The 7 Health Benefits of Catuaba
In addition to being an effective aphrodisiac, catuaba is also beneficial in treating depression , anxiety , insomnia , pain, and bacterial infections. Catuaba is also known by several other names, such as Caramuru, Pau De Reposta, Piratancara and Tatuaba. Catuaba contains active ingredients that have antioxidant, immuno-stimulant, vasodilator and antimicrobial characteristics. All these properties work together and make it a safe and natural remedy for various ailments. So, check out The 7 Benefits of Catuaba for Health.
Catuaba Benefits for Mood: Catuaba barkis considered an effective mood enhancer and helps with nervous disorders like depression and anxiety . The use of this herb is considered to invoke feelings of euphoria, which is said to be the reason to boost mood. Since this herb only produces mild effects, it may not be beneficial for treating severe conditions.
Benefit of Catuaba for Sexual Health: Catuaba barkhas been used by men and women all over the world to increase their libido and sexual activities. According to Brazilian herbal medicine, catuaba is considered a natural stimulant. The ability of catuaba bark to improve sexual libido can be attributed to the presence of certain alkaloids.
Animal research has indicated that catuaba bark dilates blood vessels and improves blood circulation, thus improving sexual functions. Catuaba was originally used to prepare tea, but nowadays it is available in capsule form in stores and pharmacies. Although not scientifically proven, it is considered to increase libido by stimulating the nervous system and helping genital function.
Benefits of Catuaba for the Brain: Free radicals formed in the body as a result of metabolic activities and environmental exposure can cause damage to brain cells. Studies have found that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of catuaba extract are effective in protecting the brain from oxidation damage and also protecting against brain disorders . According to a study from Brazil, which examined the effect of this herb on mood, catuaba was found to be highly effective in promoting mental acuity, improving memory , and supporting general well-being.
Catuaba Has Antimicrobial Properties: Clinical studies have found that catuaba has antibacterial and antiviral properties. According to a 1992 study, the extract obtained from this tree is effective in protecting against infections caused by bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Its antiviral properties have been found to be effective in inhibiting HIV. The study revealed that the anti-HIV activity of catuaba is due to the slowing down of HIV uptake into cells. This result suggested that catuaba can be used as a remedy to prevent opportunistic infections in people suffering from HIV.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: A study published in 2004 suggests that catuaba extract has anti-inflammatory properties. The results of this study suggest that catuaba extract has the potential to be used as a natural anti-inflammatory agent.Benefit of Catuaba for Parkinson’s Disease: Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by a selective and progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, which can ultimately lead to programmed cell death. Studies indicate that catuaba extracts offer cytoprotective effects on rotenone-induced apoptosis. According to the results of this study, commercial extracts obtained from the catuaba tree may offer protective effects against Parkinson’s disease.
Catuaba Offers Cardioprotective Effects: Catuaba is used as a cardiotonic as it is considered to strengthen and tone the heart . It has vasodilating and vasorelaxing properties, which helps in the dilation of blood vessels, thus increasing blood circulation, allowing more blood flow through the blood vessels. Increased blood circulation helps lower high blood pressure , which is a major risk factor for conditions like heart attack and stroke.