Catuaba Extract: Benefits, Side Effects & Dosage
What is Catuaba Extract? Catuaba extract is a medicinal extract that comes from the bark of several different
trees found in Brazil. However, one study proves that many commercially available samples of catuaba containe bark from Trichilia catigua (x). For the most part, though, several plants and trees native to Brazil are used — both historically and today — to extract the substance known as catuaba (x).
It goes by many names, including Erythroxylum catuaba, Chuchuhuasha and Golden Trumpet. Of course, many just refer to it simply as ‘catuaba.’
Catuaba is commonly used in traditional medicine to help with a wide range of issues that include sexual health, memory and fatigue. It also helps to promote anti-aging (x). But due to the variety of sources used to create this extract, it can be confusing to know the exact conditions it can help with.
Catuaba Extract Benefits Relieves Anxiety and Stress One can treat anxiety in numerous ways with different types of medication, exercises or therapies. Such treatments need to be taken seriously and handled by a doctor or other professionals. Catuaba serves as one of the possible treatments.
You may have seen warnings on medication about not driving or operating machinery when using. This is due, in part, to the impairment of your motor skills that can occur. However, studies done in 2018 by BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found
that catuaba does not affect the body in that way (x). In fact, there is partial support for the folk use of catuaba as a reliever of fatigue, which is a common symptom of anxiety (x).
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), 18 percent of the population suffers from anxiety (nearly one in every five people). Although this is a treatable condition, many do not get the help necessary (x). Panic attacks are usually a result of anxiety — a condition that includes a multitude of symptoms. People suffering from anxiety may experience changes in their heart rate and breathing, like during a panic attack (x).
Fights Depression Like anxiety, depression is a serious condition that needs to be treated by healthcare professionals. Medication, exercise, therapy or lifestyle changes may be suggested. In most cases, depression requires some form of intervention. Waiting it out may make it worse for some patients.
Studies have found catuaba extract can help to release serotonin (x). Serotonin is found naturally in our bodies and controls appetite, sleep and sexual desire (x). When we have ample stores of serotonin flowing through our body, mood is at an optimal state. Depression is commonly a result of a chemical imbalance in the brain, and this often includes serotonin levels.
If catuaba can help to raise serotonin levels, then there is the possibility that the patient’s depression could lift or lighten. Any treatment of depression should be under medical supervision or direction to ensure the patient’s safety.
A study in 2005 found that catuaba extract had some anti-depressant-like effects on rats and mice (x).
Possible Remedy for Erectile Dysfunction This condition affects more than just older men, although their lower testosterone levels may impact it. Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is more common as a man ages, though it can occur at any point in his life (x).
There are a number of reasons why erectile dysfunction may occur — physical problems, heart disease, smoking, stress, depression or hormonal issues (x). Catuaba is historically and anecdotally used as an aphrodisiac and is said to help with sexual health. In addition to this historic use of the extract, as discussed above, catuaba may assist in alleviating anxiety and stress, which are potential causes of erectile dysfunction in otherwise healthy men.
Research is frequently scarce on natural ingredients. The evidence for it as a treatment for erectile dysfunction and as a sexual stimulant to increase libido remains anecdotal.
Other Health Benefits A study from 2008 found that catuaba had some effect on the cells involved in Parkinson’s disease and its symptoms (x).
Inflammation is a normal reaction within the body, but chronic inflammation can cause many serious illnesses. Reducing inflammation is a common goal amongst those who are wishing to improve their overall health, and a study in 2008 showed that there is evidence to suggest that catuaba has anti-inflammatory properties (x).
One study in 1992 found that there was potential for catuaba to treat microbial and HIV infections (x). Though these are small studies, their findings provide an interesting basis for future study to enhance our understanding of the effect catuaba can have within the body.
Catuaba Extract Side Effects There has not been sufficient research on catuaba to definitively list the side effects and safety of the supplement.
Some users have reported an upset stomach as well as stomach spasms while using catuaba. Additionally, headache, dizziness and excessive sweating are potential side effects of catuaba usage.
Catuaba supplements have occasionally been found to contain other compounds which have potential health risks, or none at all. It is important to source your supplements thoroughly (x).
Warnings Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should avoid catuaba, because the lack of research makes it impossible to say whether it poses a health risk to the mother or baby.
It is important to discuss using supplements with a medical professional before integrating them into your diet.
Catuaba Extract Dosage
Take 1,000 mg of catuaba extract once daily. As with all supplements, contact your doctor before making any changes to your diet or health routine. If your doctor suggests taking another dosage, be sure to follow their instructions.
The Bottom Line Catuaba extract powder is easy to use and readily available. Problems generally arise when companies use other tree bark ingredients (x).
Depression and anxiety are two of the world’s most common disorders, and catuaba extract may help people who are dealing with these mental health issues.
Catuaba extract has its own unique benefits for men dealing with erectile dysfunction and libido, however this is based on folk belief and based mainly on anecdotal evidence. Studies have not yet confirmed or denied this application of catuaba. However, catuaba is also a viable option for relief of fatigue, memory issues and stress. While there is some evidence that catuaba can assist to alleviate some symptoms of depression and anxiety, this requires further investigation and anyone suffering with depression and anxiety should reach out for help immediately.