Muira Puama Benefits and Side Effects

Muira puama is a powerful plant commonly used in holistic and naturopathic medicine. The wood and the root are both used to create Muira puama herb supplements and extracts. It is primarily used to prevent and treat sexual disorders and increase libido, arousal and desire in men and women. However, it also is commonly used as an appetite stimulant and suppressant. It has been used to treat stomach upset and ease the pain commonly associated with ulcers.

Menstrual pain and disorders as well as joint pain and paralysis caused from poliomyelitis are also commonly treated with Muira puama supplements. Some people utilize the Muira puama herb as a general tonic for overall health and wellness.

Muira puama is available at many health food stores and online retailers. It primarily comes in pill form, but there are some Muira puama topical creams that are used exclusively for sexual stimulation and arousal. Other topical root creams are targeted to help alleviate muscle and joint pain. The exact formulations vary depending on the specific condition being treated.

What is the Standard Dosage for Muira Puama?

The proper dosage of Muira puama is dependent on a specific number of factors. The age, health and sex of a user are the most important factors to consider. The intended use and duration use are also factored in when determining the appropriate dosage.

There have not been enough scientific studies to recommend an appropriate dosage, but over-the-counter supplements and creams range from 100 mg, and up, daily. Depending on your underlying condition or concern, most people feel the positive effects of consuming Muira puama after about three days of consecutive use.

The Origins of Muira Puama

All parts of the root and wood have been use historically for natural medicinal purposes, but the bark and roots are traditionally the most commonly used in supplements. Indigenous people in the Amazon treat neuromuscular and paralysis-related problems with Muira puama root.

In addition to being a sexual stimulant, it also is known to help with gastrointestinal issues and weakness, and many indigenous people also believe it helps to prevent and treat baldness in both men and women.

Muira puama contains natural sterols that are the building blocks of testosterone. It relaxes the female and male reproductive systems in a way that increases blood flow, sensitivity and satisfaction to individuals consuming the herb regularly. It is still widely and commonly used in the Amazon and all over Europe, and it is becoming readily available in health food stores and online shops in the United States.

The Muira puama supplement can be purchased at a wide variety of healthy food stores and specialty vitamin shops in your community. Online retailers often carry a much wider selection and offer better pricing for Muira puama tablets and ointments.

While Muira puama is generally easily tolerated by most people, you may want to start with a minimum dosage or application to ensure you will not experience any uncomfortable side effects from the initial, or continued, use. There have not been any scientific studies to show adverse effects from extended consumption of Muira puama, but you should bring any concerns about drug interaction and use to a trusted health care professional.

It is also important to disclose all vitamins, pain relievers, prescription drugs and other medications you may be taking during your appointment with a doctor to ensure there are not any potential implications from taking Muira puama. Though this potent and effective herb is traditionally used to improve sexual function and libido, it is also widely used to treat depression, anxiety, memory loss, obesity and Alzheimer's disease.

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