Last verified: 17 days ago
Muira Puama
Also known as: Ptychopetalum olacoides, Ptychopetalum uncinatum, potency wood, marapuama
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Traditional Amazonian herb with very limited human research. Often marketed for libido and performance.
-
What it does
Muira Puama is a tree bark extract from the Amazon rainforest, long used in traditional medicine as an aphrodisiac and energy tonic. In lab studies using rat cells, it has been shown to influence...
-
Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
-
Clinical dose
No established dose
-
Found in
What the Science Says
Muira Puama is a tree bark extract from the Amazon rainforest, long used in traditional medicine as an aphrodisiac and energy tonic. In lab studies using rat cells, it has been shown to influence nitric oxide pathways involved in erectile function — but only as part of a four-ingredient combination, not on its own. It also contains compounds that may interact with estrogen receptors, though what this means for humans is not yet known.
What It Doesn't Do
No proven libido boost in humans — zero clinical trials exist. Not shown to improve athletic performance on its own. No evidence it works as a standalone erectile dysfunction treatment. The 'potency wood' nickname is marketing, not medicine.
Evidence-Based Benefits
May activate nitric oxide signaling in penile smooth muscle cells when combined with other compounds.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Contains compounds that bind to estrogen receptors in lab models, suggesting possible hormonal activity.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no human pharmacokinetic data available from provided studies
Red Flags to Watch For
- Contains compounds that may mimic or block estrogen — potential hormonal effects in both men and women are not well understood
- No standalone human clinical trials exist; all human data comes from a multi-ingredient product study
- 636 registered supplement products contain it despite near-zero clinical evidence
- Often combined with other ingredients, making it impossible to isolate its effects
Products Containing Muira Puama
See how Muira Puama is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Muira Puama do?
Traditional Amazonian herb with very limited human research. Often marketed for libido and performance.
What is the effective dose of Muira Puama?
No established dose
Is Muira Puama safe?
Contains compounds that may mimic or block estrogen — potential hormonal effects in both men and women are not well understood
What doesn't Muira Puama do?
No proven libido boost in humans — zero clinical trials exist.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25