Muira puama is a type of tree whose roots and stems are used medicinally. With a long history of use in Brazilian folk medicine, it’s often said to act as a natural aphrodisiac. Muira puama is also thought to treat sexual dysfunction in both men and women.
Muira puama is said to act as a natural remedy for certain health issues including depression, erectile dysfunction, joint pain, loss of appetite, menstrual complaints, premenstrual syndrome, and upset stomach.
Muira puama is also sometimes used as an adaptogen, a substance thought to increase the body’s resistance to the negative effects of chronic stress.
In addition, muira puama is purported to treat the loss of libido. It’s said to protect against aging-related memory problems as well.
While there’s currently a lack of clinical trials testing the health effects of muira puama, some preliminary studies indicate that this herb may offer certain benefits. Here’s a look at several key findings from these studies.
Several preliminary studies have demonstrated that muira puama shows promise in the treatment of aging-related declines in brain function. In a mouse-based study published in Phytomedicine in 2007, for instance, scientists discovered that compounds found in muira puama may 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 that muira puama may help enhance memory.
In a rat-based study published in the journal Andrology in 2015, researchers found that treatment with a combination of muira puama, ginger, L-citrulline (an amino acid), and guarana may help protect against aging-related erectile dysfunction.
Taking a combination of muira puama and ginkgo biloba may help treat sexual dysfunction in healthy women, suggests a study published in Advances in Therapy in 2000.
Muira puama extract may have antidepressant-like effects, according to a mouse-based study published in Phytotherapy Research in 2009.
A preliminary study published in Phytomedicine in 2010 shows that muira puama may counteract the harmful effects of prolonged stress. In tests on mice, the study’s authors observed that muira puama might possess adaptogen-like properties.
There’s also some concern that use of muira puama may inhibit the activity of an enzyme called cholinesterase and, in turn, increase your risk of loss of muscle coordination.
There isn’t enough reliable information to know if muira puama is safe or what the side effects might be.
The appropriate dose of muira puama depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for muira puama. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.
Post time: Jul-01-2020