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.<a href="#ref-12" id="ref-link-12" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Cassani E, et al. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27206902&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Mucuna pruriens for Parkinson's disease: Low-cost preparation method, laboratory measures and pharmacokinetics profile.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Neurol Sci (2016-Jun-15)&lt;/div&gt;">[12]</a><a href="#ref-13" id="ref-link-13" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Siddhuraju P, Becker K. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11410009" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effect of various domestic processing methods on antinutrients and in vitro protein and starch digestibility of two indigenous varieties of Indian tribal pulse, Mucuna pruriens Var. utilis.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Agric Food Chem (2001-Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[13]</a>

Is Mucuna pruriens edible?

The nutritional profile of Mucuna pruriens seeds can vary depending on a number of factors, including plant variety, growth environment, maturity of the seeds, and type of processing. In general, Mucuna pruriens seeds contain approximately 25–35% protein, 40–65% carbohydrates, 4–14% fat, and 4–12% fiber.<a href="#ref-14" id="ref-link-14" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Ezegbe CC, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37576254" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Proximate composition and anti-nutritional factors in (velvet bean) seed flour as affected by several processing methods.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Heliyon (2023-Aug)&lt;/div&gt;'>[14]</a><a href="#ref-15" id="ref-link-15" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Bhat R, Sridhar KR, Seena S. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17852489" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Nutritional quality evaluation of velvet bean seeds (Mucuna pruriens) exposed to gamma irradiation.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Int J Food Sci Nutr (2008-Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[15]</a><a href="#ref-16" id="ref-link-16" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Kala BK, Mohan VR. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20128635" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Nutritional and anti-nutritional potential of three accessions of itching bean (Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC var. pruriens): an under-utilized tribal pulse.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Int J Food Sci Nutr (2010-Aug)&lt;/div&gt;'>[16]</a>
Parts of the plant also contain:
<ul>
<li>L-DOPA, with mature seeds usually containing between around 2% and 6% of L-DOPA by weight,<a href="#ref-17" id="ref-link-17" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Fernandez-Pastor I, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30216583" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Quantitative NMR analysis of L-Dopa in seeds from two varieties of Mucuna pruriens.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytochem Anal (2019-Jan)&lt;/div&gt;'>[17]</a><a href="#ref-18" id="ref-link-18" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Archana P Raina, Renu Khatri. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22707835" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Quantitative Determination of L-DOPA in Seeds of Mucuna Pruriens Germplasm by High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Indian J Pharm Sci (2011 Jul)&lt;/div&gt;'>[18]</a><a href="#ref-19" id="ref-link-19" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Haridas Pulikkalpura, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26058043" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Levodopa in Mucuna pruriens and its degradation
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Sci Rep (2015 Jun 9)&lt;/div&gt;'>[19]</a> and the roots, stems, and leaves generally containing &lt;1%<a href="#ref-20" id="ref-link-20" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Rakesh B, Hima Bindu K, Praveen N. &lt;a href="https://asianpubs.org/index.php/ajchem/article/view/33_8_27" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Variations in the L-DOPA Content, Phytochemical Constituents and Antioxidant Activity of Different Germlines of &lt;em&gt;Mucuna pruriens&lt;/em&gt; (L.) DC.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;AJC (2021 Jul)&lt;/div&gt;'>[20]</a></li>
<li><a href="/supplements/vitamin-b3/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Niacin (Vitamin B3)&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Niacin is an essential B-vitamin. Supplementation results in improved cholesterol and triglyceride levels. However, since a side-effect of supplementation is increased insulin resistance, niacin supplementation only provides benefits for cardiovascular health if precautions are taken.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">Vitamin B3</a><a href="#ref-2" id="ref-link-2" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Manyam BV, Dhanasekaran M, Hare TA. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15478206" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Neuroprotective effects of the antiparkinson drug Mucuna pruriens.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytother Res (2004-Sep)&lt;/div&gt;'>[2]</a></li>
<li>Tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids, in amounts ranging from 8 to 24 mg per 500 grams of the dried milled seeds<a href="#ref-21" id="ref-link-21" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Misra L, Wagner H. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15451318" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Alkaloidal constituents of Mucuna pruriens seeds.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytochemistry (2004-Sep)&lt;/div&gt;'>[21]</a></li>
<li>NN-dimethyltryptamine (DMT),5-MeO-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT), and bufotenin (although not enough to produce psychedelic effects)<a href="#ref-22" id="ref-link-22" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Ghosal S, Singh S, Bhattacharya SK. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/5546268" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Alkaloids of Mucuna pruries chemistry and pharmacology.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Planta Med (1971-Feb)&lt;/div&gt;'>[22]</a><a href="#ref-23" id="ref-link-23" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Sridhar KR, Bhat R. &lt;a href="https://www.lrrd.org/lrrd19/9/srid19126.htm" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Agrobotanical, nutritional and bioactive potential of unconventional legume - &lt;em&gt;Mucuna&lt;/em&gt;
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;LRRD (2007 Sep)&lt;/div&gt;'>[23]</a></li>
<li>Beta-carboline<a href="#ref-22" id="ref-link-22" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Ghosal S, Singh S, Bhattacharya SK. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/5546268" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Alkaloids of Mucuna pruries chemistry and pharmacology.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Planta Med (1971-Feb)&lt;/div&gt;'>[22]</a></li>
