WHAT IS CATUABA BARK EXTRACT?
Catuaba bark extract is a herbal treatment derived from the bark of several plants and trees native to Central and South America. Several plants contribute to catuaba supplements, including Erythroxylum, Anemopaegma, and Micropholis, but Trichilia catigua (T. catigua) is one of the most extensively utilised sources for catuaba extracts. Catuaba has a wide range of characteristics, including anti-inflammatory, depressive, neuroprotective, and antioxidant capabilities. These benefits are thought to be due to the presence of numerous bioactive components in catuaba, specifically flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and saponins. Nonetheless, it is vital to recognise that scientific research on catuaba is still restricted, with few human studies undertaken, which implies that many health claims associated with catuaba are not supported by research.
WHAT ARE THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF CATUABA BARK EXTRACT?
Catuaba bark extract is a hot topic in several traditional medicine traditions, and some feel it has the potential to treat or prevent a wide range of medical issues. Here are some of its benefits:
- May improve brain health: One of the most interesting aspects of catuaba research is its possible impact on brain health. Preliminary research indicates that catuaba may have neuroprotective qualities, particularly when it comes to countering oxidative stress induced by excess free radicals. Researchers conducted rat trials and discovered that antioxidants found in catuaba were capable of protecting brain cells from harm. Furthermore, there is some evidence from older research that catuaba may improve memory and reduce symptoms of memory loss. A 2011 study on mice found that administering a catuaba extract prior to behavioural testing increased memory performance in the animals. The antioxidant components present in catuaba have been linked to these cognitive benefits. However, while these findings are promising, they are preliminary and based on animal studies, necessitating additional research to determine their application to humans.
- May have antimicrobial properties: Catuaba’s antibacterial potential is another point of interest. Several investigations have found that catuaba has potent antibacterial capabilities, particularly in reducing the growth of bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Certain compounds in catuaba, according to researchers, have antimicrobial qualities, which means they can effectively kill microorganisms. Furthermore, laboratory studies have suggested that catuaba may be capable of preventing viral diseases such as polio and herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) by successfully neutralising these viruses. However, it is crucial to note that most research into the antibacterial effects of catuaba has been done in vitro (in a controlled laboratory setting) or in animal models. Although these findings are encouraging, it is not clear how effective or safe catuaba is for treating active illnesses. As a result, catuaba should not be considered a feasible alternative for infection treatment, and more research is needed to validate its potential in this area.
- May reduce fatigue: Catuaba has traditionally been used to treat fatigue, despite the absence of strong evidence to support this use. An animal study looked at the effect of catuaba on weariness in mice who were forced to exercise on a treadmill. The study’s findings revealed that catuaba had no effect on the time it took mice to become fatigued. However, greater activity levels were found in mice given the highest dose of catuaba, implying that catuaba may have a minor effect on decreasing post-exercise recovery time. It is critical to note that there has been little study on the association between catuaba and weariness, and none of the studies have included human subjects. More thorough investigation is needed before catuaba can be safely advised.
To summarise, while catuaba shows promise in certain areas of health, it is critical to realise that current research is mostly preliminary and primarily based on laboratory and animal studies. Further research involving human volunteers is required to acquire a fuller knowledge of catuaba’s potential benefits.
HOW DOES CATUABA BARK EXTRACT WORK IN HUMAN BODY?
When catuaba bark extract is consumed, it interacts with the human body in a variety of ways. The bioactive compounds present in catuaba are absorbed through the digestive tract and enter the bloodstream after consumption. These compounds are subsequently transported throughout the body, where they may have health benefits. Catuaba’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects are hypothesised to function through a variety of pathways.
Catuaba’s antioxidant qualities are thought to be one of its key roles. The extract contains a variety of antioxidant components that can help to mitigate the negative effects of free radicals. Catuaba may help protect cells and tissues in the body by neutralising these damaging radicals. While intriguing, this antioxidative function requires more investigation to better understand its precise effects and the pathways it regulates in the human body. The potential for catuaba to enhance brain health by insulating brain cells from oxidative damage is particularly intriguing, but more research with human subjects is required to confirm these effects.
HOW MUCH CATUABA BARK EXTRACT CAN A PERSON TAKE?
Catuaba bark extract comes in a variety of forms, such as capsules, tinctures, or teas, and the optimum dosage varies depending on the form and concentration of the extract. Catuaba has no recognised standard dose, and its safe and effective dosage can vary from person to person. To determine the appropriate dosage, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on the product label or consult with a medical practitioner. A typical dose of catuaba tincture is 1 to 4 millilitres taken two to three times per day.
Catuaba dosage research is sparse, with the majority of trials being conducted on animals. The paucity of human clinical trials makes establishing accurate dosage recommendations difficult. As a result, while trying catuaba for the first time, it’s best to exercise caution and begin with a lesser dosage. If you have any side effects or have questions about your dosage, go to your doctor, who can provide you specific advice based on your health and medical history. To summarise, catuaba bark extract dosage varies based on the form and concentration, and for safe and effective usage, it is recommended to follow the directions on product labels or seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
WHAT ARE THE VARIATIONS OF CATUABA BARK EXTRACT?
Catuaba Bark Extract is also available as:
- Catuaba Bark Extract 4:1 (Trichilllia catigua)
Catuaba Bark Extract is commonly available in:
- Catuaba Bark Extract capsules
- Catuaba Bark powder extract
- Catuaba Bark liquid extract
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