There is little research proving yohimbe’s effectiveness.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
What Is Yohimbe Used For?
Verywell / JR Bee
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Traditionally, yohimbe was used as anaphrodisiac(substance that stimulates sexual desire).
Today, it is still marketed for sexual health and other uses.
So far, scientific evidence supporting the potential benefits of yohimbe is lacking.
However, there is no evidence to show that the herbal supplement is effective.
Most clinical studies have looked into the prescription drug yohimbine hydrochloride and not the herbal extract yohimbe.
For example, an analysis of eight studies examined yohimbine’s use alone and combined with other interventions.
(Again, yohimbine is a prescription drug in the United States, and yohimbe is a supplement.)
Talk to your healthcare provider first if you are seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction.
Overall, the findings on yohimbine’s effects on weight loss have been mixed.
Additionally, 18% of the brands did not provide information about potential side effects.
Only 4% of the brands provided accurate information about the quantity of yohimbine and its side effects.
Who Should Not Take Yohimbe?
Yohimbe is not recommended because it has a very narrow therapeutic index.
Summary
There is no scientific research that suggests a benefit of supplementing with yohimbe.
The risks of yohimbe supplementation outweigh the potential benefits.
There are other medications and treatments available with fewer side effects and safety concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yohimbe is considered to be likely unsafe.
Evidence shows it can cause dangerous side effects or interact with prescribed medications.
Yohimbe isn’t banned in the United States.
Due to inaccurate labeling of yohimbe products, some countries have banned yohimbe products altogether.
No natural remedy has proven effective and safe for erectile dysfunction.
If this doesn’t help, consult a healthcare provider for an appropriate treatment regimen.
Using it for weight loss can be unsafe since it can lead to serious side effects.
Avoid relying on quick fixes that supplements often promise.
Tam S, Worcel M, Wyllie M.Yohimbine: A clinical review.Pharmacology & Therapeutics.
2001;91(3):215-243. doi:10.1016/s0163-7258(01)00156-5
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Yohimbe.
2018; 200(3).
2009;6:10. doi: 10.1186/1550-2783-6-10.
Erratum for:J Int Soc Sports Nutr.
2009;6:4
Pittler MH, ErnstE.
Dietary supplements for body-weight reduction: A systematic review.Am J Clin Nutr.
A report of the ANPA Committee on Research.J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci.
2010;44(6):1022-1029. doi: 10.1345/aph.1P060
Yohimbine.
In:LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; 2012.
1996;25(1):1-16. doi:10.1007/BF02437904
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.Yohimbe.
Results of a controlled trial.Journal of Urology.
1987;137(6):1168-1172. doi:10.1016/S0022-5347(17)44436-3
Natural Medicines Database.Yohimbe.
Sax L.Yohimbine does not affect fat distribution in men.Int J Obes.
1991;15(9):561-565.
