Muira pauma

Muira Pauma Bark extract, scientifically called Ptychopetalum olacoides, comes from a small Amazon Rainforest tree or shrub which has been used by the natives primarily for male enhancement purposes. Muira pauma literally translates as potency wood and although its use is limited in the scientific community, many male enhancement products include it as one of the ingredients because of its undeniable sexual enhancement effects.

Although the scientific community has been slow in studying muira pauma and its effects on people, the natural or alternative medicine community uses muira pauma to rather effectively treat sexual dysfunction. It is also commonly used to treat menstrual cycle disorders and central nervous system disorders as well as sexual dysfunction throughout most of the western world including but primarily England, Germany and United States; and of course by those living in the Amazon Rainforest countries, such as Brazil.

A French study of the herb found that all 100% of the test subjects claimed increased sexual frequency and 90% stated that they were able to have longer lasting erections while being treated with muira pauma. More recent use of muira pauma has been in its ability to relieve fatigue and stress and even a branded blend of this herb is sold for relieve of fatigue. A research study in Brazil documented a definite effect on the central nervous system of mice, including more physical activity and even more so, sexual activity.

More recent studies find that muira pauma extends beyond the central nervous system into the brain, protecting brain cells from rupture (stroke) and enhancement memory retrieval perhaps even as an antidote for Alzheimer’s Disease. As more and more research is done on the herb, more and more beneficial uses for muira pauma are being discovered.

As with all things ingested side effects must be considered. Although long term use of muira pauma shows no side effects, toxicity or interactions with other medicines, it is typical for herbal preparations to cause an upset stomach for those with sensitive digestive systems, so including it with food is recommended.