Could Damiana Tea Be the Natural Workout Drink You’ve Been Looking For?

By Your Health Magazine Contributor

Your Health Magazine Contributor

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Could Damiana Tea Be the Natural Workout Drink You’ve Been Looking For?

During a recent herbal tea photography session featuring several tea herbs, including damiana, a fresh batch of damiana tea was prepared and later enjoyed before a beach run. Beach running has become a seasonal routine for some people as a way to warm up before swimming or surfing during cooler months.

Running in sand can be physically demanding, and some people report that certain pre-workout routines or beverage choices leave them feeling more energized than others. In this case, the experience felt noticeably more enjoyable and less draining than usual.

That raised an interesting question:

Could damiana tea play a role in how some people feel during or after exercise?

Damiana tea has traditionally been consumed for enjoyment and wellness purposes, but interest has grown around whether this botanical may have qualities that make it appealing as part of a broader pre- or post-workout routine.

What is Damiana?

Damiana (Turnera diffusa syn. Turnera aphrodisiaca), a member of the Passifloraceae family, is a low-lying shrub native to Mexico, the Caribbean, Central & South America, and southern parts of the US.

The plant has small, fragrant, serrated leaves that average an inch in length. Starting in early summer, striking aromatic yellow flowers appear that eventually produce small fruits said to taste like figs. The valuable leaves are harvested during the flowering cycle.

Historical Uses

The use of damiana tea dates back well over a thousand years.

1,800 years ago, the Mayans were using Damiana (Misibkok), which means “the broom,” as an expectorant to assist in clearing the lungs and help ease respiratory conditions like asthma. It was also used to help people suffering with vertigo and loss of balance.

700 years ago, Aztec healers were using damiana (Hierba de la venada, “the deer’s herb”) as a physical tonic traditionally associated with stamina and vitality.

In 1697, Father Juan María de Salvatierra, a Spanish missionary, observed the Guaycura tribe of Baja California using damiana, which they associated with stamina, endurance, and overall vitality.

In 1888, damiana was admitted into the first edition of the US National Formulary as a natural supplement for fatigue and nervous tension.

In 1977, damiana was approved by the FDA as a safe and natural food flavoring under the Code of Federal Regulations, 21 CFR 172.510.

Damiana and Modern Science

What can modern science tell us about damiana’s possible benefits during and after a workout?

In 2006, researchers identified a flavonoid in damiana called apigenin, which has been studied for its interaction with the nervous system.

Heavy exercise can increase stress responses in the body, leading some researchers to explore whether botanical compounds may influence recovery and overall exercise experience.

In 2009, researchers studying damiana extract explored possible associations with recovery following physical activity.

In 2023, a review of laboratory research reported that damiana extracts contain antioxidant compounds that researchers continue to study for their biological activity.

The Verdict

After reviewing damiana’s historical use and available research, some people may find that damiana tea fits naturally into their personal wellness or exercise routine.

For individuals who prefer alternatives to caffeinated beverages or traditional sports drinks, herbal teas like damiana may be one option worth exploring as part of a balanced lifestyle.

How to Make Damiana Tea

Ingredients:
16 oz of water
1 tablespoon of wild-crafted damiana leaf

Directions:
Bring water to a rolling boil, then remove from heat.
Add damiana.
Cover and steep for at least 15 minutes.
Strain and drink approximately 30 minutes before exercise if desired.

Cautions:
This herb may lower blood glucose levels; people with blood sugar-related conditions should consult their doctor before long-term use.
Should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

What does damiana tea taste like?

Damiana makes a slightly spicy tea with a mild herbal flavor. Depending on the leaf, it can be a little bitter. If desired, simply increase the water-to-leaf ratio.

Damiana tea is 100% natural and is generally consumed as an herbal tea by healthy adults. When purchased in bulk, even high-quality damiana can remain reasonably priced.

Do you have a preferred beverage before exercise or sports activity? Have you tried damiana tea?