Also known as Pausinystalia yohimbe or Pausinystalia johimbe, the African tree’s bark contains the chemical yohimbine traditionally used as an aphrodisiac.
The yohimbine works by increasing blood flow and nerve impulses to sexual organs. Several controlled studies suggest it’s more effective in alleviating erectile dysfunction than a placebo. Additionally, yohimbine is believed to counteract the sexual side effects of some antidepressants.
Even without enough scientific evidence, some people use it for weight loss and boosting athletic performance.
Safety & Precautions
Yohimbine-containing supplements were mostly reported to cause gastrointestinal distress, increased heart rate, anxiety, and high blood pressure. Most of the reported cases, however, included yohimbine used in addition to other ingredients which may have caused the side effects.