Catuaba

BotanicalBest in the morning

What is it

Catuaba is the bark of certain Brazilian trees, most commonly Trichilia catigua or Erythroxylum vacciniifolium, used traditionally as a male sexual tonic and general nerve tonic.

Evidence for 1 use

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

Libido and sexual function (male)

Limited Evidence

Traditional use and small studies suggest possible benefits, but rigorous clinical evidence is lacking and product identity varies.

How it works

Catuaba bark contains tropane alkaloids (in some species), tannins, and yohimbine-related compounds (in some Erythroxylum species). Mechanistic data are limited and depend on which botanical species is in the product, since Brazilian markets use multiple plants under the same name. Traditional use is for libido and energy; human evidence is preliminary.

Dosage

Bark powder doses are commonly 1-3 g/day. Extracts (4:1) at 200-1000 mg/day are typical. No formal RDA.

When and how to take it

Often taken once daily in the morning or before activity.

2 commercial forms

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

Catuaba bark powder

Most common form.

Composition varies by species.

Catuaba bark 4:1 extract

Used in supplement blends.

Concentrated form.

Safety

Generally well tolerated in traditional doses. Safety data are limited and depend on the species used. Erythroxylum species may contain trace compounds with stimulant effects.

Who should be cautious

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: avoid (insufficient safety data). Caution with cardiovascular disease and stimulant medications.

Interactions

Possible additive effects with stimulants and adrenergic medications. Limited interaction data.

Food sources

Catuaba bark (not a food)

Amount
n/a
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Does catuaba really work for libido?⌄

Traditional use is well-known, but rigorous clinical evidence is limited. Product identity also varies, so effects are unpredictable.

Is catuaba safe?⌄

Generally well tolerated at traditional doses. Quality and species identification are important for safety since multiple plants are sold under the catuaba name.

References

Catuaba on Wikidata — Wikidata link

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

Research on Catuaba (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Catuaba with Pilora

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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.