Liriosma Ovata Powder
Also known as: Muira Puama, Potency Wood, Ptychopetalum olacoides, Liriosma ovata
Overview
Liriosma ovata, commonly known as Muira Puama or Potency Wood, is a plant native to the Amazon rainforest. Traditionally, it has been used in folk medicine as an adaptogen and tonic, primarily for addressing sexual dysfunction, alleviating joint pain, and improving digestive health. It is also used to enhance general vitality and well-being, often compared to ginseng for its purported energizing effects. The supplement is typically consumed as a bark powder or extract. While it has a long history of traditional use, scientific research specifically on Liriosma ovata is limited. Much of the available clinical data often refers to related species, particularly Ptychopetalum olacoides, which can lead to confusion in the literature. The current research maturity level is low to moderate, with a notable absence of rigorous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) directly investigating Liriosma ovata powder alone.
Benefits
Clinical evidence supporting the benefits of Liriosma ovata, particularly for sexual dysfunction, is limited and largely derived from small, uncontrolled studies or those involving related species or combination products. One open-label, uncontrolled study suggested potential improvements in sexual desire and erectile function in men with sexual dysfunction following administration of a Muira Puama extract; however, this study lacked robust methodology and controls. A pilot study combining Muira Puama with other herbs and L-citrulline showed early improvements in erectile function in approximately 50% of participants, but the specific contribution of Liriosma ovata could not be isolated. There are no high-quality systematic reviews or meta-analyses specifically on Liriosma ovata powder that meet strict RCT criteria. Traditional uses also include treatment for joint pain and digestive disorders, but these claims currently lack rigorous clinical validation.
How it works
The precise mechanism of action for Liriosma ovata powder is not fully elucidated, and proposed mechanisms are largely based on studies of related species. It is hypothesized that compounds in Muira Puama may activate the nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)-cGMP pathway in smooth muscle cells, which could lead to vasodilation and potentially improve erectile function. In vitro studies have also observed effects on estrogen receptors and smooth muscle relaxation, though these findings have not been conclusively demonstrated in human subjects. Comprehensive pharmacokinetic and bioavailability data specifically for Liriosma ovata powder are currently unavailable, making it difficult to fully understand its biological pathways and interactions within the body.
Side effects
Safety data for Liriosma ovata are sparse due to limited research. However, Muira Puama extracts, often referring to related species, have generally appeared well-tolerated in small clinical studies, with no serious adverse events consistently reported. Common side effects are not well-documented due to the limited scope and number of studies. There are no known significant drug interactions or contraindications that have been widely reported in the scientific literature. Despite this, caution is strongly advised due to the lack of comprehensive safety studies, especially for specific populations such as pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, or individuals with pre-existing chronic diseases. Further research is needed to establish a complete safety profile.
Dosage
There are no standardized or officially recommended dosing guidelines for Liriosma ovata powder due to the insufficient clinical evidence. Studies involving related Muira Puama extracts have typically utilized doses ranging from 1 to 1.5 grams per day, administered for short durations, usually between 2 weeks and 3 months. However, these dosages are not specifically for Liriosma ovata powder and may not be directly transferable. The optimal dosage, timing of administration, and specific recommendations based on different formulations or desired outcomes remain undefined. Without robust clinical trials, it is difficult to establish safe and effective upper limits or safety thresholds for this supplement.
FAQs
Is Liriosma ovata effective for sexual dysfunction?
Evidence is limited and inconclusive. Benefits observed in small, uncontrolled studies require confirmation through rigorous randomized controlled trials to establish efficacy.
Is Liriosma ovata safe to use?
It appears safe in small studies, but comprehensive safety data are lacking. Caution is advised, especially for specific populations, until more research is available.
How long does it take to see effects from Liriosma ovata?
Some preliminary studies report early improvements within a few weeks, but these findings are not conclusive and require further investigation.
Can Liriosma ovata be used alone for its benefits?
Most clinical data involve combination products, making it unclear what the isolated effects of Liriosma ovata powder are when used alone.
Research Sources
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/muira-puama.html – This source provides an overview of Muira Puama, noting its traditional uses for sexual dysfunction and as a nerve tonic. It highlights the limited scientific evidence and the confusion between different species referred to as Muira Puama, emphasizing the need for more rigorous research.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11200071/ – This article discusses the potential mechanisms of action for Muira Puama, including its effects on the nitric oxide synthase pathway and smooth muscle cells. It also touches upon in vitro findings related to estrogen receptors and smooth muscle relaxation, though human data are scarce.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38688104/ – This research likely contributes to the understanding of Muira Puama's effects, potentially referencing studies on sexual function or related mechanisms. It underscores the ongoing scientific interest despite the current limitations in high-quality clinical evidence.
- https://www.ferwer.com/lexicon/substance/liriosma-ovata – This source offers a general lexicon entry for Liriosma ovata, likely detailing its botanical classification, traditional uses, and perhaps some chemical constituents. It serves as a foundational reference for understanding the substance.
- https://www.baldwins.co.uk/baldwins-muira-puama-bark-liriosma-ovata – This commercial source provides information on Muira Puama bark, specifically identifying it as Liriosma ovata. It likely discusses its traditional applications and product form, reflecting common consumer understanding and usage.
- https://www.fda.gov/files/science%20&%20research/published/2015-FDA-Science-Forum-Brochure.pdf – While not directly about Liriosma ovata, this FDA document likely provides context on scientific research standards, regulatory perspectives, or general approaches to evaluating herbal supplements, which is relevant for assessing the research maturity level of Liriosma ovata.
- https://healthembassy.co.uk/muira-puama-liriosma-ovata/ – This source discusses Muira Puama (Liriosma ovata), likely covering its traditional uses, purported benefits, and perhaps some anecdotal evidence. It contributes to the general understanding of the supplement from a health and wellness perspective.
- https://www.drugs.com/npc/muira-puama.html – This source from Drugs.com provides a comprehensive overview of Muira Puama, including its traditional uses, scientific evidence (or lack thereof), potential side effects, and dosage information. It is a key reference for understanding the current scientific consensus and gaps.