<li>Mucunain (a protease enzyme in the fine hairs on Mucuna pruriens seed pods, which causes skin irritation and itching)<a href="#ref-24" id="ref-link-24" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Reddy VB, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18434511" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Cowhage-evoked itch is mediated by a novel cysteine protease: a ligand of protease-activated receptors.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Neurosci (2008-Apr-23)&lt;/div&gt;'>[24]</a></li>
<li>Various saponins, anthraquinones, <a href="/foods/flavonoids/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Flavonoids&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Flavonoids are a group of antioxidant plant compounds that include flavonols, isoflavones, and anthocyanins. They can be found in many colorful fruits and vegetables as well as wine, tea, and chocolate.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">flavonoids</a>, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, and tannins<a href="#ref-25" id="ref-link-25" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Agbafor KN, Nwachukwu N. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21547085" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Phytochemical Analysis and Antioxidant Property of Leaf Extracts of Vitex doniana and Mucuna pruriens.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Biochem Res Int (2011)&lt;/div&gt;'>[25]</a></li>
<li>GpMuc (a glycoprotein inhibitor of protein digestive enzymes)<a href="#ref-26" id="ref-link-26" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Hope-Onyekwere NS, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22447581" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effects of Mucuna pruriens protease inhibitors on Echis carinatus venom.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytother Res (2012-Dec)&lt;/div&gt;'>[26]</a></li>
<li>Behenic acid<a href="#ref-15" id="ref-link-15" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Bhat R, Sridhar KR, Seena S. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17852489" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Nutritional quality evaluation of velvet bean seeds (Mucuna pruriens) exposed to gamma irradiation.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Int J Food Sci Nutr (2008-Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[15]</a></li>
<li><a href="/supplements/coenzyme-q10/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Coenzyme Q10&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Coenzyme Q10 is a molecule found in mitochondria that has a critical role in producing energy for the body. It also plays an important role in the endogenous antioxidant system.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">CoQ10</a> and nicotine adenine dinucleotide, reduced (NADH)<a href="#ref-2" id="ref-link-2" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Manyam BV, Dhanasekaran M, Hare TA. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15478206" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Neuroprotective effects of the antiparkinson drug Mucuna pruriens.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytother Res (2004-Sep)&lt;/div&gt;'>[2]</a></li>
<li>Two forms of <a href="/supplements/inositol/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Inositol&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Inositol can improve insulin sensitivity and glycemic control, and may help manage polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and prevent gestational diabetes. The most commonly supplemented forms of inositol are &lt;em&gt;myo&lt;/em&gt;-inositol and &lt;em&gt;D-chiro&lt;/em&gt;-inositol, but all forms are interchangeably referred to as &lt;em&gt;inositol&lt;/em&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">inositol</a>: D-chiro inositol and myo-inositol<a href="#ref-27" id="ref-link-27" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Donati D, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16372373" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Antidiabetic oligocyclitols in seeds of Mucuna pruriens.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytother Res (2005-Dec)&lt;/div&gt;'>[27]</a></li>
<li>Dietary minerals, including <a href="/supplements/potassium/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Potassium&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Potassium is essential for normal bodily function. It is obtained in the diet and found in several foods. Potassium-containing drugs are sometimes used to treat certain conditions. Potassium salts (e.g. potassium chloride) are used in reduced-sodium added-potassium salt substitute interventions and in sodium restriction diets to help treat high blood pressure.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">potassium</a>, <a href="/supplements/phosphorus/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Phosphorus&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Phosphorus isn’t commonly supplemented, even though it’s the second most plentiful mineral in our bodies, after calcium. That’s because most diets are typically plentiful in phosphorus, and too much can be an issue. However, certain diets and health conditions can cause phosphorus insufficiency.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">phosphorus</a>, <a href="/supplements/calcium/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Calcium&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Calcium is a dietary macromineral found in high amounts in dairy products, and to a lesser extent in vegetables. Used primarily to support bone health, calcium also has a role in maternal and cardiovascular health.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">calcium</a>, <a href="/supplements/magnesium/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Magnesium&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Magnesium is an essential dietary mineral that is involved in energy production, nervous system function, blood pressure regulation, and blood glucose control. A lack of magnesium in the diet — which is common in modern societies — is associated with an increased risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other health conditions.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">magnesium</a>, <a href="/supplements/iron/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Iron&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Iron is an essential mineral best known for helping red blood cells to carry oxygen. Except in the case of deficiency, iron supplementation has no proven benefit; on the contrary, it can lead to side effects and increased oxidative stress.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">iron</a>, and <a href="/supplements/selenium/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Selenium&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;An Essential Mineral that is heralded for its anti-oxidant capabilities, it forms a part of some anti-oxidant enzymes such as glutathione to confer protective effects. Taking more than needed, however, can cause oxidative damage and may be pro-diabetic.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">selenium</a> <a href="#ref-15" id="ref-link-15" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Bhat R, Sridhar KR, Seena S. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17852489" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Nutritional quality evaluation of velvet bean seeds (Mucuna pruriens) exposed to gamma irradiation.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Int J Food Sci Nutr (2008-Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[15]</a></li>
</ul>

What is the nutritional profile of Mucuna pruriens?

