapsulated or, although bitter, added directly to food and drink.

Yohimbe should only be taken under professional supervision. The side effects in high doses are potentially severe, including a sudden drop in blood pressure, abdominal pain, fatigue, hallucination, and paralysis.