A small number of clinical trials suggest that dose-matched Mucuna pruriens exhibits comparable effectiveness to pharmaceutical L-DOPA paired with carbidopa/benserazide for alleviating the general symptoms of Parkinson's disease,[1][2][3] with limited animal research suggesting that these neuroprotective properties may extend to other conditions related to dopamine deficiency.[4] Preliminary research has explored the potential impact of Mucuna pruriens on sperm quality and testosterone levels in the context of male infertility, indicating its potential effectiveness in improving sperm concentration, count, and motility and increasing testosterone levels.[5][6][7][8] Limited evidence from animal studies suggests that Mucuna pruriens may also possess antivenom properties against snakebites,[9][10] and might mitigate the development of cataracts and the increase in urinary albumin levels associated with diabetes.[11][12]
What are Mucuna pruriens’ main benefits?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Mucuna pruriens may effectively alleviate symptoms of Parkinson's disease in a manner comparable to pharmaceutical treatments, and it shows potential benefits for male infertility by improving sperm quality and testosterone levels. Additionally, it may have antivenom properties and could help mitigate cataract development and urinary albumin increase in diabetes.