Yohimbine – what it is, how it works, how to dose.
Basic information about the agent in the shortest, most concise form.
1.General description
Yohimbine is a substance extracted from the bark of the Yohimba tree, a naturally occurring tree in Africa. In chemical nomenclature it is a compound defined as an alkaloid. For centuries, folk medicine has recommended it for erection or libido problems. On the market you can find it both under the polonized name – yohimbine, as well as the original – yohimbine. Developed in pharmacological form it was released to the market already in 1930. In Poland it is available in many legally available dietary supplements. There is also another variant – yohimbine hydrochloride drops, for the purchase of which you need a prescription. Doctors prescribe it for problems with impotence, but it is not currently available in Poland.
- Mechanism of action
Its effects can be observed immediately (within 15 minutes after ingestion), but regular intake is what brings real effects . Ingestion of yohimbine in a short time causes dilation of blood vessels, increased production of epinephrine and increased levels of norepinephrine. Clinical studies on this substance regarding its effects on male sexual activity have been performed since the late 20th century. The most recent results concerning yohimbine treatment of sexual dysfunctions occurring in men were performed and published in 2007 by researchers (Adeniyi AA, Brindley GS, Pryor JP, Ralph DJ) from a London urology clinic. The study showed that yohimbine significantly improves sexual performance and activity.
It has been shown that the action of yohimbine directly affects the appearance of an erection – already after 30 minutes from taking the drops. The effects of a single intake last up to 4 hours. This substance has a stimulating effect on the erection centre located in the spinal cord. In addition, it has been observed that some people taking yohimbine have an increased libido as well as increased feelings about sexual contacts.
- Lipolytic activity
Liposis is a process that occurs naturally in every body. It involves the burning of fat, and yohimbine intensifies and accelerates this process. It is noted that it is burned mainly fat occurring on the buttocks, abdomen and thighs. The reason for the action on these areas is the alkaloid blocks alpha-2-adrenergic receptors, and thus combining them with adrenaline. It was noted that when using yohimbine, with a decrease in body weight, muscle mass does not decrease. It is even possible to increase it. Therefore, this substance is currently used by many bodybuilders. Weight-loss products containing Yohimbine often also contain other substances that enhance fat burning, such as caffeine or plant extracts.
- Effects of application
The main positives of its action include:
-increase libido
-quicker and more efficient fat burning
-reduction of sexual dysfunction
-improving mood
- Contraindications
As yohimbine widens blood vessels and increases blood pressure, it should not be used by people with hypertension or heart or circulatory diseases. At the same time it is also not recommended for people with hormonal disorders and diseases of the digestive system. You should not eat carbohydrates 2-3 hours after taking yohimbine (they reduce its effectiveness in burning fat. It is absolutely forbidden to consume alcohol at the same time or to combine yohimbine treatment with psychiatric treatment, hormonal drugs and agents affecting blood pressure, heart and pancreas.
It burns fat from thighs, buttocks and abdomen. Its slimming effect is based on the intensification of lipolysis – the fat burning process. This is because yohimbine blocks alpha-2-adrenergic receptors, preventing them from connecting with the hormones: adrenaline and noradrenaline. These receptors are accumulated in increased amounts in the sensitive parts of the body, so you lose excess fat in these areas.
- Possible adverse reactions
People who plan to take yohimbine, and who have not been diagnosed with a medical condition that prevents its use, should start with small doses. Although the considered safe dose is 20 mg per day it is worth a few times to consume a very small amount of yohimbine to see if there are no side effects of taking this substance. It may turn out that a person is suffering from, for example, one of the diseases of the circulatory system, which has not yet been diagnosed. In addition, smaller doses should be used by people with low body weight. Both during clinical trials and medical interviews several side effects of yohimbine were identified. These include rapid pulse rate and the sensation of a faster, more uneven and stronger heartbeat. Nervousness, insomnia, hyperactivity and irritability may also occur. Abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, or severe headaches and dizziness have also been reported. Yohimbine can also increase sweating of the skin and even make it red and sensitive to pain. In extreme cases, convulsions, loss of consciousness, severe chest pains, or breathing problems have been noted.