Is Yohimbine Effective for Weight Loss? (Our Science-Based Review)

For a century or longer people have been looking for a magic weight loss pill. A slimming elixir to solve all our problems and help us live the lives we want without dieting or exercise.

Could we have found our magic pill?

Was it hiding in the erectile dysfunction this whole time?

What is Yohimbine?

Yohimbine is a compound found in the bark of the Yohimbe tree native to western Africa. Traditionally, it is used to treat erectile dysfunction and increase sexual desire.

Benefits of Yohimbine

Yohimbine’s ability to help achieve erections is largely due to its ability to improve blood flow and circulation. Yohimbine is an aphrodisiac, meaning it increases desire and sexual arousal.

Due to the stimulatory effect yohimbine has on your neurotransmitters, it has also shown benefits for fat loss.

Yohimbine and Weight Loss

Yohimbine supplement may play a role in reducing fat mass in both lean and obese individuals.

Many other studies have failed to provide evidence that it aids in weight loss.

Note: More research is needed.

Yohimbine and Lipolysis

Yohimbine increases fat loss by acting on the alpha-2-adrenergic receptors which preserve fat burning effects, thus resulting in increased lipolysis. Furthermore, it has an indirect link to fat burning by stimulating the release of adrenaline. The release of adrenaline opens many pathways for the release of visceral fat.

One caveat to these miracle findings is that it appears to only work in a fasted state. It will increase insulin production during meal absorption.

Insulin acts as a shuttle for storing glucose into the cell, which will lead to fat storage if one consumes more calories than the body needs.

Yohimbine and Your Hormones

Yohimbine increases noradrenaline production which can induce anxiety and panic disorders if supplemented at doses higher then the recommended amount. Excellent aerobic ability will protect you from the increase in anxiety.

Cortisol is a common stress hormone that is linked to obesity and the inability to lose weight. Supplemented alone, it does not increase cortisol levels in the body the way it increases noradrenaline.

However, if supplemented amidst caffeine, cortisol was increased. Other stress hormones such as prolactin, beta-endorphin, ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) are not released with yohimbine supplementation.

Stimulatory Effects of Yohimbine

Yohimbine will increase blood pressure which may put you at cardiovascular risk. One study showed that yohimbine’s effects on blood pressure can be positive for a person who suffers from orthostatic hypotension, a condition where one experiences extreme light-headedness (also known as syncope) upon standing up.

Some studies have attempted to show that it can improve cognition and focus due to its interactions with the same chemistry common ADHD drugs target.

While yohimbine can enhance the effect of these drugs, it will not alter attentiveness on its own.

Is Yohimbine Safe?

Yohimbine can be found over the counter or prescribed as yohimbine hydrochloride by a medical doctor. Prescription yohimbine hydrochloride is only to be used under the direct supervision of your medical team.

Supplemental yohimbine is not regulated, therefore the amount of compounds the label is boasting is not always truthful. When it comes to side-effects, the dosage makes the poison.

Many medical professionals will suggest taking a half-dose portion the first time you supplement with yohimbine to assess how it works with your specific chemistry.

CAUTION: If you notice any adverse effects stop taking it immediately and consult your medical doctor.

It can play a role in the onset of seizures, anxiety, heart problems such as tachycardia, and high blood pressure.

Summary

• Yohimbine is a compound found in the bark of the Yohimbe tree
• The active compound works by blocking alpha-2 adrenergic receptors
• It may be most effective for fat burning if taken on an empty stomach before your morning workout
• It may not increase Cortisol levels unless paired with caffeine
• Yohimbine supplement may increase anxiety and panic in some populations
• It has a stimulatory effect on the cardiovascular system which may lead to heart problems
• The stimulatory effects of yohimbine may not affect sleep cycles
• Anyone wanting to try supplementing with yohimbine should use extreme caution and start with half-doses

Cristen Lindsay RD, CNSC

Cristen Lindsay is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Nutrition Support Clinician. She has a demonstrated background in ... [Read Full Bio]