Energetic quality: warm, astringent, spicy

Parts used: roots, bark, wood, balsam

Ethnobotanical/historical use: Long history of use by Brazilian Amazon natives for a multitude of uses, from aphrodisiac and arthritic pain to the prevention of baldness – considered to be a pharmacy
Scientists began studying this plant in the 1920’s, again in the 1960’s, again in Paris

Actions, properties: aphrodisiac, nervine, CNS stimulant, antirheumatic, antidysenteric

Indications: impotence, frigidity, infertility, PMS; neurasthenia (patchy numbness), CNS disorders, paralysis; dysentery, diarrhea, depression, debility; rheumatism; baldness; beri beri

Contraindications: I did not find any in my research

Methods of preparation and dosage:
My research clashes with common sense here. One source stated that the active constituents are not soluble in water, and that capsules and tablets are ineffective. I want to ask a silly question now. How exactly were the Amazon natives preparing this plant? Most indigenous people around the globe prepare water extractions of plants (decoctions and infusions) for medicine at least 90% of the time, with fermenting, chewing, burning and topical applications filling in the gaps.
Because we are dealing with tough plant parts, a decoction or alcohol extract is the way to go, although many men like to mix the powder into a liquid (protein shakes, juices, smoothies, water)
Decoction – 1 cup 2 – 3x daily
Extract – 1 – 2 droppers 1 – 3x daily
Powder – ½ teaspoon in liquid 1 – 3x daily

Combines well with: adaptogens – Withania somnifera, Panax ginseng, Lepidium meyenii, Pfaffia paniculata, Polygonum multiflorum; aphrodisiacs and circulatory agents – Capsicum annuum, Zingiber officinalis, Erythroxylum catuaba

Spiritual/magical/religious use: power, consolidation of power, wise use of energy