Background to Muira puama

Muira Pauma is a type of tree whose roots and stems are considered medicinal. A natural aphrodisiac in traditional Brazilian folk medicine, Muira puama treated sexual dysfunction in both men and women.

A natural remedy, Muira puama is used for health problems such as depression, loss of appetite, joint pain, upset stomach, menstrual complaints, and erectile dysfunction. Muira Pauma is purported to treat the loss of libido and is also sometimes used as an adaptogen. A substance thought to increase the body's resistance to the adverse effects of chronic stress.

There is currently a lack of clinical trials testing the health effects of Muira Pauma, but some preliminary studies indicate that this herb may offer certain benefits.

 Findings in preliminary Muira puama testing:

In a mouse-based study published in Phytomedicine in 2007, scientists discovered that compounds found in Muira puama might help shield brain health by reducing damage induced by oxidative stress, a destructive process linked to aging-associated cognitive decline. There's also some evidence in testing that Muira Pauma may help enhance memory.

The journal Andrology reported in 2015, on a rat-based study where researchers found that treatment with a combination of Muira Pauma, ginger, L-citrulline (an amino acid), and guarana may help protect against aging-related erectile dysfunction.

A study published in Advances in Therapy in 2000 suggested that taking a combination of Muira Pauma and ginkgo Biloba may help treat sexual dysfunction in healthy women.

Two hundred women treated for low sex drive with a herbal formulation containing Muira Pauma and ginkgo Biloba were asked to complete a questionnaire. The survey, completed by participants at the end of the one-month treatment period, showed the herbal combination led to improvements in frequency of sexual desires and satisfaction with sex life.

According to a mouse-based study published in Phytotherapy Research in 2009, Muira Pauma extract may have had effects similar to those of anti-depressants.

Muira puama may counteract the harmful effects of prolonged stress, according to a preliminary study published in Phytomedicine in 2010. In tests on mice, the study's authors observed that Muira puama might possess adaptogen-like properties.

Directions for use:

Muira puama powder makes for easy addition of the supplement to fruit smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt, desserts, and more.