The Catuaba tree is native to Brazil and has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. The bark and leaves of the Catuaba tree are known to be an aphrodisiac. In addition to increasing sex drive and reducing stress, the plant carries anti-viral and anti-bacterial healing properties. Some modern uses for the herb include fighting off staph infections and inhibiting the HIV virus. Catuaba is most often taken as an infusion or a tea.
Instructions
1. Consult your physician before you begin to drink Catuaba tea. Be sure she knows about all of the prescription and over-the-counter medications you are currently taking, as well as any vitamins and supplements. As of 2007, there have been no drug interactions with Catuaba, but the herb can affect everyone differently.
2. Visit your local health food store to buy the Catuaba herb. Catuaba is known by many names, including catagua and chuchuhuasha. The Tropical Plant databases can provide you with many other nicknames of Catuaba, as well as its physical description (see Resources).
3. Follow the specific directions on the packaging, if there are any, for preparing tea, as the potency of the herb may vary. Casual directives for making an infusion specify to put a handful of the herb into a glass of water. Measurements approximate 1/4 to 1/2 cup of the dried bark or herb and 8ox. of water that has been brought to room temperature.
4. Let the Catuaba infusion stand overnight or for at least eight hours. Cover the glass with a paper towel if you have pets or small children who may disturb the concoction.
5. Strain the herb from the water after the tea has infused for eight hours or longer. Discard the herbs.
6. Drink 1 to 3 cups of the Catuaba tea daily to feel refreshed, calm and amorous.
Tags: Catuaba herb, Catuaba tree, eight hours
