Muira Puama | Ptychopetalum olacoides

Effects of Muira Puama

Muira Puama (Ptychopetalum olacoides), sometimes called “potency wood”, is a traditional Amazonian botanical with a long history of use in herbal preparations. It is traditionally associated with vitality, relaxation and sexual wellbeing. Scientific evidence for its effects in humans remains limited, so the traditional uses should not be interpreted as established medical benefits.

Traditionally reported uses include:

• Supporting sexual desire and libido
• Promoting a sense of vitality and wellbeing
• Traditional use as a botanical tonic
• Relaxation at lower amounts

Research into Muira Puama is still relatively limited, with much of the available evidence coming from traditional use, laboratory studies and animal research rather than well-controlled human trials.

How to Use Muira Puama

Muira Puama is traditionally prepared as an herbal tea or decoction. For a tea preparation, add 1–2 teaspoons per cup of water and simmer for approximately 15 minutes before straining.

The shredded bark or root may also be used in traditional preparations. If you are considering concentrated extracts or tinctures, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid increasing the amount beyond the recommended serving.

Because research on the safety and interactions of Muira Puama is limited, people who take prescription medicines or have an existing medical condition should consult a qualified healthcare professional before use. Reviews of herbal sexual enhancers also highlight the importance of caution with combinations of botanicals and medicines.

Active Constituents

Muira Puama contains a range of naturally occurring plant compounds. Analysis of Ptychopetalum olacoides bark has identified volatile constituents including alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, alpha-humulene, beta-caryophyllene, camphene and camphor.

Other reported constituents include fatty acids, sterols, coumarin, beta-sitosterol and the triterpene lupeol. The precise contribution of these compounds to the traditional effects of Muira Puama is not yet fully established.

Traditional History of Muira Puama

The name Muira Puama, also written as Marapuama, is traditionally translated as “potency wood”. The plant is native to the Amazon region of Brazil and has long been used in Brazilian and Amazonian herbal traditions.

Traditionally, the bark and roots have been prepared as teas, decoctions and alcoholic infusions. Indigenous and local herbal practices have associated Muira Puama with sexual wellbeing, nervous-system support, fatigue and general vitality. Modern interest in the plant has largely centred on these traditional uses, particularly its reputation as an aphrodisiac.

Some human research has investigated Muira Puama-containing preparations, although evidence specifically attributable to Muira Puama alone remains insufficient to establish definitive effects on sexual function.

Contents

80 grams of Muira Puama (Ptychopetalum olacoides), supplied in either shredded or powdered form.

Storage: Keep sealed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.