Catuaba is the name given to a number of plants found in South America often used for their energizing and libido enhancing qualities. In Brazilian herbal medicine, Catuaba bark is considered a central nervous system stimulant with aphrodisiac properties and is used to promote sexual health, serenity, comfort, and memory. As there are multiple plants referred to as Catuaba, different Catuabas may have a different or even unnoticeable effect. We carry Trichilia catigua because it is the most potent Catuaba species we have encountered.

Ptychopetalum olacoides, also known as Muira puama and Potency wood, is a tree native to the Amazon rain forest that grows up to 15 feet high, bearing white flowers with a lovely scent reminiscent of jasmine. In Brazilian herbal medicine, Muira puama is used to treat fatigue, muscular weakness, sexual debility, and central nervous system disorders.

Muira puama has been shown in published studies to be equally as effective as some prescription anti-depressant drugs at alleviating the symptoms of depression. This could potentially be due to its effects on serotonin receptors, as well as the beta-adrenergic and dopamine D1 receptors. Muira puama has also been proven to improve working memory, due to its inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, which breaks down the important neurotransmitter acetylcholine, necessary for memory and cognition. Acetylcholine also helps dilate blood vessels in the genital region, and Muira puama has also been shown to relax the corpus cavernosa of the penis, allowing for engorgement. Muira puama is the best companion herb for Catuaba, accentuating Catuaba’s aphrodisiac and mood-lifting nature with a serene glow while boosting absorption and efficacy.

Origin
Catuaba: Brazil, Wildharvested, Powdered bark
Muira puama: Brazil, Wildharvested, Powdered bark

Properties
Catuaba: dopaminergic, adaptogen, neurotrophic, antioxidant, libido, nootropic, tonic, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive
Muira puama: adaptogen, neurotrophic, libido, nootropic, cerebral stimulant

Constituents
Catuaba: phenylpropanoid-substituted epicatechins, namely catiguanin A and catiguanin B, cinchonain Ia, cinchonain Ib , cinchonain Ic, and cinchonain Id
Muira puama: long-chain fatty acids, essential oils, anti-oxidants, muirapuamine, and a plethora of other unique compounds

Use
Central nervous system stimulant with dualistic calming and uplifting effects. Functions as a brain tonic with memory increasing and neuroprotective qualities. Facilitates lucid dreaming. Also has a vasodilating effect lending to its mild aphrodisiac properties. For general memory boosting, dream recall, and energizing purposes a 10-minute mild simmer of 2 – 5 grams is acceptable.

Disclaimer
The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA (U.S. Food & Drug Administration). Our products are not intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. For education and research purposes only. Customers must be over 18 years of age to purchase anything from this site. Do not take any herb if under the age of 18, pregnant, or nursing a baby (or an adult for that matter), or if you have any known or suspected medical conditions, and/or taking prescription drugs or over-the-counter medications. Research all items before using them.