Mucuna pruriens (part of the Fabaceae, or bean, family), commonly known as velvet bean, is a legume that is widespread in tropical regions of the world, including Asia, Africa, and South America.<a href="#ref-32" id="ref-link-32" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Pathania R, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32477848" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;An assessment of potential nutritive and medicinal properties of : a natural food legume.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;3 Biotech (2020-Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[32]</a> It has a wide range of traditional uses in Ayurvedic medicine, including as an aphrodisiac, as a treatment for nervous system disorders, and as an antidote against snake venom.<a href="#ref-33" id="ref-link-33" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Lampariello LR, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24716148" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The Magic Velvet Bean of Mucuna pruriens.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Tradit Complement Med (2012-Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[33]</a><a href="#ref-34" id="ref-link-34" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Soares AM, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16248818" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Medicinal plants with inhibitory properties against snake venoms.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Curr Med Chem (2005)&lt;/div&gt;'>[34]</a> The plant produces seed-containing pods covered in fine hairs that can cause severe itching upon skin contact.<a href="#ref-35" id="ref-link-35" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Kosteletzky F, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19479124" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Impact of scratching on itch and sympathetic reflexes induced by cowhage (Mucuna pruriens) and histamine.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Acta Derm Venereol (2009)&lt;/div&gt;'>[35]</a> Because the seeds of Mucuna pruriens are rich in levodopa (<a href="/supplements/l-dopa/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;L-Dopa&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;L-DOPA is a direct precursor to dopamine, and its supplementation can increase dopamine levels in the body. It is known as Levodopa and is one component of most Parkinson's treatments, and found in high amounts in Mucuna Pruriens.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">L-DOPA</a>), a precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine,<a href="#ref-9" id="ref-link-9" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Katzenschlager R, et al. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15548480&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson's disease: a double blind clinical and pharmacological study
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry (2004 Dec)&lt;/div&gt;">[9]</a> the plant has gained attention as a potential treatment for the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Limited research has explored the potential aphrodisiac, antivenom, and antidiabetic properties of Mucuna pruriens.<a href="#ref-32" id="ref-link-32" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Pathania R, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32477848" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;An assessment of potential nutritive and medicinal properties of : a natural food legume.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;3 Biotech (2020-Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[32]</a>

What is Mucuna pruriens?

To date, no human trials have explored the potential anti-diabetic properties of Mucuna pruriens. In trials conducted in rats (both with and without diabetes), Mucuna pruriens has generally exhibited anti-diabetic properties, reducing blood glucose levels both acutely and with long-term supplementation.<a href="#ref-28" id="ref-link-28" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Majekodunmi SO, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21914541" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Evaluation of the anti-diabetic properties of Mucuna pruriens seed extract.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Asian Pac J Trop Med (2011-Aug)&lt;/div&gt;'>[28]</a><a href="#ref-29" id="ref-link-29" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Rathi SS, Grover JK, Vats V. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12164268" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The effect of Momordica charantia and Mucuna pruriens in experimental diabetes and their effect on key metabolic enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytother Res (2002-May)&lt;/div&gt;'>[29]</a><a href="#ref-30" id="ref-link-30" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Rathi SS, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12458487" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Prevention of experimental diabetic cataract by Indian Ayurvedic plant extracts.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytother Res (2002-Dec)&lt;/div&gt;'>[30]</a><a href="#ref-31" id="ref-link-31" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Bhaskar A, Vidhya VG, Ramya M. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18672037" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Hypoglycemic effect of Mucuna pruriens seed extract on normal and streptozotocin-diabetic rats.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Fitoterapia (2008-Dec)&lt;/div&gt;'>[31]</a>

Does Mucuna pruriens have antidiabetic properties?

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,<a href="#ref-9" id="ref-link-9" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Katzenschlager R, et al. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15548480&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson's disease: a double blind clinical and pharmacological study
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry (2004 Dec)&lt;/div&gt;">[9]</a><a href="#ref-10" id="ref-link-10" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Roberto Cilia, et al. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29352722&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Daily intake of Mucuna pruriens in advanced Parkinson's disease: A 16-week, noninferiority, randomized, crossover, pilot study
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Parkinsonism Relat Disord (2018 Apr)&lt;/div&gt;">[10]</a><a href="#ref-11" id="ref-link-11" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Roberto Cilia, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28679598" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson disease: A double-blind, randomized, controlled, crossover study
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Neurology (2017 Aug 1)&lt;/div&gt;'>[11]</a> with limited animal research suggesting that these neuroprotective properties may extend to other conditions related to dopamine deficiency.<a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Kasture S, et al. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19384573&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Assessment of symptomatic and neuroprotective efficacy of Mucuna pruriens seed extract in rodent model of Parkinson's disease.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Neurotox Res (2009-Feb)&lt;/div&gt;">[7]</a> 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.<a href="#ref-36" id="ref-link-36" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Shukla KK, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18973898" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Mucuna pruriens improves male fertility by its action on the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Fertil Steril (2009 Dec)&lt;/div&gt;'>[36]</a><a href="#ref-37" id="ref-link-37" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Shukla KK, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18955292" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Mucuna pruriens Reduces Stress and Improves the Quality of Semen in Infertile Men
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Evid Based Complement Alternat Med (2010 Mar)&lt;/div&gt;'>[37]</a><a href="#ref-38" id="ref-link-38" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Gupta A, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21459537" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;A proton NMR study of the effect of Mucuna pruriens on seminal plasma metabolites of infertile males
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Pharm Biomed Anal (2011 Jul 15)&lt;/div&gt;'>[38]</a><a href="#ref-39" id="ref-link-39" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Mohammad Kaleem Ahmad, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18001713" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Effect of Mucuna pruriens on semen profile and biochemical parameters in seminal plasma of infertile men
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Fertil Steril (2008 Sep)&lt;/div&gt;'>[39]</a> Limited evidence from animal studies suggests that Mucuna pruriens may also possess antivenom properties against snakebites,<a href="#ref-40" id="ref-link-40" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Guerranti R, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18203263" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Proteomic analysis of the pathophysiological process involved in the antisnake venom effect of Mucuna pruriens extract.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Proteomics (2008-Jan)&lt;/div&gt;'>[40]</a><a href="#ref-41" id="ref-link-41" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Guerranti R, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15369777" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Protection of Mucuna pruriens seeds against Echis carinatus venom is exerted through a multiform glycoprotein whose oligosaccharide chains are functional in this role.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Biochem Biophys Res Commun (2004-Oct-15)&lt;/div&gt;'>[41]</a> and might mitigate the development of cataracts and the increase in urinary albumin levels associated with diabetes.<a href="#ref-30" id="ref-link-30" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Rathi SS, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12458487" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Prevention of experimental diabetic cataract by Indian Ayurvedic plant extracts.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytother Res (2002-Dec)&lt;/div&gt;'>[30]</a><a href="#ref-42" id="ref-link-42" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Grover JK, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11448544" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Traditional Indian anti-diabetic plants attenuate progression of renal damage in streptozotocin induced diabetic mice.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Ethnopharmacol (2001-Aug)&lt;/div&gt;'>[42]</a>

