Quick answer
Muira puama is an Amazonian shrub traditionally used for male vigor and nicknamed "potency wood." Human research is very limited, so its benefits are based mostly on traditional use.
Muira puama (Ptychopetalum olacoides) grows in the Brazilian Amazon. Its roots and bark have been used in folk medicine as a tonic for men for generations.
What the research says
A review of common aphrodisiac ingredients notes that very little clinical research exists on muira puama for erectile function. Most claims trace back to traditional use and small, older studies.
It is often combined with catuaba, as in the Brazilian blend Catuama, which was found to be well tolerated in a 28-day safety study in healthy volunteers. That study tested safety, not effectiveness.
A quick reality check: studies test single ingredients, usually at hundreds of milligrams to several grams a day. SodaPeak blends eight botanicals into 82 mg per gummy (about 567 mg of dry herb), and the amount of each isn't disclosed. So research explains why an ingredient was chosen, not how SodaPeak will work for you. Compare every ingredient in our ingredients guide.
Why it's in SodaPeak
Formulators include it for its traditional reputation and long history of use alongside catuaba bark. Treat it as a supporting botanical, not the main driver.
Keep reading
See the full SodaPeak label or learn what a proprietary blend means.
Traditional use in Brazil
Muira puama has been used by Indigenous communities and in Brazilian folk medicine as a tonic, typically as a tea or tincture made from roots and bark. Its reputation spread internationally in the 20th century, when it began appearing in European herbal products for men.
What studies exist
The research base is thin. A review of aphrodisiac ingredients found very limited clinical data on muira puama for erectile function. Some small studies tested it in combination with other herbs, which makes it impossible to say what muira puama contributed on its own. The Catuama safety study is useful because it suggests the traditional combination was well tolerated over 28 days.
Why it's still used
- A long history of traditional use without major safety signals.
- It pairs naturally with catuaba in traditional formulas.
- Formulators often include it as a supporting ingredient rather than a lead one.
Safety notes
Long-term safety data are limited. People with heart conditions, those taking regular medication, and anyone pregnant or nursing should speak with a doctor first. The NIH's guide to using dietary supplements wisely is a helpful starting point.
How to judge a product that contains muira puama
- Find the amount. Is it listed on its own, or hidden in a proprietary blend?
- Compare with research doses. If studies used grams and a product contains milligrams, expect a gentler effect, if any.
- Check the company. A named distributor and a complete label are basic trust signals; see how to read a supplement label.
- Look for realistic claims. The FDA warns that some "natural" enhancement products contain hidden drug ingredients.
- Give it time. Botanicals are typically studied over 8–12 weeks.
The bottom line
Muira puama is a culturally important Amazonian botanical with little modern evidence. Consider it a traditional supporting herb. For ingredients with stronger human data, compare maca and ashwagandha.
Forms you'll find
- Root or bark tea, the traditional preparation.
- Liquid tinctures.
- Powdered extracts in capsules.
- Small amounts in multi-herb gummies like SodaPeak.
Questions to ask before buying
- Which part of the plant is used?
- How much is in each serving?
- Is the company identifiable, with a full label?
The NIH's advice on using supplements wisely applies to every botanical.
Our take
Muira puama earns its place in traditional formulas through history rather than modern data. That's fine for a supporting ingredient, as long as marketing doesn't overstate it. For context on every ingredient's evidence level, see our ingredients guide.
Who should avoid it
- Anyone pregnant or nursing.
- People taking medication for heart conditions or blood pressure, unless a doctor approves.
- Anyone who notices side effects after starting a product containing it.
When in doubt, ask a pharmacist to review the full label.
Frequently asked questions
What is muira puama also called?
It is often called "potency wood" or marapuama. Its scientific name is Ptychopetalum olacoides.
Is muira puama safe?
It has a long history of traditional use, and the Catuama blend containing it was well tolerated in a 28-day safety study. Long-term safety data on muira puama alone are limited, so talk to a doctor if you take medication.
Why is it combined with catuaba?
The two are traditional partners in Brazilian folk tonics. Formulators often include both for that reason, not because combination trials have proven an effect.
Is muira puama legal?
Yes, it is sold as a dietary supplement ingredient in the US.
Can women take muira puama?
It has been studied in some combination products for women, but evidence is limited. Ask a doctor first.
Sources
This article is for general information and is not medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. We may earn a commission from purchases made through links on this page. See our affiliate disclosure.