Mucuna is a potent tropical legume native to China and India.
Its pods contain seeds covered in fine hairs that can cause intense itching upon contact with the skin.
Rich in proteins, essential fatty acids, starch, and medicinal properties, Mucuna has been used since ancient times in both human and animal healthcare.
While its traditional uses have been well-documented in Ayurveda for centuries, it is only in recent years that Mucuna has caught the attention of Western researchers and health enthusiasts seeking natural alternatives for holistic well-being.
Rich History and Diverse Uses
Mucuna has a loooong history of different uses in the East.
In its natural form, Mucuna was used as an aphrodisiac, especially for male infertility, but also as a powerful medicine targeting nervous disorders, depression, and even Parkinson’s disease.
Today, Mucuna is available in powdered form and as tablets, used as a dietary supplement to enhance male libido, reduce stress, balance hormones, protect the brain, uplift mood, prevent diabetes, depression, and insomnia.
All parts of the Mucuna plant possess medicinal properties, containing various bioactive compounds such as amino acids, tannins, polyphenols, lecithin, gallic acid, and beta-sitosterol.
Its seeds are particularly noteworthy for their potential medicinal value.
Makes you feel…Better?
Did you know that L-Dopa from Mucuna can actually get into your brain and help make dopamine, which is known as the “feel-good hormone”?
Since Mucuna is packed with feel-good hormone, it is also known as the “dopamine bean.”
Dopamine is super important for things like how you act, think, move, sleep, feel, and even learn!
Research on the treatment of nervous system diseases with Mucuna pruriens has confirmed its neuroprotective effects, as well as its potential for alleviating symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
Is Mucuna safe?
Over the years, Mucuna has undergone several clinical trials, focusing primarily on its effects on fertility, nerve rejuvenation, cognitive abilities, and even sleep quality.
Studies have utilized extracts from both Mucuna seeds and leaves.
Research on the safety of mucuna usage has shown promising results, indicating that for most people, it is generally safe and beneficial.
However, like any supplement, there are potential side effects and contraindications to consider, so as always, before taking any of the supplements, my advice is to talk to your doctor.
Velvet bean should be avoided in cases of high ama (toxicity), congestion, or acute health conditions. Also, it should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
What we know from the researches is that Mucuma is not recommended for patients with psychosis, schizophrenia, glaucoma, cardiac arrhythmias, chronic nerve pain, and gastric ulcers, so if you’re suffering from any of these issues, the best might be to look for a safe alternative or, again, talk to your doctor.
What can it do for you?
You’re into sports?
Well, Mucuna then might be the right thing for you.
In the last couple of years, Mucuna has become a go-to supplement among athletes as it supports the muscular system, promoting fluid muscle movements, coordination, and precise motor skills.
As a rejuvenating herb, Mucuna has deeply nourishing and rejuvenating effects.
It shows a strong connection with all bodily tissues, yet it excels in harmonizing the reproductive, nervous, and digestive systems specifically.
Mucuna seeds are valued as one of the best reproductive tonics available outhere, supporting every aspect of reproductive tissue.
It supports fertility, healthy sperm and egg, healthy genital secretions, and proper functioning of reproductive organs. As an aphrodisiac, Mucuna powder stimulates healthy sexual energy and libido.
How to take Mucuna?
Mucuna is easy to incorporate into your daily routine as it is taken alone in the form of powder and tablets.
Using powder is the most traditional method.
For those who are busy, tablet form might be the best option.
It is easy to take, fast, and won’t take any extra time, unlike powder form which has to be mixed in some kind of a smoothie.