Quebracho is a tree. Its bark is used for medicine.
Contents
Uses
- Erectile dysfunction
In some countries, the extract is used as a prescription drug to treat erectile dysfunction. A 2002 study in Germany found that pro-erectile effects of the bark extract may predominantly be caused by the yohimbe. But it’s unclear if the yohimbe is enough on its own to help. - Fat loss
- Yohimbe and other alkaloids in the bark extract are said to block specific receptors that actually inhibit fat loss. A three-week study in 1991 observed 20 obese females on 1,000-calorie diets. They were given 20 mg of yohimbe each day and lost three pounds more than the group receiving placebos. Not a drastic weight loss, but enough to give experts hope that yohimbe can help with weight control. Other studies have found that yohimbe increases the amount of non-esterfied fatty acids, a result of fat breaking down. More research is needed.
Benefits
People take quebracho for asthma and conditions of the lower respiratory tract. They also take it to loosen chest congestion and as a respiratory tract stimulant.
Sometimes quebracho is used to treat high blood pressure, spasms, fluid retention, fever, and pain. It is also used to increase sex drive.
In foods and beverages, quebracho is used as a flavoring.
Cautions
Quebracho is safe in food amounts. But there isn’t enough information to know if quebracho is safe in medicinal amounts. It can cause some side effects including drooling, headache, sweating, dizziness, stupor, and sleepiness. In large doses, it can cause nausea and vomiting.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Quebracho is safe in food amounts, but there’s not enough information to know if it’s safe in the larger amounts that are used as medicine. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, stick with food amounts until more is known.
Interactions
No interactions are known. Please consult your pharmacist.
Other names
Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco, Quebracho Blanc, Quebracho Blanco, White Quebracho
References
Source: Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quebracho_tree
Mensfitness, http://www.mensfitness.com/nutrition/supplements/aspidosperma-quebracho-blanco-extract