What are Mucuna pruriens’ main benefits?

As with isolated L-DOPA, supplementation with Mucuna pruriens has been reported to be associated with nausea, dizziness, and drowsiness.<a href="#ref-10" id="ref-link-10" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Roberto Cilia, et al. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29352722&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Daily intake of Mucuna pruriens in advanced Parkinson's disease: A 16-week, noninferiority, randomized, crossover, pilot study
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Parkinsonism Relat Disord (2018 Apr)&lt;/div&gt;">[10]</a><a href="#ref-9" id="ref-link-9" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Katzenschlager R, et al. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15548480&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson's disease: a double blind clinical and pharmacological study
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry (2004 Dec)&lt;/div&gt;">[9]</a> Instances of acute toxic psychosis linked to the consumption of Mucuna pruriens in its bean form have been reported in Mozambique.<a href="#ref-43" id="ref-link-43" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Infante ME, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1978001" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Outbreak of acute toxic psychosis attributed to Mucuna pruriens.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Lancet (1990-Nov-03)&lt;/div&gt;'>[43]</a> This phenomenon is believed to have mainly been a consequence of eating raw, inadequately prepared Mucuna pruriens beans.

What are Mucuna pruriens’ main drawbacks?

Both Mucuna pruriens and isolated L-DOPA are apparently effective for the treatment of Parkinson's symptoms. However, preliminary evidence from animal research suggests that Mucuna pruriens may be, in some ways, superior to isolated L-DOPA.
For example, in one animal study, treatment with Mucuna pruriens resulted in a lower incidence of dyskinesia compared to treatment with the same amount of isolated L-DOPA.<a href="#ref-1" id="ref-link-1" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Lieu CA, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20570206" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;A water extract of Mucuna pruriens provides long-term amelioration of parkinsonism with reduced risk for dyskinesias.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Parkinsonism Relat Disord (2010-Aug)&lt;/div&gt;'>[1]</a>. Moreover, in a rat model of Parkinson’s disease, Mucuna pruriens cotyledon powder was more effective than the same amount of isolated L-DOPA for restoring the brain levels of dopamine, L-DOPA, norepinephrine, and serotonin, and exhibited greater neuroprotective activity.<a href="#ref-2" id="ref-link-2" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Manyam BV, Dhanasekaran M, Hare TA. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15478206" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Neuroprotective effects of the antiparkinson drug Mucuna pruriens.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytother Res (2004-Sep)&lt;/div&gt;'>[2]</a>
One potential explanation for the findings above relates to the DNA-protective properties of Mucuna pruriens. More specifically, it has been suggested that, in the presence of copper ions (the levels of which have been reported to be elevated in individuals with Parkinson’s disease), L-DOPA may cause extensive oxidative DNA damage.<a href="#ref-3" id="ref-link-3" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Spencer JP, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7957867" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Intense oxidative DNA damage promoted by L-dopa and its metabolites. Implications for neurodegenerative disease.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;FEBS Lett (1994-Oct-24)&lt;/div&gt;'>[3]</a> While this could be a concern with the use of isolated L-DOPA, some of the constituents of Mucuna pruriens have antioxidant and metal-chelating properties, potentially mitigating the risk of DNA damage.<a href="#ref-4" id="ref-link-4" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Tharakan B, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17622977" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Anti-Parkinson botanical Mucuna pruriens prevents levodopa induced plasmid and genomic DNA damage.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytother Res (2007-Dec)&lt;/div&gt;'>[4]</a><a href="#ref-5" id="ref-link-5" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Dhanasekaran M, Tharakan B, Manyam BV. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18064727" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Antiparkinson drug--Mucuna pruriens shows antioxidant and metal chelating activity.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytother Res (2008-Jan)&lt;/div&gt;'>[5]</a>
Another potential explanation for the above relates to the finding that in rodents, at least, L-DOPA-containing preparations of Mucuna pruriens are 2–3 times as potent as the equivalent dose of isolated (synthetic) L-DOPA.<a href="#ref-6" id="ref-link-6" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Hussian G, Manyam BV. &lt;a href=&quot;https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/(SICI)1099-1573(199709)11:6%3C419::AID-PTR120%3E3.0.CO;2-Q&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Mucuna pruriens proves more effective than L-DOPA in Parkinson's disease animal model
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytother Res (1998 Dec)&lt;/div&gt;">[6]</a><a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Kasture S, et al. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19384573&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Assessment of symptomatic and neuroprotective efficacy of Mucuna pruriens seed extract in rodent model of Parkinson's disease.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Neurotox Res (2009-Feb)&lt;/div&gt;">[7]</a> This higher potency could be due to components in Mucuna pruriens acting as dopamine decarboxylase inhibitors, preventing the conversion of L-DOPA into dopamine in peripheral tissues, thereby allowing more L-DOPA to reach the brain.<a href="#ref-1" id="ref-link-1" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Lieu CA, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20570206" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;A water extract of Mucuna pruriens provides long-term amelioration of parkinsonism with reduced risk for dyskinesias.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Parkinsonism Relat Disord (2010-Aug)&lt;/div&gt;'>[1]</a> It could also be due to other components in Mucuna pruriens having anti-Parkinsonian properties.<a href="#ref-8" id="ref-link-8" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Misra L, Wagner H. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17385342" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Extraction of bioactive principles from Mucuna pruriens seeds.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Indian J Biochem Biophys (2007-Feb)&lt;/div&gt;'>[8]</a>
With the above said, the standard treatment with L-DOPA for Parkinson’s usually involves pairing L-DOPA with carbidopa or benserazide (which are dopamine decarboxylase inhibitors). In human trials comparing Mucuna pruriens to L-DOPA + carbidopa/benserazide, the findings suggest similar effectiveness at reducing the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, with Mucuna pruriens potentially having a more favorable tolerability profile.<a href="#ref-9" id="ref-link-9" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Katzenschlager R, et al. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15548480&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson's disease: a double blind clinical and pharmacological study
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry (2004 Dec)&lt;/div&gt;">[9]</a><a href="#ref-10" id="ref-link-10" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Roberto Cilia, et al. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29352722&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Daily intake of Mucuna pruriens in advanced Parkinson's disease: A 16-week, noninferiority, randomized, crossover, pilot study
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Parkinsonism Relat Disord (2018 Apr)&lt;/div&gt;">[10]</a><a href="#ref-11" id="ref-link-11" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Roberto Cilia, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28679598" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson disease: A double-blind, randomized, controlled, crossover study
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Neurology (2017 Aug 1)&lt;/div&gt;'>[11]</a>

