Catuaba bark
Catuaba bark extract, scientifically called Erythroxylum vacciniifolium, is derived from a tree that grows in the Amazon Rainforest. Throughout its known history it has been used as a sexual enhancement herb and a central nervous system stimulant by the natives of the region. A different variation of the above tree has also been discovered to combat lethal bacteria, such as E. coli, and even the HIV virus, by not allowing the virus to attach to the cells, in a 1992 Japanese study.
The catuaba bark extract is used to treat nervousness, as a memory enhancer, and for sexual problems including enhanced sex drive and performance. Although this herb is rarely used on its own its sexual enhancement properties are undeniable however seem to be even more pronounced when combined with other male enhancement herbs such as muira puama bark extract, and epimedium leaf.
When used alone catuaba bark extract’s properties are most noticed after a prolonged used, perhaps six months or more. Many men confirm that they started having erotic sexual dreams that they actually remembered in the morning and a definite increase in sex drive. Most men also were pleased with their new found stamina in bed, sometimes allowing for several intercourse and ejaculation rounds in a single session. Recent studies suggest that catuaba works by opening up the penile arteries allowing more blood flow through that area. It also allows for better oxygen exchange, relieving fatigue in all parts of the body.
The one concern with catuaba bark extract is its relevant new use in the western world. Although it has been used for hundreds and likely thousands of years by Amazon natives, its popularity in America, and the rest of the world, really picked up in the last 20 years or so. The concern with this is that drug interactions and side-effects are so rare, as with most herbs, that a proper side effect/drug interactions list has not been compiled. Our experience with herbs leads us to believe that a mild upset stomach may be a typical side effect and can be minimized by taking catuaba bark extract with food.