Muira puama, also known as potency wood, grows abundantly in the Amazon region of Brazil. The people here have used this herb for a variety of purposes ranging from impotence to baldness. The root and bark contain the most active compounds and are most frequently used to create supplements.
Aphrodisiac and Sexual Function
One of the herb's best known traditional uses involves enhancing libido and treating sexual dysfunction in both men and women. The physician-created website Whole Health MD notes research has shown it might offer benefits for these purposes but this link requires more research. It also points out that many studies involved using this herb in conjunction with other substances, so whether muira puama would produce benefits on its own remains to be seen.
Brain Health
Amazonian tribes also use muira puama to promote health of the central nervous system and to promote overall brain health. Research conducted at the Brazilian Universidade Federal de Rio Grande, published in the June 2003 edition of "Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior" found that this herb reduced the breakdown of an enzyme important for memory and other brain functions. This could prove helpful in conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Naturopathic physician Leslie Taylor and author or "The Healing Power of Rainforest Herbs" explains that many natural health practitioners in Europe and the United States also suggest the herb for this purpose.
Other Uses
Like many herbs, traditional uses cover a wide range. Many of these uses have not been studied scientifically and whether they actually work for these purposes remains unknown. Taylor says that muira puama has been used to treat joint inflammation, baldness, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal disorders, influenza, menstrual problems and dysentery.
Form and Dosages
You can find this herb in a variety of forms including tinctures, tablets, capsules and teas. Taylor says that the tincture is the most effective form and recommends taking 2 to 4 ml twice a day.
Interactions and Side Effects
Whole Health MD and Taylor state that no known drug interactions or side effects exist. This does not mean the potential for these problems do not exist. You should always check with a qualified health care professional before using herbal therapies; this is particularly important if you take prescription drugs.
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