Is Mucuna pruriens superior to isolated L-DOPA?

For reducing the symptoms of Parkinson’s and other conditions related to dopamine deficiency, Mucuna pruriens is thought to work by increasing serum dopamine levels due to its high content of L-DOPA, a natural precursor to dopamine.<a href="#ref-32" id="ref-link-32" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Pathania R, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32477848" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;An assessment of potential nutritive and medicinal properties of : a natural food legume.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;3 Biotech (2020-Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[32]</a> The potential beneficial effects of Mucuna pruriens on male fertility and testosterone levels may be due to L-DOPA’s action on the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis.<a href="#ref-36" id="ref-link-36" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Shukla KK, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18973898" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Mucuna pruriens improves male fertility by its action on the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Fertil Steril (2009 Dec)&lt;/div&gt;'>[36]</a> The antivenom effects of Mucuna pruriens are likely due to an immune mechanism in which glycoproteins found in the bean are thought to stimulate the production of antibodies that bind to venom proteins, neutralizing the toxic effects of the venom.<a href="#ref-33" id="ref-link-33" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Lampariello LR, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24716148" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The Magic Velvet Bean of Mucuna pruriens.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Tradit Complement Med (2012-Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[33]</a> Additional research is needed to further understand the potential antidiabetic effects of Mucuna pruriens, but existing evidence indicates the involvement of a compound known as D-chiro-inositol, which is present in the seeds of the plant.<a href="#ref-27" id="ref-link-27" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Donati D, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16372373" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Antidiabetic oligocyclitols in seeds of Mucuna pruriens.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytother Res (2005-Dec)&lt;/div&gt;'>[27]</a>

How does Mucuna pruriens work?

Mucuna Pruriens

Mental Health

A water extract of Mucuna pruriens provides long-term amelioration of parkinsonism with reduced risk for dyskinesias.

Neuroprotective effects of the antiparkinson drug Mucuna pruriens.

Intense oxidative DNA damage promoted by L-dopa and its metabolites. Implications for neurodegenerative disease.

Anti-Parkinson botanical Mucuna pruriens prevents levodopa induced plasmid and genomic DNA damage.

Antiparkinson drug--Mucuna pruriens shows antioxidant and metal chelating activity.

Mucuna pruriens proves more effective than L-DOPA in Parkinson's disease animal model

Assessment of symptomatic and neuroprotective efficacy of Mucuna pruriens seed extract in rodent model of Parkinson's disease.

Extraction of bioactive principles from Mucuna pruriens seeds.

Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson's disease: a double blind clinical and pharmacological study

Daily intake of Mucuna pruriens in advanced Parkinson's disease: A 16-week, noninferiority, randomized, crossover, pilot study

Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson disease: A double-blind, randomized, controlled, crossover study

Mucuna pruriens for Parkinson's disease: Low-cost preparation method, laboratory measures and pharmacokinetics profile.

Effect of various domestic processing methods on antinutrients and in vitro protein and starch digestibility of two indigenous varieties of Indian tribal pulse, Mucuna pruriens Var. utilis.

Proximate composition and anti-nutritional factors in  (velvet bean) seed flour as affected by several processing methods.

