Natural Medical SolutionsYohimbe is a tree from Africa. Its bark contains a substance called yohimbine. People use it for sexual health and weight loss.
What is yohimbe?
Yohimbe is an evergreen tree. The bark has been used for a long time as a sex aid. It is also used as a mild drug that changes how you see things.
Today, people sell it for weight loss and sports. It is also sold to help with mood.
What are the benefits of yohimbe?
There is very little research on yohimbe in people. We do not know if it works for any health goal.
It is illegal in the U.S. to sell it for erectile dysfunction without FDA approval. No studies prove it helps with weight loss or sports.
What are the side effects of yohimbe?
Yohimbe can cause very serious health issues. It is linked to heart attacks and seizures.
Other side effects include:
- Fast or uneven heartbeat
- High blood pressure
- Stomach pain
- Feeling very worried
Many people who take it end up needing medical care. Because of these risks, many countries have banned it.
How much yohimbe do people take?
There is no standard dose. Most products do not even say how much yohimbine they contain.
A study of 49 brands showed the amount varies a lot. Some products use fake or processed plant parts. You cannot know what you are getting.
Who should not take yohimbe?
Do not use yohimbe if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It may not be safe.
Talk to your doctor if you take any medicine. Always tell your health care team about any herbs you use.
Is yohimbe regulated?
The FDA does not approve yohimbe before it is sold. It is not treated like a medicine. The FDA only acts if there is a public health risk.
Does Yohimbe interact with any medications?
Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking yohimbe if you take any prescription medicine. The list below is not complete.
Do not take yohimbe with these drugs. It can cause harmful reactions.
Avoid yohimbe if you take these medicines. It can interact with them in a bad way.
Common questions about yohimbe
Does yohimbe help with erectile dysfunction?
Is yohimbe safe?
Can I take yohimbe with my medicine?
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Where this information comes from
Written from NCCIH, a public-domain resource from the U.S. National Institutes of Health. Information retrieved 2026-08-21.
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