Yohimbe Bark Standardized Extract
Also known as: Yohimbe bark extract, Pausinystalia johimbe, Yohimbine hydrochloride, Yohimbine extract, Yohimbine
Overview
Yohimbe bark is derived from the tree *Pausinystalia johimbe*, native to tropical West Africa. The active compound yohimbine is well-regarded in herbal medicine for its reputed aphrodisiac properties and effectiveness in treating erectile dysfunction. It has also been explored for enhancing athletic performance and assisting in weight loss. Yohimbine acts primarily as an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist, which influences erectile function, lipolysis, and overall sympathetic nervous system activity. Research supporting the use of yohimbine is moderate to high, with multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses that highlight its effectiveness, particularly for erectile dysfunction. While the research quality is generally good, individual study outcomes can vary significantly, revealing the nuanced nature of its effects.
Benefits
Yohimbine's most notable benefit is its efficacy in treating erectile dysfunction, with systematic reviews indicating a significant advantage over placebo (odds ratio of 3.85). Additionally, athletes may experience enhanced performance, particularly in sprinting, alongside reduced fatigue during high-intensity exercise. Secondary benefits include metabolic support and anti-inflammatory properties, especially in populations with arthritis, where yohimbine has demonstrated the ability to inhibit inflammatory cytokines. The collective evidence emphasizes yohimbine’s impactful role for those suffering from erectile dysfunction and athletes looking for performance enhancements, showcasing its versatile applications.
How it works
Yohimbine operates as an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist, inhibiting presynaptic alpha-1 adrenoceptor activity and promoting the release of nitric oxide (NO). This leads to elevated levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which facilitates the dilation of blood vessels in the genital area, enhancing blood flow and erectile function. Furthermore, yohimbine stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, ramping up adrenergic signaling that impacts both athletic performance and various metabolic pathways.
Side effects
Yohimbine is considered safe at recommended doses; however, doses exceeding general recommendations can provoke adverse side effects. Common occurrences, affecting over 5% of users, include anxiety, insomnia, tremors, and increased heart rate. Less frequently (1-5% of users), symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness may be observed. Rare but serious complications, including severe priapism and potential kidney issues, have also been reported. Caution is advised for individuals with pre-existing conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, or psychiatric disorders. Drug interactions are possible, notably with adrenergic agents, MAO inhibitors, and various antidepressants, making concurrent use a critical consideration.
Dosage
For addressing erectile dysfunction, a typical recommended dosage of yohimbine ranges from 5 to 10 mg per day. In terms of athletic performance enhancement, recommended dosages generally fall between 0.2 to 0.3 mg/kg body weight, ideally taken 30-60 minutes prior to exercise. While no maximum dose has been firmly established, exceeding 20 mg per day can escalate the risk of negative side effects. Yohimbine is available in various delivery forms, including capsules and tablets, with effective oral absorption; however, bioavailability can vary among individuals. No specific co-factors are necessary for its absorption.
FAQs
Is it safe to take yohimbine?
Yohimbine is generally safe at recommended doses; however, high doses can lead to serious side effects. Caution is advised for individuals with health conditions.
When should I take yohimbine for athletic performance?
For athletic benefits, take yohimbine 30-60 minutes before exercise.
How long does it take to see results from yohimbine?
Users typically observe improvements in erectile function and athletic performance within a few weeks of starting yohimbine.
Can yohimbine be used as a steroid substitute?
No, yohimbine is not a steroid and should not be used as a substitute for anabolic substances.
Research Sources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5379182/ – This systematic review explores the efficacy of yohimbine in treating erectile dysfunction, demonstrating it to be significantly more effective than placebo. The study compiles multiple trials and establishes yohimbine's safety and dosage guidelines.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15034314/ – This meta-analysis evaluates the effects of yohimbine on athletic performance, providing evidence for improvements in sprinting and metabolic function. It emphasizes yohimbine’s role in enhancing physical performance and the mechanisms involved.
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