Maytenus krukovii is a tree species native to the Amazon rainforest; it grows in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. The tree reaches 90 feet in height and 2 feet in diameter, with leaves that span up to 12 inches wide, this large tree contributes significantly to the forest canopy.
In the Quechua languages the tree is called Chuchuhuasi, Chucchu Huashu or Chuchuhuasha. This name in all its permutations means "trembling back", due to the bark's effectiveness in relieving back pain, as well as discomforts of arthritis, rheumatism and osteoarthritis.
Extracts of the bark of Chuchuhuasi are analgesic, digestive aid, aphrodisiac, anti-oxidant, anti-mutagenic, anti-dysenteric, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-hemorrhoidal, anti-arrhythmic, anti-rheumatic, anti-malarial.
The natural bark of this important Amazon rainforest tree is an effective natural herbal remedy for adrenal support, tumors, bronchopneumonia, asthma, bronchitis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, leishmaniasis, hemorrhoids, liver disease, muscle aches, endocrine disease. It is menstrual and stomach regulator, immunostimulant, muscle relaxant. It is useful for toning, balancing and strengthening the female hormonal system, nervous system, immune system.
Chuchuhuasi causes muscle changes that lead to relaxation of the cavernous body resulting from an erection, also regulates menstrual disorders, loss of libido, pain and menstrual cramps. Chuchuhuasi is considered a natural Viagra that increases the sexual instinct and a natural aphrodisiac that increases libido in a radical way maximizing sensual pleasures. It has a beneficial effect on the hormonal balance in both sexes and is used to increase the power of the reproductive organs. It also has strong attributes in the female sex to reduce frigidity.
Chuchuhuasi protects against radiation, counteracts liver problems and kidney inflammation, benefits the treatment of leukemia, hernias, bone fractures, influenza, hypertension, and improves memory and energy levels. Indigenous peoples of the Amazon drink extracts of the Chuchuhuasi bark as an herbal tonic. Its use is not recommended for consumption of children under 8 years of age, pregnant women and nursing mothers.
While Chuchuhuasi has a long history of use as a healing and medicinal plant in its own right, it also has mystical uses that have long been known to the indigenous Shamans of the Amazon.
Known as "Chucuhuasi Tree Medicine", this tree is considered as a sacred teacher plant and used by shamans for its spiritual qualities. It can be used as part of a shamanic dieta or as an admixture to Ayahuasca. Additionally, when taken daily, Chuchuhuasi can assist in overcoming the challenge of sustained Ayahuasca use and the 'dietas' (controlled diet) that are usually associated with this method of accelerated personal development.