Yohimbe Glycerite Liquid Extract
Also known as: Yohimbe, Yohimbe bark extract, Yohimbe glycerite liquid extract, Pausinystalia johimbe, Yohimbine
Overview
Yohimbine is an indole alkaloid derived from the bark of the *Pausinystalia johimbe* tree, native to West Africa. It is the primary active compound in Yohimbe bark extracts, including liquid preparations like Yohimbe glycerite liquid extract. Traditionally used for various medicinal purposes, it is primarily marketed as a dietary supplement for erectile dysfunction (ED) and, to a lesser extent, for weight loss or athletic performance enhancement. Yohimbine functions as a selective alpha-2-adrenergic receptor antagonist, which leads to increased sympathetic nervous system activity and enhanced peripheral blood flow. While moderate research, including randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews, supports its use for ED, evidence for other applications is limited or inconsistent. Its efficacy in ED is considered moderate, with stronger effects observed when combined with other treatments. However, it has a narrow therapeutic window and is associated with significant safety concerns.
Benefits
The primary evidence-based benefit of Yohimbine is its efficacy in treating erectile dysfunction (ED). A 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis, encompassing 8 randomized controlled trials, found that Yohimbine alone significantly improved erectile function compared to placebo (OR=2.08, 95% CI 1.30-3.32, p=0.002). When combined with other supplements, its effect was even stronger (OR=6.35, 95% CI 3.01-13.41, p<0.001). The pooled analysis also indicated an overall improvement in sexual function (OR=2.65, 95% CI 1.43-4.92, p=0.002). These benefits are primarily observed in men with organic ED. While some animal and limited human data suggest potential for increased salivary flow and benefits in orthostatic hypotension, their clinical relevance is unclear and lacks strong supporting evidence. The effect size for ED improvement is moderate, and clinical significance may be enhanced when Yohimbine is used in conjunction with other treatments. Long-term efficacy and safety data are limited, as most studies are short-term.
How it works
Yohimbine primarily exerts its effects by blocking alpha-2-adrenergic receptors. These receptors normally inhibit the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that constricts blood vessels. By blocking these receptors, Yohimbine increases norepinephrine levels, leading to enhanced sympathetic nervous system activity. This increased activity results in vasodilation, particularly in penile tissue, which facilitates erection. Yohimbine's interaction with the body systems includes increasing heart rate and blood pressure due to sympathetic stimulation, and it also affects central nervous system adrenergic receptors. While oral bioavailability varies, liquid glycerite extracts may offer improved absorption compared to dry extracts, though specific pharmacokinetic data for the glycerite form are limited.
Side effects
Yohimbe/yohimbine has a narrow therapeutic window and carries a significant risk of serious adverse effects. Common side effects, occurring in over 5% of users, include tachycardia (rapid heart rate), hypertension (high blood pressure), flushing, sweating, nausea, headache, anxiety, and restlessness. Less common side effects (1-5%) include orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing) and general gastrointestinal upset. Rare but severe side effects, occurring in less than 1% of users, can include panic attacks, seizures, brain damage, and even death, particularly in cases of overdose or drug interactions. Yohimbine interacts with various medications; it can alter the metabolism of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4 inhibitors, reduce the effects of clonidine, and increase cardiovascular risks when combined with antidepressants and stimulants. Contraindications for use include individuals with pre-existing anxiety, depression, hypertension, hypotension, PTSD, or cardiovascular disease. It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those with psychiatric or cardiovascular conditions due to safety concerns.
Dosage
Clinical trials for erectile dysfunction (ED) have typically used yohimbine hydrochloride doses ranging from 5 to 20 mg daily. The optimal dosage for ED is approximately 15-20 mg/day of yohimbine hydrochloride, often administered in divided doses. For Yohimbe glycerite liquid extract, dosing depends on its specific yohimbine concentration, and it should be titrated to achieve an equivalent yohimbine dose. Doses exceeding 30 mg/day significantly increase the risk of adverse effects, and there is no established maximum safe dose for the glycerite form, necessitating caution. Timing of administration varies, with some taking it before sexual activity. While liquid glycerite extracts may offer better absorption, standardization of yohimbine content is crucial. Food may affect absorption, but strong data specific to the glycerite form are lacking. No specific cofactors are required, but concurrent use with stimulants should be avoided.
FAQs
Is Yohimbe glycerite liquid extract effective for ED?
Yes, evidence supports moderate efficacy for erectile dysfunction, especially when combined with other treatments, as shown in systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
Is it safe?
Yohimbe has a narrow therapeutic window and can cause significant side effects, including cardiovascular and neurological issues. It should be used with caution and under medical supervision.
Can it aid weight loss?
There is insufficient evidence in humans to support its use for weight loss. While some animal data show modest effects, clinical relevance is not established.
When should I take it?
It is typically administered in divided doses, and timing relative to sexual activity varies. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Does it interact with medications?
Yes, Yohimbe can interact with various medications, including blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, and stimulants, potentially increasing cardiovascular risks. Always consult a doctor.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9612744/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis by Wibowo et al. (2021) included 8 RCTs on Yohimbine for ED. It found that Yohimbine alone significantly improved erectile function (OR=2.08) and showed stronger effects when combined with other supplements (OR=6.35). The study highlighted heterogeneity in designs but rated the quality of evidence as moderate to high.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-759/yohimbe – This source provides an overview of Yohimbe, including its traditional uses and modern applications. It discusses the mechanism of action, primarily its role as an alpha-2-adrenergic receptor antagonist, and touches upon its potential benefits for ED while emphasizing significant safety concerns and side effects.
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/yohimbe.html – This reference details the pharmacology, uses, and adverse effects of Yohimbe. It confirms its primary use for erectile dysfunction and highlights the narrow therapeutic window, emphasizing the potential for serious cardiovascular and neurological side effects, and lists contraindications for its use.
- https://www.opss.org/article/yohimbe-and-yohimbine-dietary-supplement-products – This article from OPSS (Operation Supplement Safety) discusses Yohimbe and yohimbine in dietary supplements. It provides information on its classification, common uses, and importantly, details the safety concerns, including common and rare side effects, drug interactions, and populations who should avoid its use due to health risks.
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/yohimbe – This source offers a general overview of Yohimbe, covering its potential benefits for ED and weight loss, while also addressing its significant side effects. It emphasizes the importance of consulting a healthcare professional due to the supplement's potent effects and safety profile.