Botanical Overview
Mucuna pruriens, commonly known as Velvet bean or Cowhage, belongs to the Fabaceae family. It grows mainly in tropical regions of Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and South America. The primary parts used medicinally are the seeds and leaves. Known for its rich content of L-DOPA, this plant is highly valued in traditional and modern herbal medicine.
Energetics
This herb is considered warming and neutral in moisture, with bitter and pungent tastes. It has an ascending directionality and is tonifying, primarily influencing the qi and blood systems.
Primary Actions
- Neuroprotective
- Adaptogen
- Antioxidant
- Dopaminergic
- Anti-Parkinsonian
Indications
Western
- Parkinsonian symptoms
- Low libido
- Fatigue
- Mood disorders
Syndromes
- Parkinson disease
- Male infertility
- Depression
- General debility
TCM
No well-established indications recorded.
Ayurveda
- Tremors
- Impotence
- Fatigue
- Low vitality
Syndromes
- Vata imbalance
- Male infertility
- Nervous system weakness
Unani
- Neurological weakness
- Sexual dysfunction
Syndromes
- Neurological debility
- Reproductive disorders
Constituents & Mechanisms
Mucuna pruriens contains phytochemicals including L-DOPA, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and proteins which contribute to its dopaminergic and neuroprotective effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Powdered seed 5-10 g daily
- Extract standardized to L-DOPA 15-30% 250-500 mg 1-3 times per day
- Decoction 2-4 g 1-2 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Use with caution during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. Avoid in hypersensitivity to legumes. Possible interactions with antiparkinsonian drugs and monoamine oxidase inhibitors warrant medical supervision. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort may occur.
Astrological Correspondences
No confidently sourced planetary or elemental rulership currently established.
Selected References
- Medicinal Plants of Ayurveda
- Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson’s disease: A clinical and pharmacological review
- Drugs.com Herbal Supplement Mucuna pruriens
- Phytochemistry and pharmacology of Mucuna pruriens