Catuaba Bark Extract: Detoxify Your Body
Alternative healing methods were once the mainstream health treatments when people utilized the properties of various herbs. People are once again enjoying the benefits of many long revered herbs.
This catuaba tree belongs to the family Erythroxylaceae, whose principal genus, Erythroxylum, contains several species that are sources of cocaine. Catuaba, however, contains none of the active cocaine alkaloids.
Catuaba has a long history of use in herbal medicine as an aphrodisiac. The Tupi Indians in Brazil first discovered the aphrodisiac qualities of the plant and over the last few centuries they have composed many songs praising its wonders and abilities.
Clinical studies on catuaba also have shown results related to its antibacterial and antiviral properties. A 1992 study indicated that an extract of catuaba (Erythoxlyum catuaba) was effective in protecting mice from lethal infections of Escherichia coli and Staphlococcus aureus, in addition to inhibiting HIV significantly.
The study found that the pathway of catuaba’s anti-HIV activity stemmed (at least partially) from the inhibition of HIV absorption into cells, and suggested that catuaba had potential against opportunistic infections in HIV patients. A U.S. patent was granted (in 2002) to a group of Brazilian researchers for a catuaba bark extract (Trichilia catigua).
Catuapa bark contains alkaloids, tannins, resins, aromatic oils, falconoid and other constituents. Researchers in Japan discovered that catuapa contains powerful antiviral and antibacterial compounds. Rain-Tree.com states that a 1992 study indicated that catuaba extract was effective in protecting mice against E. coli and staph infection as well as significantly inhibiting HIV.
To date, no toxicity studies have been done on catuaba – but its long history of use in Brazil has reported no toxicity or ill effects. In fact, according to Dr. Meira Penna, the only side-effects are beneficial – erotic dreams and increased sexual desire! While no clinical research has validated the traditional use of catuaba as an aphrodisiac, it continues to be used widely for its ability to enhance sexual drive and increase libido in both men and women.
In the last several years, its popularity has grown in the North American herbal market, with various products (especially libido formulas) now available in health food stores. Catuaba is also showing up in other formulas for depression, stress and nervous disorders. (The jury’s still out as to which species is being sold, however!) Interested consumers should seek a reputable manufacturer and product – with a verified plant source and botanical species for the herbal ingredient being sold.
Finding the best information about natural herbs can be overwhelming at times. One of the best places we found online to get the straight facts is catuaba bark extract