Yohimbe is a tree of tropical West Africa. It has long been considered an aphrodisiac and strengthener of sexual vigor, but there is no scientific evidence to support this. When the plant is made into a tea or a smoke, it gives off Yohimbine, which is an alkaloidal salt that has been used in the past for prescription formulas to enhance sexual performance.

Yohimbine functions by dilating the blood vessels of the skin and mucous membranes, thereby decreasing the blood pressure and increasing the blood to the surface of the sex organs. If, however, the individual is hypotensive (with low blood pressure) and fatigued, then temporary impotence may result.

Yohimbine also acts to increase reflex excitability of the lower spinal cord region and has a local anesthetic effect. Known uses of Yohimbe include: for impotence and sexual dysfunction; high blood pressure arteriosclerosis; angina pectoris; and as a local anesthetic effect.