Also known as potency wood, muira puama is derived from two species of small, shrubby trees in the olive family. South American Indians make use of it either by chewing the bark or brewing a beverage from the bark, stems, or roots. The bark and root are used to make herbal supplements. Traditional uses Muira puama is traditionally used as an aphrodisiac and a sexual tonic that promotes virility and treats impotence.
Natives sometimes drink a muira puama beverage before planned lovemaking to enhance sexual desire.
Muira puama is also a traditional herb for nervous exhaustion and depression. South American Indians consider it a tonic for the nervous system, capable of promoting overall nerve function while preventing or treating nerve pain and disorders of the nervous system. Muira puama is a traditional herb for indigestion and other gastrointestinal disorders. Women have used it to alleviate menstrual cramps and discomforts of menopause. Amazonian tribes have also been known to use muira puama to treat rheumatism, dysentery, paralysis, and beri-beri.