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The Tupi Indians, an indigenous tribe of Brazil, were the first to notice the incredible properties of Catuaba Bark. Initially they found the herb helped to enhance libido, then they noticed its numerous other beneficial qualities: relieving pain and fatigue, controlling nervousness, improving memory, helping with depression, among others. The Tupi Indians were so impressed with catuaba they spread the knowledge of its benefits to other Brazilian tribes, and even sang songs in praise of the herb. Catuaba bark has now been used for centuries, with no known side effects or toxicity.

The catuaba tree grows in the forests of northern Brazil (its scientific name is Erythroxylum catuaba). It is a small, fast-growing tree with orange and yellow flowers and oval shaped fruit that is not edible. The herb belongs to the same genus as other plants used for sources of cocoa, although catuaba contains none of the active alkaloids in the cocoa plant. Catuaba was traditionally drank as a bark decoction (boiling it in water to make tea), but now it is widely available in capsule form.

In Brazilian herbal medicine, catuaba bark is considered a central nervous system stimulant with aphrodisiac properties and a bark decoction is used for nervousness, poor memory, and sexual weakness. Apparently the Topi Indians have known about the enhancing properties of catuaba bark for many centuries.

Clinical studies have shown that it has antibacterial and antiviral properties and one study protected mice from lethal infections of Escherichia coli as well as Staphylococcus aureus. It furthermore had a strong inhibiting action on the HIV virus due to inhibiting the absorption of the HIV virus into the cell.

The two species preferred and used by the Brazilians are Erythroxylum catuaba and Trichilia catigua. Catuaba bark is also considered a central nervous system stimulant. The historic, traditional use of this herbal tonic is legendary. Many say it is the most famous of all the Brazilian aphrodisiac plants. It is a strong tonic and nervous system fortifier, known for its general capability of giving strength and relieving fatigue.

It is often used in combination with Muira Puama for tonifying the urinary organs, and is used specifically as an aphrodisiac and for impotence. It has reported benefits in relieving insomnia from hypertension, restless sleeping patterns, and even in helping to arrest failing memory. There is a saying in South America that says, “Until a father is 60, the son is his; after that the son is Catuaba’s.” Catuaba is considered an “innocent” aphrodisiac, meaning no adverse side effects have been reported in its use. Catuaba is usually consumed as a tea made from the bark of this small shrub.

Herbal catuaba bark is also available in tablet forms at your local or health food store. Look for name brands to ensure quality and purity of the product you purchase.

*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Catuaba bark is not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.