Catuaba: What It Is and Why People Try It
If you’ve heard of catuaba, you probably know it as a Brazilian bark used as a natural tonic and aphrodisiac. People take it for energy, mood, memory and sexual function. It’s not a miracle cure, but it’s a simple herb with a long traditional use. This guide tells you how people use catuaba, what evidence exists, common doses, and practical safety tips.
How people use catuaba
Catuaba comes from several tree species native to Brazil; the most common sources are Trichilia and Erythroxylum species. Traditional use involves boiling the bark to make a tea. Today you’ll find it in capsules, tinctures, and powder blends. Typical uses include a daily capsule for mild mood lift, a tea before sleep for relaxation, or a short course to support libido. People often stack it with other adaptogens like ashwagandha or ginkgo, but that adds risk of interactions.
What does it actually do? Animal studies and a few small human reports suggest catuaba may increase blood flow, reduce mild anxiety, and boost sexual desire. Those effects are usually mild and vary between people. If you expect a dramatic boost, you’ll likely be disappointed. If you want subtle support—better mood, a little more energy—some users report good results within 1–3 weeks.
Safety, dosage, and choosing supplements
Dosage depends on the product. Standard extracts are often taken at 300–1,000 mg per day, while traditional teas use 1–3 grams of bark boiled into a cup or two. Start low—try 300 mg or one small cup of tea daily—and watch how you feel for a week before increasing. Don’t exceed the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Side effects are uncommon but can include mild stomach upset, headaches, or sleep changes. Avoid catuaba if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking sedatives, blood thinners, or strong blood pressure meds. If you have a heart condition or are on prescription drugs, check with your doctor first. Herbs can interact in unexpected ways.
To pick a quality product, look for brands that list the botanical name, show batch or lot numbers, and use third-party testing for contaminants. Prefer standardized extracts when possible—those list active compound levels. Avoid blends that hide the catuaba dose among many other herbs. Price is less important than transparency.
How long should you try it? Give it 2–4 weeks to notice steady effects. If nothing changes or you get side effects, stop. Keep records: dose, time taken, and any changes in mood, sleep, or libido. That makes it easier to judge what works for you.
Want a quick takeaway? Catuaba can offer mild, short-term support for mood and libido for some people. Use low doses first, choose a transparent brand, and check with your healthcare provider if you’re on medication or have health issues.