Nutritional quality evaluation of velvet bean seeds (Mucuna pruriens) exposed to gamma irradiation.

Nutritional and anti-nutritional potential of three accessions of itching bean (Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC var. pruriens): an under-utilized tribal pulse.

Quantitative NMR analysis of L-Dopa in seeds from two varieties of Mucuna pruriens.

Quantitative Determination of L-DOPA in Seeds of Mucuna Pruriens Germplasm by High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography

Levodopa in Mucuna pruriens and its degradation

Variations in the L-DOPA Content, Phytochemical Constituents and Antioxidant Activity of Different Germlines of *Mucuna pruriens* (L.) DC.

Alkaloidal constituents of Mucuna pruriens seeds.

Alkaloids of Mucuna pruries chemistry and pharmacology.

Agrobotanical, nutritional and bioactive potential of unconventional legume - *Mucuna*

Cowhage-evoked itch is mediated by a novel cysteine protease: a ligand of protease-activated receptors.

Phytochemical Analysis and Antioxidant Property of Leaf Extracts of Vitex doniana and Mucuna pruriens.

Effects of Mucuna pruriens protease inhibitors on Echis carinatus venom.

Antidiabetic oligocyclitols in seeds of Mucuna pruriens.

Evaluation of the anti-diabetic properties of Mucuna pruriens seed extract.

The effect of Momordica charantia and Mucuna pruriens in experimental diabetes and their effect on key metabolic enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism.

Prevention of experimental diabetic cataract by Indian Ayurvedic plant extracts.

Hypoglycemic effect of Mucuna pruriens seed extract on normal and streptozotocin-diabetic rats.

An assessment of potential nutritive and medicinal properties of : a natural food legume.

The Magic Velvet Bean of Mucuna pruriens.

Medicinal plants with inhibitory properties against snake venoms.

Impact of scratching on itch and sympathetic reflexes induced by cowhage (Mucuna pruriens) and histamine.

Mucuna pruriens improves male fertility by its action on the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis

Mucuna pruriens Reduces Stress and Improves the Quality of Semen in Infertile Men

A proton NMR study of the effect of Mucuna pruriens on seminal plasma metabolites of infertile males

Effect of Mucuna pruriens on semen profile and biochemical parameters in seminal plasma of infertile men

Proteomic analysis of the pathophysiological process involved in the antisnake venom effect of Mucuna pruriens extract.

Protection of Mucuna pruriens seeds against Echis carinatus venom is exerted through a multiform glycoprotein whose oligosaccharide chains are functional in this role.

Traditional Indian anti-diabetic plants attenuate progression of renal damage in streptozotocin induced diabetic mice.

Outbreak of acute toxic psychosis attributed to Mucuna pruriens.

Gregory Lopez

Nick Milazzo

Natalka Roshak

Antonis Damianou

Wyatt Brown

Katherine Nguyen

Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's Disease Symptoms

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.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27206902|title=Mucuna pruriens for Parkinson's disease: Low-cost preparation method, laboratory measures and pharmacokinetics profile.|published=2016-Jun-15|authors=Cassani E, Cilia R, Laguna J, Barichella M, Contin M, Cereda E, Isaias IU, Sparvoli F, Akpalu A, Budu KO, Scarpa MT, Pezzoli G|journal=J Neurol Sci|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11410009|title=Effect of various domestic processing methods on antinutrients and in vitro protein and starch digestibility of two indigenous varieties of Indian tribal pulse, Mucuna pruriens Var. utilis.|published=2001-Jun|authors=Siddhuraju P, Becker K|journal=J Agric Food Chem|]

