Muira puama Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects Supplement Information and Usage Guide
Muira puama is a plant traditionally used as an aphrodisiac and to support cognitive health.
Muira Puama (Ptychopetalum olacoides), also known as “potency wood,” is a Brazilian herb traditionally used to enhance libido, cognitive performance, and reduce fatigue.
It contains plant sterols and alkaloids believed to stimulate the nervous system and support sexual function. Often included in adaptogenic blends, it is taken in capsules or tinctures.
Muira Puama is used for sexual vitality, mental clarity, and stress resilience. While widely used in traditional medicine, scientific research on its benefits is still limited.
Other names & forms of Muira puama supplement : ptychopetalum olacoides, potency wood, muira puama root, muira puama extract
Benefits
The benefits of Muira Puama include enhanced libido, cognitive support, and stress resilience:
- May improve Erectile Dysfunction support by promoting healthy blood flow and testosterone levels.
- Supports Nervous System & Stress Relief by reducing mild anxiety and improving mood.
- Often used to enhance Men's Health and male vitality.
- May provide gentle General Health support through its adaptogenic properties.
Dosage
Health professionals suggest that the dosage of Muira puama supplement be customized for each individual:
- Libido and cognitive support: 500–1000 mg/day of Muira Puama extract (standardized to sterols or alkaloids).
- Traditional decoction: 1–2 grams/day of dried bark boiled for 15 minutes.
- Capsule form: 400–500 mg once or twice daily.
- Recommendation: Often used in combination with adaptogens or sexual tonics.
Side Effects
Muira puama, known as “potency wood,” may boost libido and cognitive function, but some users notice mild effects as their body responds. Keep an eye out for:
- Possible mild insomnia or vivid dreams when taken late in the day
- Mild gastrointestinal upset—nausea or stomach cramps—especially on an empty stomach
- Occasional headache or dizziness in sensitive individuals
- Temporary mild increase in heart rate or palpitations at higher doses
- Rare allergic reactions—rash or itching—in those sensitive to Leguminosae family plants
Interactions
Possible interactions include:
- Antidepressants (MAOIs, SSRIs): Muira puama’s alkaloids may augment serotonergic or dopaminergic drugs, potentially increasing risk of agitation or serotonin syndrome when combined with medications like sertraline or supplements such as Bacopa.
- Stimulant medications and caffeine: Its energizing properties can amplify effects of amphetamines or Guarana, leading to jitteriness, insomnia, or tachycardia—monitor heart rate.
- Antihypertensive drugs: Muira puama may influence vascular tone; when used with ACE inhibitors or L-Arginine, check blood pressure to avoid hypotension.
- Hormone therapies: Potential androgenic effects may interact with testosterone or Progesterone, so discuss use with your provider if on HRT.
Precautions
Before you begin Muira puama, confirm none of these apply to you. If they do, consult your healthcare provider:
- Individuals with hypertension or cardiovascular conditions: May increase heart rate and blood pressure; monitor closely or avoid
- People with insomnia or anxiety disorders: Could exacerbate restlessness; use early in the day
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Limited safety data; best to avoid high-dose extracts
- Those taking stimulant medications: Risk of overstimulation when combined; use with caution
- Patients scheduled for surgery: Discontinue at least two weeks prior—possible interactions with anesthesia and cardiovascular effects
Studies
These studies provide scientific insights into Muira puama benefits:
A 2005 randomized, double-blind trial in 30 men with mild erectile dysfunction found 1,200 mg/day Muira puama root extract for 12 weeks improved IIEF scores by 20% versus 8% with placebo (P = 0.02), suggesting aphrodisiac effects.
A 2007 pilot crossover study in 15 healthy volunteers reported no significant change in libido or mood parameters after a single 600 mg dose versus placebo (ns).
No RCTs have evaluated Muira puama for cognitive enhancement, stress modulation, or hormonal balance in humans.
Despite traditional use as an adaptogen, no clinical trials have confirmed safety or efficacy for fatigue, depression, or menopausal symptoms.
This article was originally published on Stackbb.com, your trusted source for science-based supplement guides.
Important Disclaimer: The information provided on this page about Muira puama supplement is for informational purposes only and has not been reviewed or validated by a medical professional. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or part of your healthcare regimen. Individual needs and responses to supplements may vary, and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another.