BENEFITS OF MUCUNA
✓ Reduces sexual disorders
✓ Supports the nervous system
✓ Lowers blood sugar
✓ Increases muscle mass
✓ Antioxidant
What is mucuna?
Mucuna has the scientific name Mucuna pruriens or Dolichos pruriens. Also called “itch bean”, “red bean” or “velvet bean”, it belongs to the Fabaceae family along with beans, peas, broad beans, or carob.
The Mucuna genus includes more than 80 different species such as the Mucuna pallida from Reunion Island, the Mucuna poggei from Africa, or the Mucuna urens from America.
But it is the Mucuna pruriens that is most commonly used in herbal medicine and traditional medicines. It is also the one we are interested in here.
Originating from tropical regions, it thrives in warm and humid climates. It grows as well in Asia (India and China), as in Africa and South America. It appears as a climbing plant or vine that clings to the natural supports around it.
If it benefits from optimal conditions, mucuna can grow very quickly and reach 15 m in height. In some regions, such as Reunion Island or New Caledonia, it is even considered an invasive species and its introduction is prohibited.
Its leaves are oval, and its white or purple flowers appear from November to January. Arranged in clusters, they take on a butterfly shape. But it is especially the pods that are the most surprising part.
After flowering, the plant produces pods covered with stinging hairs. Composed of histamine and mucunain, these hairs can cause significant itching upon slightest contact. Each pod contains up to 6 black seeds called “beans.” It is in the pods and seeds that the active principles of mucuna are concentrated.
In Asia and Africa, it is cultivated as a green manure to improve soil fertility and is a good food source for domestic animals. In Central and South America, its grains can be used as a coffee substitute.
Today, mucuna is mainly cultivated for its medicinal properties. It is an important plant in Ayurvedic medicine where it is used for its effects on the reproductive and nervous systems. It is said to boost libido and increase fertility, just like maca.
In the West, the demand for mucuna is increasing, particularly due to its high L-Dopa content, the amino acid precursor to dopamine.
Nutritional Composition
- 18 amino acids including L-Dopa
- Serotonin
- Vitamins : B1, B2
- Saponins
- Alkaloids: mucunadine, mucunine, prurienidine
- Minerals and trace elements : potassium, calcium, iron, manganese, phosphorus, zinc, copper, magnesium, sodium
- Proteins
- Lipids
- Fibers
- Polyphenols
- Phenolic compounds and tannins
- Others : phytic acid, trypsin, D-chiro-Inositol
The benefits of mucuna
🔥 Reduces sexual disorders
Mucuna is primarily known for its effect on sexual disorders. In Ayurvedic medicine, the plant is recommended to treat erectile dysfunction, combat impotence, boost libido, improve fertility and increase sperm count. In Ayurveda, it helps to balance the 3 doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) or vital energies.
The aphrodisiac effect of mucuna is due to the presence of an amino acid called 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine or L-Dopa. This molecule, present in large quantity in the seeds, acts effectively to improve sexuality for both men and women.
Once consumed, L-Dopa has the ability to transform into dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for many biological functions, including libido. The increase in dopamine levels also affects testosterone levels, the male sex hormone.
This study from the King George’s Medical University in India, conducted on men suffering from infertility, shows how mucuna seed powder increased sperm concentration and improved sperm quality.
🙏 Supports the nervous system
In Ayurvedic medicine, mucuna is recommended for treating neurological disorders and various diseases of the nervous system. Today, this plant is the focus of many studies as it could be a potential treatment for Parkinson’s disease.
This chronic and degenerative neurological disease affects the central nervous system and creates numerous symptoms: tremors and involuntary movements, neuron destruction, cognitive disorders…
The L-Dopa contained in the seeds plays an interesting role in the fight against Parkinson’s disease. It has been proven that a dopamine deficit is directly linked to certain neurological pathologies, including Parkinson’s. After crossing the blood-brain barrier, the L-Dopa from mucuna increases the dopamine level in the brain. This improves most symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
Today, L-Dopa is a reference treatment for Parkinson’s disease, known as “levodopa.” However, this antiparkinsonian drug contains synthetic L-Dopa and causes more side effects than the plant we are interested in here.
As illustrated by this retrospective of the history of Parkinson’s disease, published by the Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, the Parkinsonian syndrome or “kampavata” was already treated in India through the administration of powdered mucuna.
This study, published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine and conducted on patients with Parkinson’s disease, shows how mucuna powder improved symptoms with few side effects.
🍭 Reduces blood sugar
Mucuna exerts a hypoglycemic activity, meaning it lowers blood sugar levels. This is why it is used in Ayurvedic medicine to fight against diabetes. This action is explained by the presence of B vitamins, valuable in the treatment of type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Indeed, vitamin B1 (thiamine) and vitamin B2 (riboflavin) found in mucuna are involved in carbohydrate metabolism and participate in the transformation of sugars. Additionally, they prevent many complications related to diabetes, such as the increase of “bad” cholesterol and triglycerides.
Its hypoglycemic action is also due to the D-chiro-Inositol present in the seeds. This natural compound has an insulin-mimetic effect and is therefore effective against insulin resistance.