The nutritional profile of Mucuna pruriens seeds can vary depending on a number of factors, including plant variety, growth environment, maturity of the seeds, and type of processing. In general, Mucuna pruriens seeds contain approximately 25–35% protein, 40–65% carbohydrates, 4–14% fat, and 4–12% fiber.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37576254|title=Proximate composition and anti-nutritional factors in (velvet bean) seed flour as affected by several processing methods.|published=2023-Aug|authors=Ezegbe CC, Nwosu JN, Owuamanam CI, Victor-Aduloju TA, Nkhata SG|journal=Heliyon|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17852489|title=Nutritional quality evaluation of velvet bean seeds (Mucuna pruriens) exposed to gamma irradiation.|published=2008-Jun|authors=Bhat R, Sridhar KR, Seena S|journal=Int J Food Sci Nutr|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20128635|title=Nutritional and anti-nutritional potential of three accessions of itching bean (Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC var. pruriens): an under-utilized tribal pulse.|published=2010-Aug|authors=Kala BK, Mohan VR|journal=Int J Food Sci Nutr|]
Parts of the plant also contain:
<ul>
<li>L-DOPA, with mature seeds usually containing between around 2% and 6% of L-DOPA by weight,[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30216583|title=Quantitative NMR analysis of L-Dopa in seeds from two varieties of Mucuna pruriens.|published=2019-Jan|authors=Fernandez-Pastor I, Luque-Muñoz A, Rivas F, Medina-O'Donnell M, Martinez A, Gonzalez-Maldonado R, Haidour A, Parra A|journal=Phytochem Anal|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22707835|title=Quantitative Determination of L-DOPA in Seeds of Mucuna Pruriens Germplasm by High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography|published=2011 Jul|authors=Archana P Raina, Renu Khatri|journal=Indian J Pharm Sci|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26058043|title=Levodopa in Mucuna pruriens and its degradation|published=2015 Jun 9|authors=Haridas Pulikkalpura, Rajani Kurup, Paravanparampil Jacob Mathew, Sabulal Baby|journal=Sci Rep|] and the roots, stems, and leaves generally containing &lt;1%[reference|url=https://asianpubs.org/index.php/ajchem/article/view/33_8_27|title=Variations in the L-DOPA Content, Phytochemical Constituents and Antioxidant Activity of Different Germlines of Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC.|published=2021 Jul|authors=Rakesh B, Hima Bindu K, Praveen N|journal=AJC]</li>
<li><a href="/supplements/vitamin-b3/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Niacin (Vitamin B3)&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Niacin is an essential B-vitamin. Supplementation results in improved cholesterol and triglyceride levels. However, since a side-effect of supplementation is increased insulin resistance, niacin supplementation only provides benefits for cardiovascular health if precautions are taken.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">Vitamin B3</a>[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15478206|title=Neuroprotective effects of the antiparkinson drug Mucuna pruriens.|published=2004-Sep|authors=Manyam BV, Dhanasekaran M, Hare TA|journal=Phytother Res|]</li>
<li>Tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids, in amounts ranging from 8 to 24 mg per 500 grams of the dried milled seeds[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15451318|title=Alkaloidal constituents of Mucuna pruriens seeds.|published=2004-Sep|authors=Misra L, Wagner H|journal=Phytochemistry|]</li>
<li>NN-dimethyltryptamine (DMT),5-MeO-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT), and bufotenin (although not enough to produce psychedelic effects)[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/5546268|title=Alkaloids of Mucuna pruries chemistry and pharmacology.|published=1971-Feb|authors=Ghosal S, Singh S, Bhattacharya SK|journal=Planta Med|][reference|url=https://www.lrrd.org/lrrd19/9/srid19126.htm|title=Agrobotanical, nutritional and bioactive potential of unconventional legume - Mucuna|published=2007 Sep|authors=Sridhar KR, Bhat R|journal=LRRD]</li>
<li>Beta-carboline[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/5546268|title=Alkaloids of Mucuna pruries chemistry and pharmacology.|published=1971-Feb|authors=Ghosal S, Singh S, Bhattacharya SK|journal=Planta Med|]</li>
<li>Mucunain (a protease enzyme in the fine hairs on Mucuna pruriens seed pods, which causes skin irritation and itching)[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18434511|title=Cowhage-evoked itch is mediated by a novel cysteine protease: a ligand of protease-activated receptors.|published=2008-Apr-23|authors=Reddy VB, Iuga AO, Shimada SG, LaMotte RH, Lerner EA|journal=J Neurosci|]</li>
<li>Various saponins, anthraquinones, <a href="/foods/flavonoids/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Flavonoids&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Flavonoids are a group of antioxidant plant compounds that include flavonols, isoflavones, and anthocyanins. They can be found in many colorful fruits and vegetables as well as wine, tea, and chocolate.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">flavonoids</a>, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, and tannins[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21547085|title=Phytochemical Analysis and Antioxidant Property of Leaf Extracts of Vitex doniana and Mucuna pruriens.|published=2011|authors=Agbafor KN, Nwachukwu N|journal=Biochem Res Int|]</li>
<li>GpMuc (a glycoprotein inhibitor of protein digestive enzymes)[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22447581|title=Effects of Mucuna pruriens protease inhibitors on Echis carinatus venom.|published=2012-Dec|authors=Hope-Onyekwere NS, Ogueli GI, Cortelazzo A, Cerutti H, Cito A, Aguiyi JC, Guerranti R|journal=Phytother Res|]</li>
<li>Behenic acid[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17852489|title=Nutritional quality evaluation of velvet bean seeds (Mucuna pruriens) exposed to gamma irradiation.|published=2008-Jun|authors=Bhat R, Sridhar KR, Seena S|journal=Int J Food Sci Nutr|]</li>
<li><a href="/supplements/coenzyme-q10/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Coenzyme Q10&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Coenzyme Q10 is a molecule found in mitochondria that has a critical role in producing energy for the body. It also plays an important role in the endogenous antioxidant system.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">CoQ10</a> and nicotine adenine dinucleotide, reduced (NADH)[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15478206|title=Neuroprotective effects of the antiparkinson drug Mucuna pruriens.|published=2004-Sep|authors=Manyam BV, Dhanasekaran M, Hare TA|journal=Phytother Res|]</li>
<li>Two forms of <a href="/supplements/inositol/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Inositol&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Inositol can improve insulin sensitivity and glycemic control, and may help manage polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and prevent gestational diabetes. The most commonly supplemented forms of inositol are &lt;em&gt;myo&lt;/em&gt;-inositol and &lt;em&gt;D-chiro&lt;/em&gt;-inositol, but all forms are interchangeably referred to as &lt;em&gt;inositol&lt;/em&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">inositol</a>: D-chiro inositol and myo-inositol[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16372373|title=Antidiabetic oligocyclitols in seeds of Mucuna pruriens.|published=2005-Dec|authors=Donati D, Lampariello LR, Pagani R, Guerranti R, Cinci G, Marinello E|journal=Phytother Res|]</li>
<li>Dietary minerals, including <a href="/supplements/potassium/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Potassium&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Potassium is essential for normal bodily function. It is obtained in the diet and found in several foods. Potassium-containing drugs are sometimes used to treat certain conditions. Potassium salts (e.g. potassium chloride) are used in reduced-sodium added-potassium salt substitute interventions and in sodium restriction diets to help treat high blood pressure.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">potassium</a>, <a href="/supplements/phosphorus/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Phosphorus&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Phosphorus isn’t commonly supplemented, even though it’s the second most plentiful mineral in our bodies, after calcium. That’s because most diets are typically plentiful in phosphorus, and too much can be an issue. However, certain diets and health conditions can cause phosphorus insufficiency.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">phosphorus</a>, <a href="/supplements/calcium/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Calcium&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Calcium is a dietary macromineral found in high amounts in dairy products, and to a lesser extent in vegetables. Used primarily to support bone health, calcium also has a role in maternal and cardiovascular health.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">calcium</a>, <a href="/supplements/magnesium/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Magnesium&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Magnesium is an essential dietary mineral that is involved in energy production, nervous system function, blood pressure regulation, and blood glucose control. A lack of magnesium in the diet — which is common in modern societies — is associated with an increased risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other health conditions.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">magnesium</a>, <a href="/supplements/iron/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Iron&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Iron is an essential mineral best known for helping red blood cells to carry oxygen. Except in the case of deficiency, iron supplementation has no proven benefit; on the contrary, it can lead to side effects and increased oxidative stress.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">iron</a>, and <a href="/supplements/selenium/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Selenium&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;An Essential Mineral that is heralded for its anti-oxidant capabilities, it forms a part of some anti-oxidant enzymes such as glutathione to confer protective effects. Taking more than needed, however, can cause oxidative damage and may be pro-diabetic.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">selenium</a> [reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17852489|title=Nutritional quality evaluation of velvet bean seeds (Mucuna pruriens) exposed to gamma irradiation.|published=2008-Jun|authors=Bhat R, Sridhar KR, Seena S|journal=Int J Food Sci Nutr|]</li>
</ul>

