Yes, Mucuna pruriens is edible, with the beans of the plant having been traditionally used as a food source in some cultures. However, adequate processing (typically soaking in water followed by boiling) is required to destroy antinutrients (such as phytic acid, tannins, and saponins) and to reduce the potentially dangerously high levels of L-DOPA found in the raw beans.[1][2]
Is Mucuna pruriens edible?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Mucuna pruriens is edible, and its beans are traditionally used as food in some cultures. However, they require proper processing, including soaking and boiling, to eliminate antinutrients and reduce high levels of L-DOPA.