Synonym(s)
DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
Turnera diffusa is a mostly multi-branched, small shrub with growth heights of 1 to 2 meters. Turnera diffusa belongs to the genus of saffron mallow (Turnera). They are native from southern North America to Argentina and the Antilles. The mostly lanceolate leaves are between 1 and 2 centimeters long. The leaf edge is serrated or notched.
This species is mainly known for its attributed effect as a natural aphrodisiac, but it is also used as a tonic for colds due to the essential oils it contains, such as cineol and thymol, and as a tonic due to its caffeine content.
The hermaphrodite, bright yellow flowers have very short stalks and are around 4-8 mm long. The flowering period ranges from early to late summer.
Turnera diffusa is the parent plant of Turnerae diffusae folium, for which a positive monograph of Commission D is available.
Cosmetics industry: see Turnera diffusa extract (INCI)
The Native Americans used Damania as a tonic for muscle weakness and convalescence, the Maya made love potions from the plant.
Note(s)This section has been translated automatically.
The common name Damiana is derived from the patron saint of pharmacists, St. Damian, and "Turnera" from the English botanist Turner.
Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer
Prof. Dr. med. Martina Bacharach-Buhles