Yohimbe

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A tropical evergreen tree native to Africa ; a natural herbal product obtained from the tree's bark used to support sexual health
2. A type of tree found in African forests known for its tall, slender form ; an extract from the bark traditionally used for medicinal purposes, especially to enhance male performance
3. A West African tree producing bark that is harvested as an herbal remedy ; a natural supplement derived from this bark to promote stamina and vitality

Etymology: The word traces back to a tree native to West Africa, and its name appears to have come from a local language rather than from any European root. The likely source is Duala "yombwa", the name the Duala people of Cameroon gave the tree, which passed into European languages, probably through French or German, before reaching English. The bark of this tree has long been harvested as a traditional remedy, and the word now names both the tree and the supplement made from its bark. Products sold under the name are promoted to boost stamina and vitality, so a term first attached to a plant has become attached to a commercial product whose effects are the subject of ongoing debate.