Although the first thing that probably comes to mind when you think of damiana herb are the words aphrodisiac, antidepressant, and stimulant, the truth is it’s way more than that.
That’s why, given damiana’s many properties, we want to tell you how to take it to get all its therapeutic benefits and which recipes you can include it in so it never misses from your diet. Let’s get started!

What are the most common damiana formats?
You’re probably familiar with expressions like damiana tea or Mexican tea, as it’s also known, made from a herb that goes by other names too (oregano, shepherdess herb, little shepherd, damiane, or deer herb, for example). However, even though that’s been the traditional way our ancestors enjoyed the benefits of this natural remedy, today we have other options.
So, you can buy damiana as…
- Herbal tea
- Tinctures
- Oil infusions
- Extract included in capsules or tablets
- In liqueur form, as it has traditionally been consumed
- To a lesser extent, Shepherdess Herb can also be used for cooking and baking, as its compounds can be released into various foods or drinks
How much should you take?
Don’t make the mistake of thinking the dose doesn’t matter just because it’s a natural remedy. Keep in mind that, although it’s generally a very safe substance, it also has side effects and contraindications, which means it’s best to stick to the recommended daily dose.
Also, knowing the dosage is a great way to make sure this herb works better for you.
The truth is, with oregano it’s the same as with other substances where there’s no scientific evidence pointing to the optimal dose for the body. In any case, it seems the dose you want to take will be related to the symptoms or condition you’re trying to treat. Your body weight and whether you’re male or female will also influence the dosage. So, generally speaking, the bigger your body mass, the higher the dose you’ll need.
That said, although the daily dose of deer herb can vary depending on the product you consume, no toxicity has been found in studies done with this compound.
Still, it’s best not to overdo it with this supplement, as very high doses can cause minor side effects.
Kids and teens: No safe dose of damiana has been established for minors, so it shouldn’t be given to them regardless of the format.

Recipes to take ‘Turnera diffusa’
Taking shepherdess herb has traditionally been linked to teas or infusions, as well as alcoholic liqueurs made in the main growing or cultivation areas of the plant.
Learn how to make damiana tea
Making homemade damiana tea is super easy and lets you consume it regularly to get all its medicinal properties while staying hydrated.
Start from the fact that damiana leaves can be ground into a fine powder and then mixed with hot water, which lets you include it in any homemade recipe, since it’s been shown that cooking or baking it doesn’t make it lose its beneficial properties for the body.
Another option is to soak the whole leaves in hot water for a few minutes to make Mexican tea, just like you would with any other herb.
As for proportions, for each cup of tea you prepare, combine a cup of nearly boiling water with half a tablespoon of dried damiana leaves. Let the mixture steep for 10 to 15 minutes until it cools down. If you want to sweeten it, try adding a bit of honey. Its taste isn’t bad, but honey definitely improves it.
Combinations and other uses of Shepherdess Herb
One thing that stands out about this herb is its absolute versatility, both in formats to choose from and in possible combos that boost its effects.
In line with that, you can mix damiana leaf tea with holy basil, ashwagandha extract, and maca to turn it into an amazing aid for tackling the physical and mental effects of stress. Several studies suggest this mix, taken as tea or infusion, helps you relax.
Damiana oil is extracted from this herb by steam distillation. You can use it as a massage oil, but first make sure to dilute it in a safe carrier oil like argan oil or jojoba oil. This way, you avoid the chance of skin sensitivity.
Like to vape? If yes, you’ll be glad to know oregano is a good candidate. The great thing about vaping is it lets all the chemical compounds be effectively extracted for inhalation without losing their properties. Note that the ideal temperature to vape this herb is 190 degrees Celsius.

In liqueur form, a healthy treat
Damiana liqueur is another common and effective way to take the plant, plus it has the added appeal of being a real treat for the palate.
Make it at home with this recipe:
- Mix 60 g of dried herb leaves per liter of vodka
- Let it soak for at least ten days
- Strain it with a strainer and then with a coffee filter
- Take the alcohol-soaked leaves and place them in about 500 ml of water overnight
- Strain and filter the leaves from the water, discarding the leftovers
- Heat the water slowly with one or two cups of honey
- Slowly dissolve the sugar in the water
- Mix the vodka infusion with the honey infusion and let it rest for about two or three months
- Carefully decant the liqueur into a bottle
Now you have all the info you need on how to take damiana. Pick the format that suits your tastes and needs best and enjoy while taking care of yourself. It’s all about physical and mental well-being, which positively impacts every part of your life!
Discover all damiana formats in our online store.
Fitness, Nutrition, Health and Sports Blog In the HSNstore Blog you will find tips about Fitness, sport in general, nutrition, and health – HSNstore.com 