Wildcrafted Catuaba
Also known as: Trichilia catigua, Catuaba, Wildcrafted Catuaba, Brazilian Catuaba, Erythroxylum catuaba
Overview
Catuaba is a botanical supplement derived primarily from the bark of *Trichilia catigua*, a tree native to Brazil. It has a long history of traditional use as a tonic to enhance vitality, energy, and sexual health. While *Trichilia catigua* is the most commonly researched species, other species may also be marketed as 'catuaba.' The bark contains bioactive compounds that exhibit antioxidant and anticholinesterase properties, and may influence the central nervous system. Catuaba is available in various forms, including dried bark for tea, tinctures, powders, and extracts. Research on catuaba is still in its early stages, with most studies being preclinical or small-scale human trials. Therefore, more rigorous research is needed to confirm its purported benefits.
Benefits
Catuaba has demonstrated antioxidant activity in in vitro and animal studies, suggesting a potential to combat oxidative stress, although human data are lacking. Animal studies also indicate antifatigue effects, showing reduced fatigue during forced exercise; however, the clinical significance of these findings in humans remains unclear. Furthermore, rodent models have shown antinociceptive effects, suggesting a potential to reduce pain sensitivity, possibly through dopaminergic pathways. While anecdotal and traditional reports suggest mood and vitality support, there is currently no robust evidence from human trials to support claims of enhanced sexual performance or cognitive function. Further research is needed to validate these benefits in diverse human populations.
How it works
Catuaba's mechanism of action is not fully understood but is believed to involve several biological pathways. Its antioxidant activity helps in scavenging free radicals, reducing oxidative stress. Animal studies suggest that catuaba may modulate dopaminergic pathways, potentially influencing mood and pain perception. In vitro studies have also demonstrated anticholinesterase activity, which could affect acetylcholine metabolism. These actions primarily interact with the central nervous system, and possibly the peripheral nervous system and antioxidant defense systems. However, the absorption and bioavailability of catuaba's active compounds are not well-studied in humans.
Side effects
Due to limited research, the overall safety profile of catuaba is not fully established. While it is generally considered safe based on traditional use, there is insufficient evidence regarding its long-term safety. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects have not been reported in available studies. Drug interactions are also not well-documented, so caution is advised when combining catuaba with other medications. As a precaution, catuaba is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to the lack of safety data in these populations. It is also generally not recommended for children. Individuals should consult with a healthcare professional before using catuaba, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
Dosage
There is currently no established minimum effective dose, optimal dosage range, or maximum safe dose for catuaba in humans. Animal studies have used dosages of 200 mg/kg, but these cannot be directly translated to human use. Traditional use suggests a dosage of 1 to 3 grams of dried bark, typically consumed as a tea or extract. The timing of administration is not well-studied, but traditional use suggests daily or as-needed consumption. Catuaba is available in various forms, including dried bark, tea, tincture, and powder. The absorption factors of catuaba are not well-characterized, and no specific cofactors are known to be required for its activity. Due to the lack of comprehensive safety data, it is crucial to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare provider before using catuaba.
FAQs
Is Catuaba safe to use?
While generally considered safe based on traditional use, long-term safety data is lacking. Consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications.
When is the best time to take Catuaba?
The optimal timing is not well-established. Traditional use suggests daily or as-needed consumption. Best practices are not yet defined by scientific research.
What are the expected results from taking Catuaba?
Mild improvements in energy and mood are possible, but robust effects are not supported by high-quality evidence. Claims of significant sexual or cognitive enhancement lack rigorous human trial validation.
Are claims of sexual enhancement supported by research?
Claims of sexual enhancement or cognitive improvement are not substantiated by rigorous human trials. Most evidence is preclinical or anecdotal, requiring further investigation.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29866157/ – This preclinical study on *Trichilia catigua* hydroalcoholic extract demonstrated antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and antifatigue effects in vitro and in vivo using rodent models. The findings suggest potential benefits related to oxidative stress and energy levels, but the absence of human data limits the generalizability of these results.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3095233/ – This preclinical study found that catuaba extract reduced mechanical hypersensitivity in carrageenan-induced pain models in rodents, likely via dopaminergic pathways. While the study provides mechanistic insights into potential pain-relieving effects, it lacks human data and the mechanism is not fully elucidated.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-396/catuaba – WebMD's systematic review of available evidence indicates insufficient support for claims related to sexual performance, anxiety, fatigue, or cognitive enhancement in humans. The review serves as a conservative, evidence-based summary, highlighting the need for more rigorous research to validate these purported benefits.
- https://animamundiherbals.com/products/catuaba-bark-valentine-special – This is a product page for Catuaba bark, mentioning its traditional use as an aphrodisiac and energy booster. While it provides context on traditional applications, it does not offer scientific research or evidence-based information.
- https://herbalterra.com/m-puama-catuaba-aex – This is a product page that discusses the combination of Muira Puama and Catuaba, highlighting their traditional uses for energy and sexual health. It does not provide scientific research or evidence-based information to support these claims.
