Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco extract

Aspidosperma Quebracho Blanco extract, which is usually referred to simply as Quebracho, comes from the bark of an evergreen tree that grows in the northern regions of Argentina. The primary active ingredient in Aspidosperma is Yohimbe.

What does it do?

There is not enough information to say for sure exactly how Aspidosperma Quebracho Blanco extract works, but it is used all over the world to treat asthma, lung diseases, coughs, fevers and other ailments. Aspidosperma quebracho blanco extract and yohimbe in particular are most commonly touted for treating erectile dysfunction and supporting fat loss.

Erectile dysfunction

In some countries, the extract is used as a prescription drug for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. A study conducted in Germany in 2002 on the effects of aspidosperma quebracho blanco extract came to the conclusion that the pro-erectile effects are probably primarily based on the yohimbe it contains. However, it is unclear whether yohimbe on its own is enough to help.

Fat loss

Yohimbe and other alkaloids contained in the bark are said to block specific receptors that inhibit fat breakdown. A three-week study in 1991 examined 20 overweight women on a 1000 kcal diet. They were given 20 mg of Yohimbe per day and lost 3 pounds more weight than women who were only given a placebo. While this is not drastic fat loss, it is enough to give experts hope that Yohimbe could help control body weight. Other studies have found that Yohimbe increases the amount of unesterified fatty acids as a result of fat loss. However, further research is needed before a definitive statement can be made.

Recommended intake

There is not enough information to determine an appropriate dosage range for aspidosperma quebracho blanco extract. Dosages in the range of 50 to 250 mg are often recommended for herbal preparations, with dosages depending on age, health status and other circumstances. Some weight loss products contain this extract.

Risks and side effects

Aspidosperma quebracho blanco extract can cause significant side effects including cardiac arrhythmia, seizures and high blood pressure. People who suffer from high blood pressure or kidney disease should avoid products containing yohimbe. There are also some concerns about combining substances such as aspidosperma quebracho blanco extract with stimulants or antidepressants, as this can lead to changes in blood pressure.