Yohimbe Root Bark Extract
Also known as: Yohimbe, Yohimbine, Yohimbe Root Bark Extract, Pausinystalia yohimbe
Overview
Yohimbe Root Bark Extract is derived from the bark of the African Yohimbe tree, Pausinystalia yohimbe. Its primary active compound is yohimbine, an indole alkaloid. Traditionally, it has been used as an aphrodisiac and for treating erectile dysfunction (ED), and is also marketed for weight loss and bodybuilding. While the extract contains multiple alkaloids, yohimbine is considered the main bioactive component responsible for its pharmacological effects. Research on yohimbine's efficacy for ED is relatively robust, with several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses supporting its use. However, direct clinical studies on the whole Yohimbe bark extract itself are limited, and its alkaloid content can vary significantly in commercial products. The overall evidence quality for ED treatment is moderate, but data for other uses is scarce.
Benefits
The primary evidence-based benefit of yohimbine, the active compound in Yohimbe Root Bark Extract, is the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). Meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) consistently show that yohimbine is statistically superior to placebo in improving erectile function. Odds ratios for improvement range from approximately 2.08 to 3.85, indicating a 2- to nearly 4-fold increased likelihood of improvement compared to placebo, with all findings being statistically significant (p < 0.05) [1, 3, 4]. These benefits have been particularly studied in men with organic ED, including diabetic patients. Some limited evidence also suggests a potential benefit for orgasmic disorders, such as delayed ejaculation [2]. Most RCTs are short-term (weeks to a few months), demonstrating benefits within this timeframe, but long-term efficacy and safety data are less available.
How it works
Yohimbine, the primary active alkaloid in Yohimbe Root Bark Extract, functions as an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist. By blocking presynaptic alpha-2 receptors, yohimbine increases the release of norepinephrine, which in turn enhances sympathetic nervous system activity. This leads to vasodilation and improved blood flow, particularly in the penile tissue, thereby facilitating erection [1, 4]. Additionally, yohimbine may increase central nervous system adrenergic activity, which could contribute to its reported aphrodisiac effects. While yohimbine has moderate oral bioavailability, its plasma concentrations can be variable and may not directly correlate with the administered dose, possibly due to individual differences in metabolism [2].
Side effects
Yohimbine is generally considered reasonably safe at therapeutic doses for erectile dysfunction, with most adverse events being mild, reversible, and infrequent. Common side effects, reported in over 5% of users, include increased heart rate (tachycardia), elevated blood pressure, anxiety, headache, dizziness, and gastrointestinal upset [1, 4]. Less common side effects (1-5%) may include insomnia, tremors, and sweating. Rare but serious side effects, occurring in less than 1% of users, can include severe hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, and seizures, particularly in cases of overdose or in individuals with pre-existing conditions. Yohimbe should be used with caution due to potential drug interactions. It can interact with antihypertensives, stimulants, and MAO inhibitors, potentially leading to additive effects on blood pressure and central nervous system stimulation. It is contraindicated in individuals with cardiovascular disease, anxiety disorders, renal impairment, and during pregnancy. Special populations, such as the elderly or those with psychiatric conditions, should exercise extreme caution.
Dosage
Clinical trials commonly use yohimbine doses ranging from 5.4 mg to 6 mg, administered three times daily, totaling approximately 15-18 mg per day [1, 3]. The optimal dosage range is generally considered to be 15-20 mg/day, divided into multiple doses, consistent with protocols used in randomized controlled trials. Doses are typically administered multiple times daily due to yohimbine's relatively short half-life. Doses above 30 mg/day are generally not recommended without strict medical supervision, as higher dosages significantly increase the risk of adverse effects. It is important to note that most clinical data are based on isolated yohimbine, not whole bark extract, which can vary widely in its alkaloid content [2]. Oral bioavailability is variable, and the impact of food on absorption is not well characterized.
FAQs
Is Yohimbe Root Bark Extract the same as Yohimbine?
No, Yohimbe Root Bark Extract contains multiple alkaloids, and its yohimbine content can vary. Most clinical evidence for efficacy is based on purified yohimbine.
Is it safe to use for ED?
When used as directed and within recommended dosages, yohimbine is generally safe for ED, but caution is necessary due to its potential cardiovascular and CNS stimulant effects.
How quickly does it work?
Effects on erectile function can typically be observed within a few weeks of consistent treatment, as shown in short-term clinical trials.
Does it help with sexual desire?
While yohimbine primarily improves erectile function, its effects on libido or sexual desire are less clearly established and require further research.
Can it be used for weight loss?
There is insufficient high-quality scientific evidence to support the use of Yohimbe Root Bark Extract or yohimbine for weight loss claims.
Research Sources
- https://www.auajournals.org/doi/10.1016/S0022-5347(01)63942-9 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 7 RCTs concluded that yohimbine is superior to placebo for treating erectile dysfunction, with an odds ratio of 3.85 (95% CI 2.22-6.67). It noted that adverse events were infrequent and reversible, though some heterogeneity was observed among the older studies included.
- https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/a8c6/7928ffe99ff8260fd2469806aa4545280cd6.pdf – This source highlights the variability in yohimbine content within commercial Yohimbe supplements, often finding them diluted or inconsistent with label claims. It also discusses yohimbine's moderate oral bioavailability and variable plasma concentrations, suggesting metabolism variability as a factor.
- https://urologyresearchandpractice.org/en/yohimbine-as-a-treatment-for-erectile-dysfunction-a-systematic-review-and-meta-analysis-133777 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 8 RCTs found that yohimbine alone (OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.30-3.32) and in combination with other supplements (OR 6.35, 95% CI 3.01-13.41) significantly improved erectile function. It noted no significant improvement in sexual function alone and acknowledged some heterogeneity among studies.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9612744/ – This article discusses yohimbine's mechanism as an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist, leading to increased norepinephrine release and enhanced penile blood flow. It also reiterates the findings of meta-analyses regarding yohimbine's efficacy for ED and its common side effects like increased heart rate and blood pressure.
Supplements Containing Yohimbe Root Bark Extract
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