Schizandra berries, catuaba bark and Peruvian maca are all adaptogen herbs that aid in raising the body's ability to adapt to stress. They are best when used for extended periods, as their effects are cumulative, and they are safe herbs that can be taken without fear of toxicity. Because of their adaptogen properties, the three herbs also are thought to increase sexual drive in both men and women and can be used as aphrodisiacs, says herbalist Rosemary Gladstar in her book, "Family Herbal - A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health and Vitality."
Step 1
Bring a large pot of filtered water to a boil and add 1 cup of organic dry catuba bark. Known botanically as Erythroxylum catuaba, catuba bark needs to simmer in boiling water for at least 25 minutes to make a decoction, which is a strong tea that helps extract the medicinal properties of dense plant material such as roots and bark. According to the article "Catuba Bark," written by Jason Earls for the website A 2 Z of Health, Beauty and Fitness, catuba bark comes from Brazil and is used as an adaptogenic, antimicrobial and aphrodisiacal herb.
Step 2
Strain out the catuba bark and add the decoction to a quart glass jar.
Step 3
Add 2 tsp. schizandra berries to the liquid and seal the jar tightly.
Step 4
Let the schizandra berries steep for at least four hours -- preferably overnight -- to infuse the decoction with its medicinal qualities. Botanically known as Schisandra chiniesis, schizandra comes from China, according to Gladstar, and the berries are used as a reproductive tonic and to increase endurance and stamina. They have a complex flavor that encompasses sour, bitter, sweet, salty and pungent.
Step 5
Strain out the schizandra berries and warm the liquid in a small pot.
Step 6
Mix in 2 tsp. of organic Peruvian maca powder and stir until all the maca powder is dissolved. Maca is know botanically as Lepidium meyenii and is considered and aphrodisiac, according to the article "Maca: Peru's Natural Viagra" by Chris Kilham, published on the website Discover Health. It also helps build lasting energy.
Step 7
Drink your schizandra berry, catuba bark and Peruvian maca drink daily. Add 1 tsp. of honey for a sweeter taste.
Things You'll Need
- Organic schizandra berries
- Organic catuba bark
- Organic Peruvian maca
- Honey
- Large pot
- Filtered water
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Quart glass jar and lid
- Strainer
References
- "Family Herbal-A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health, and Vitality"; Rosemary Gladstar; 2001
- A2Z of Health, Beauty and Fitness: Catuba Bark
- Discovery Health: Maca: Peru's Natural Viagra
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