This study from the University of Siena, conducted on patients suffering from diabetes, demonstrates the anti-diabetic effects of mucuna seeds.
🏋🏻♀️ Increases muscle mass
Mucuna is an interesting plant for athletes who wish to increase muscle mass. Indeed, by increasing dopamine, it also affects testosterone levels because dopamine and testosterone are closely linked.
Testosterone is a hormone involved in the development of muscle mass, in the growth of tissues and muscle fibers. Testosterone also improves endurance and recovery by promoting muscle relaxation.
The minerals and trace elements of this plant also contribute to gaining mass and improving performance. Iron, for example, promotes muscle oxygenation while potassium reduces muscle contractions and cramps.
This study from Baylor University, conducted on men in intensive training, explains the relationship between the increase in dopamine by mucuna and testosterone levels.
🥝 Antioxidant
In addition to L-Dopa with antioxidant action, mucuna also contains polyphenols (phenols and tannins) that trap and destroy free radicals. The plant is particularly interesting for reducing oxidative stress and its symptoms.
This study from the University of Calcutta, conducted on in vitro models, shows how mucuna seed extract effectively eliminated free radicals.
How to consume mucuna?
Mucuna in tablets
Mucuna tablets or capsules contain extract of seed powder from the plant. It is a form of dietary supplement readily available in organic and specialized stores or online. This format is also a good way to avoid the rather sour taste of the powder.
The capsules should be sufficiently high in L-Dopa (at least 50%) to expect results.
Mucuna in powder form
Mucuna is also available in powder form. After harvest, the seeds are cold-dried and then ground into powder.
It mixes easily with a beverage (water, fruit juice, smoothie…) but its taste might not appeal to everyone. Again, we check its L-Dopa content.
Why choose organic mucuna?
Mucuna is a plant that tends to absorb pollutants, pesticides, and heavy metals. Therefore, it is preferable to choose mucuna grown organically.
The organic label guarantees capsules without chemical residues and non-ionized. Also, prefer capsules without additives or preservatives.
Mucuna and tribulus
Mucuna pairs well with tribulus (Tribulus Terrestris), another Ayurvedic plant. The mucuna/tribulus combination is interesting for enhancing libido and sexual performance.
You can also combine mucuna with turmeric (Curcuma longa) or spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) to boost the body or as part of an athletic practice.
Mucuna dosage
⚖️ The recommended dosage can be up to 900 mg per day. As mucuna is a relatively powerful plant, start with small doses. Depending on your body’s reactions, gradually increase the dose.
⏳ Take the doses twice a day, preferably in the morning and evening. Consumed at breakfast, mucuna provides energy and enhances concentration. Taken in the evening, it reduces stress and promotes sleep.
⏳ Mucuna can be taken as maintenance daily or as a cure for 1 to 3 months. Each cure should be spaced by 2 weeks.
💊 In tablets: up to 3 per day for 300 mg capsules.
🥄 In powder form: 1/2 to 2 teaspoons daily.
Contraindications and side effects
Consuming mucuna presents certain contraindications. Therefore, the plant is not recommended for the following individuals:
- As a precaution, young children, pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid taking mucuna.
- It is not recommended for people with cardiovascular diseases, psychiatric disorders, liver disorders, and progressive cancers.
- Diabetics or those on medication should consult their doctor before consumption.
Side effects, most often mild, may appear after consuming mucuna. Nausea, headaches, and gastrointestinal disturbances may occur. If symptoms persist, stop your intake and consult a doctor.
History, culture, and market of mucuna
Due to its high protein content (up to 35%) and great digestibility, mucuna is an interesting food for human consumption. Very nourishing, it is still widely consumed by rural populations in Asia, America, and Africa, who find many nutrients in it.
It is cultivated and cooked like a green vegetable. Once boiled, the seeds are also used for making flour to feed animals. In Africa, mucuna flour is an interesting substitute for more expensive raw materials for poultry farmers. In Burkina Faso, it is increasingly used for feeding domestic ruminants.
In Guatemala, its seeds (nicknamed “Nescafé”) effectively replace coffee beans without the stimulating effects.
Finally, it is used as green manure due to its ability to fix nitrogen, protect the soil, and slow the development of weeds.
Compiled by Julia Perez and Charlotte Jean
Sources and scientific studies
Kamla Kant Shukla, Abbas Ali Mahdi, Mohammad Kaleem Ahmad, Shyam Pyari Jaiswar, Satya Narain Shankwar, and Sarvada Chandra Tiwari, 2007. Mucuna pruriens Reduces Stress and Improves the Quality of Semen in Infertile Men.
Christopher G. Goetz, 2010 The History of Parkinson’s Disease: Early Clinical Descriptions and Neurological Therapies.
Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 1995. An alternative medicine treatment for Parkinson’s disease: results of a multicenter clinical trial. HP-200 in Parkinson’s Disease Study Group.
Lucia Raffaella Lampariello, Alessio Cortelazzo, Roberto Guerranti, Claudia Sticozzi, and Giuseppe Valacchi, 2012. The Magic Velvet Bean of Mucuna pruriens.
Biswas S, Mallick U.K, Mukherjee A, Ghosh.G, 2010. Antioxidant activity of Mucuna pruriens seeds, cultured callus and L-Dopa.
