False johimbe

Pausinystalia macroceras

Physical Characteristics

Pausinystalia macroceras is an evergreen Tree growing to 18 m (59ft) by 15 m (49ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. Suitable for: medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

West tropical Africa - southern Nigeria, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Congo, DR Congo, northern Angola.

Habitats

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Aphrodisiac Cardiac Hallucinogenic Hypotensive Parasiticide Stimulant Vasodilator The bark is very widely used as an aphrodisiac and anti-hypnotic[332 ]. The bark sap is applied topically to treat cutaneous and subcutaneous parasitic infections[332 ]. This species is closely related to Pausinystalia johimbe, and is said to have the same medicinal properties and uses[303 ]. These are:- The bark contains up to 6% of a mixture of indole alkaloids, the principle one being yohimbine (which is also known as aphrodine), plus pigments and tannins[254 , 418 ]. The alkaloids have a cerebral stimulant action at low doses, but are highly toxic in large doses[254 ]. Yohimbine has been shown to block the release of adrenalin and, in the correct dose, act as a sexual stimulant[238 ]. It is the source of the only clinically-proven cure for impotence and has long been used as a traditional stimulant in Africa[418 ]. Yohimbe is a bitter, warming, anti-diuretic, hypotensive and vasodilating herb with reputedly aphrodisiac effects[238 ]. It has a stimulant effect upon the heart, increasing heart rate and blood pressure; has a locally anaesthetic action similar to that of cocaine but without being mydriatic; is a mild stimulant that can help to prevent drowsiness; and is hallucinogenic. The vasodilating action of yohimbe is particularly strong on the sex organs, hence its aphrodisiac action[238 , 303 ]. The bark is taken internally, either as a powder or as a decoction. It is used particularly in the treatment of impotence, frigidity and angina[238 , 418 ]. It is also used as a performance enhancer for athletes, and as a remedy to increase the clarity of the voices of singers during long festivals[303 , 418 ]. The bark can be harvested at any time of the year[254 ]. The use of this herb is subject to legal restrictions in some countries[238 , 254 ].

Known Hazards

None known