Muira puama is a small rainforest tree that produces lovely white flowers with a fragrance similar to jasmine flowers. However, the tree is primarily harvested for its bark, which has a long history of use by of Brazilian natives as an adaptogen and tonic herb to promote vitality. In fact, its common name translates to “potency wood.”
description Ptychopetalum olacoides plants are shrubs or small trees growing to about 14 feet in height. They belong to the Olacaceae family—not to be confused with the Oleaceae or olive family.
Its leaves are short-petioled—up to 3 inches in length and 2 inches in breadth— they are light green on their tops, and dark brown on on their undersides. The inflorescences consist of short axillary racemes of 4 to 6 flowers each. The root is strongly tough and fibrous with thin bark and broad wood. Inside the root is light brown, has a faint odor, and tastes slightly saline and acrid.
common names & nomenclature From the Spanish, muira puama means "wood of the power".
Also known as: muira puama, potency wood, marapuama, marapama, muiratã, muiratam, pau-homen, potenzholz, liriosma ovata
The Muira puama plant is native to the Amazon rainforest. It grows in Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, and Suriname.
climate Grows in warm humid understory rainforest habitats.
soil Prefers rich, moist, fertile soil of the rainforest.
growing Sow seed in rich, fertile soil in a greenhouse, when large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into larger containers and grow on in a greenhouse or outdoors in a warm, humid climate.
harvesting The bark and root are harvested throughout the season. May be used fresh or cut and dried for later use.
preserving Store dried bark and root pieces in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
