Vita Drive

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Combining Muira Puama (Ptychopetalum olacoides) and Catuaba (Trichilia catigua or Erythroxylum catuaba), two traditional Amazonian herbs, is a common practice in Brazilian herbal medicine, particularly for enhancing sexual health, mood, and overall vitality.

 

Enhanced Sexual Health and Libido:

 

Muira Puama known as “potency wood,” Muira Puama has a long history as an aphrodisiac in Amazonian folk medicine. It is used to address sexual dysfunction, low libido, and erectile dysfunction (ED). A study involving 202 postmenopausal women found that a combination of Muira Puama (175 mg) and Ginkgo biloba increased libido in 65% of participants, with improvements in sexual desire, fantasies, and orgasm intensity. Another study of 262 men with low libido reported that 60% experienced increased sexual desire with 1,000–1,500 mg daily for two weeks.

 

Catuaba is traditionally used by the Tupi people of Brazil as an aphrodisiac, Catuaba is believed to enhance libido and sexual performance. It contains yohimbine and other alkaloids that may stimulate the nervous system and improve sexual function. Animal studies suggest it supports sexual behavior, and anecdotal reports highlight its role in relieving sexual weakness.

 

The combination is often marketed for synergistic effects on sexual health, as seen in products like Catuama, a Brazilian herbal tonic containing Muira Puama, Catuaba, guarana, and ginger. Traditional use involves combining the two as an infusion to enhance sexual potency, with the Tupi people attributing enhanced sexual capacity to this blend. A rat study showed that a combination including Muira Puama and Catuaba improved age-related erectile function, possibly by enhancing nitric oxide (NO) pathways, comparable to PDE5 inhibitors like Tadalafil. Studies also suggest that combining Muira Puama and Catuaba enhances sexual desire and erectile function, potentially due to their complementary effects on nervous system stimulation and blood flow.

 

Mood Enhancement and Stress Reduction:

 

Muira Puama exhibits mild anxiogenic and adaptogenic properties, supporting the central nervous system (CNS) by increasing mental performance and stamina. A study by Siqueira et al. noted CNS stimulation, which may contribute to mood-lifting effects.

 

Catuaba research from Brazil indicates Catuaba has antidepressant-like effects mediated by dopaminergic mechanisms, improving mood and reducing stress. A 2005 study showed it alleviated stress-related symptoms in mice, likely due to flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids.

 

The combination can synergistically improve mood and mental acuity. Catuaba’s dopaminergic effects and Muira Puama’s CNS stimulation could enhance overall well-being, as supported by user reviews reporting uplifted mood and reduced fatigue after using Muira Puama and Catuaba together. This aligns with traditional use for combating stress and fatigue, making the combination a natural mood support supplement.

 

Cognitive Support and Neuroprotection:

 

Muira Puama studies in mice suggest it has memory-enhancing and anti-amnesic effects, potentially due to acetylcholinesterase inhibition in cognition-relevant brain areas. It attenuated cognitive impairment and neuroglial degeneration in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease, indicating potential neuroprotective benefits.

 

Catuaba's preliminary research shows it protects animal brains from oxidative stress and improves memory in mice. A 2011 study found enhanced memory performance, attributed to its antioxidant properties (flavonoids and tannins), which protect against free radical damage.

 

The combination can enhance cognitive function, particularly in aging populations, by reducing oxidative stress and supporting acetylcholine activity. Studies show Muira Puama enhances acetylcholine and nerve growth factor (NGF) secretion, which, when paired with Catuaba, could amplify memory and cognitive benefits.

 

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties:

 

Muira Puama contains diterpenoids and phenolic compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. A 2016 study showed that Muira Puama inhibited bacterial growth (Klebsiella ozaenae) and reduced oxidative damage in vitro, supporting its traditional use for inflammation.

 

Catuaba demonstrates potent antimicrobial and antioxidant effects, inhibiting bacterial growth (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli) and protects brain cells from oxidative damage in rat studies. Its flavonoids and saponins are believed to contribute to these effects.

 

Together, Muira Puama and Catuaba may provide enhanced antioxidant protection, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in reproductive and neurological tissues. This could support overall vitality and protect against age-related decline, as suggested by their inclusion in tonics like Catuama.

 

Energy and Stamina Boost:

 

Muira Puama is traditionally used as an energy tonic, it is marketed as a body stimulant in Brazil. Its CNS-stimulating effects may enhance physical stamina and combat fatigue.

 

Catuaba is known for reducing fatigue and improving physical endurance in folk medicine, it is often used to support overall vitality.

 

The combination is frequently described as an energy booster, with user reviews noting significant uplifts in energy levels and vigor after using Muira Puama and Catuaba together. This aligns with their traditional use as a tonic for neuromuscular problems and general weakness.

 

Dosage and Administration:

 

Muira Puama: Common doses range from 500–1,500 mg/day (capsules or tincture). Traditional use includes teas or tinctures with warm water and lemon juice to enhance tannin absorption.

 

Catuaba: Often taken as a capsule, tincture or tea, with no standardized dose due to limited research.

 

Combination: Products like Muira Puama and Catuaba are common, but optimal dosing is unclear.

 

Safety and Side Effects:

 

Muira Puama: Safe at 500–1,050 mg/day for up to one month, but long-term safety is unknown. Potential side effects include insomnia, stomach discomfort, headaches, or nervousness, especially at high doses or in combinations like Catuama.

 

Catuaba: Limited safety data, but generally well-tolerated in traditional use. May cause overstimulation or insomnia due to yohimbine content.

 

Precautions: Avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data. Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if on medications (e.g., antidepressants, blood pressure drugs) or with conditions like insomnia or heart issues.

 

User reviews suggest combining with Zinc or L-Arginine may enhance effects, particularly for sexual health, but no clinical trials confirm this.