Butea superba

Botanical

What is it

Butea superba is a climbing vine native to Thailand whose root has been used traditionally to enhance male sexual function. It is sold as a supplement under various names and is sometimes called 'red Kwao Krua'.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Male sexual function (traditional use)

Mixed Evidence

Traditional reputation for male sexual support. Modern human evidence is weak and contamination concerns complicate interpretation of positive reports.

How it works

The root contains flavonoids and sterols, with some research suggesting effects on phosphodiesterase activity and androgenic pathways. Animal studies show effects on sexual behavior and erectile function. Human trials are limited and have used uncontrolled designs. Reports of contamination with sildenafil or other PDE5 inhibitors have been documented in some commercial products.

Dosage

Traditional and supplement doses vary widely. Some products provide 200-500 mg of root powder or extract per day. Lack of standardization makes dose interpretation difficult.

When and how to take it

Use of Butea superba is not generally recommended given safety concerns; if used, follow product label.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Root powder or extract

Sold in male performance and 'natural Viagra' style products.

Variable; no standardization

Safety

Concerns include hepatotoxicity reports and contamination with prescription PDE5 inhibitors in some commercial products. Long-term safety has not been well established. Several case reports describe adverse effects.

Who should be cautious

Not recommended for use without medical guidance. People with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or liver conditions should avoid. Not for use by women, particularly during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Interactions

Potential interaction with nitrates and PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil) if the product is contaminated with these drugs. Possible additive effects with antihypertensives.

Frequently asked questions

Is Butea superba safe?⌄

Safety concerns include hepatotoxicity reports and contamination with prescription drugs in some commercial products. Caution is warranted.

Does it work like Viagra?⌄

Some products labeled as Butea superba have been found to contain sildenafil illegally, which would explain reported effects. Authentic Butea superba alone has weak human evidence.

References

Butea superba on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Butea superba on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Butea superba (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.