Description :
Mucuna pruriens (Cowhage )is a tropical legume native to Africa and tropical Asia and widely naturalized and cultivated. Its English common names include velvet bean, cowage, cowitch. The plant is notorious for the extreme itchiness it produces on contact, particularly with the young foliage and the seed pods. Mucuna pruriens is well known by two Sanskrit names, Kapikacchu, which means “one starts itching like a monkey” and Atmagupta, which means “secret self,” and hints at the therapeutic value of the seed concealed within the allergenic seedpod.
In Ayurveda, Mucuna is used from ancient times for various neurological & general debility problems. It is used in dysfunction of all 3 dosha’s, viz Vata, Pitta, kapha especially in aggravated Vata & Pitta. It is Sweet & Bitter primarily, warm in potency. Mucuna is used especially as aphrodisiac agent to increase spermatogenesis and strengthening muscles / ligaments. As per Ayurveda, Mucuna pacifies aggravated Vata in Majja Dhatu (Nervous System), provides strength to basic structure of Nerves and helps to control body movements.
Research suggests Mucuna protects the brain by keeping cognitive and neural functions in check, even encouraging neural activity. The Antioxidants present donate an electron to the free radical to neutralize its effects, particularly on the brain. Mucuna has an added benefit in that it fights systemic redness in the brain, which is often a factor in brain degradation.
Mucuna contains a compound called L-DOPA which is a direct precursor to the neurotransmitter. it help to increase libido, lean muscle mass, reducing signs of aging such as wrinkles and body fat, increasing bone density and even boosting overall energy levels.
L-DOPA from Mucuna has been shown to be safer and more effective for controlling various Nervine problems, this is because of the vast arrays of other chemical constituents that accompany L-DOPA in the unprocessed plant. Mucuna also looks to be very promising as a adjuvent solution for recovering drug addicts, alcohol withdrawal syndrome and people suffering from depression related illness, since these people have deficiencies of the neurotransmitters serotonin (which the velvet beans contain and help balance in the human body).
Applications of Mucuna Pruriens Extract:
1. Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease
Mucuna pruriens is widely used as a natural alternative to synthetic L-DOPA in managing Parkinson’s disease. It helps replenish dopamine levels, improving motor control, reducing tremors, and alleviating other symptoms of this neurodegenerative condition.
2. Mood Enhancement and Mental Health Support
By increasing dopamine levels, the extract helps in alleviating depression, anxiety, and stress. It promotes a sense of well-being and is often used to improve mood in individuals suffering from mental health issues.
3. Cognitive Enhancement
Mucuna pruriens is known for its potential to improve cognitive function, focus, and memory. It is used as a nootropic supplement for boosting mental clarity and concentration and may benefit people with neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease.
4. Libido and Fertility Boost
In traditional medicine, Mucuna pruriens has been used to enhance libido and improve reproductive health. It is known to increase sperm count and motility in men and is used to support male fertility and hormone balance.
5. Muscle Growth and Athletic Performance
Due to its ability to increase dopamine and reduce cortisol, Mucuna pruriens helps in muscle recovery, growth, and strength. Athletes and bodybuilders use the extract to enhance physical performance and endurance.
6. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Uses
Mucuna pruriens extract contains antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. This makes it beneficial in promoting overall health and slowing the aging process.
7. Blood Sugar Regulation
Some research suggests that Mucuna pruriens may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it potentially useful for managing conditions like diabetes or insulin resistance.
8. Stress Reduction and Adaptogen
As an adaptogen, Mucuna pruriens helps the body adapt to stress by regulating cortisol levels and balancing the nervous system. It is used in stress management protocols to improve resilience to physical and mental stress.
SA Herbal Bioactives is a manufacturer of Mucuna Pruriens Extract