Mucuna pruriens (part of the Fabaceae, or bean, family), commonly known as velvet bean, is a legume that is widespread in tropical regions of the world, including Asia, Africa, and South America.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32477848|title=An assessment of potential nutritive and medicinal properties of : a natural food legume.|published=2020-Jun|authors=Pathania R, Chawla P, Khan H, Kaushik R, Khan MA|journal=3 Biotech|] It has a wide range of traditional uses in Ayurvedic medicine, including as an aphrodisiac, as a treatment for nervous system disorders, and as an antidote against snake venom.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24716148|title=The Magic Velvet Bean of Mucuna pruriens.|published=2012-Oct|authors=Lampariello LR, Cortelazzo A, Guerranti R, Sticozzi C, Valacchi G|journal=J Tradit Complement Med|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16248818|title=Medicinal plants with inhibitory properties against snake venoms.|published=2005|authors=Soares AM, Ticli FK, Marcussi S, Lourenço MV, Januário AH, Sampaio SV, Giglio JR, Lomonte B, Pereira PS|journal=Curr Med Chem|] The plant produces seed-containing pods covered in fine hairs that can cause severe itching upon skin contact.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19479124|title=Impact of scratching on itch and sympathetic reflexes induced by cowhage (Mucuna pruriens) and histamine.|published=2009|authors=Kosteletzky F, Namer B, Forster C, Handwerker HO|journal=Acta Derm Venereol|] Because the seeds of Mucuna pruriens are rich in levodopa (<a href="/supplements/l-dopa/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;L-Dopa&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;L-DOPA is a direct precursor to dopamine, and its supplementation can increase dopamine levels in the body. It is known as Levodopa and is one component of most Parkinson's treatments, and found in high amounts in Mucuna Pruriens.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">L-DOPA</a>), a precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine,[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15548480|title=Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson's disease: a double blind clinical and pharmacological study|published=2004 Dec|authors=Katzenschlager R, Evans A, Manson A, Patsalos PN, Ratnaraj N, Watt H, Timmermann L, Van der Giessen R, Lees AJ|journal=J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry|] the plant has gained attention as a potential treatment for the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Limited research has explored the potential aphrodisiac, antivenom, and antidiabetic properties of Mucuna pruriens.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32477848|title=An assessment of potential nutritive and medicinal properties of : a natural food legume.|published=2020-Jun|authors=Pathania R, Chawla P, Khan H, Kaushik R, Khan MA|journal=3 Biotech|]

To date, no human trials have explored the potential anti-diabetic properties of Mucuna pruriens. In trials conducted in rats (both with and without diabetes), Mucuna pruriens has generally exhibited anti-diabetic properties, reducing blood glucose levels both acutely and with long-term supplementation.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21914541|title=Evaluation of the anti-diabetic properties of Mucuna pruriens seed extract.|published=2011-Aug|authors=Majekodunmi SO, Oyagbemi AA, Umukoro S, Odeku OA|journal=Asian Pac J Trop Med|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12164268|title=The effect of Momordica charantia and Mucuna pruriens in experimental diabetes and their effect on key metabolic enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism.|published=2002-May|authors=Rathi SS, Grover JK, Vats V|journal=Phytother Res|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12458487|title=Prevention of experimental diabetic cataract by Indian Ayurvedic plant extracts.|published=2002-Dec|authors=Rathi SS, Grover JK, Vikrant V, Biswas NR|journal=Phytother Res|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18672037|title=Hypoglycemic effect of Mucuna pruriens seed extract on normal and streptozotocin-diabetic rats.|published=2008-Dec|authors=Bhaskar A, Vidhya VG, Ramya M|journal=Fitoterapia|]

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,[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15548480|title=Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson's disease: a double blind clinical and pharmacological study|published=2004 Dec|authors=Katzenschlager R, Evans A, Manson A, Patsalos PN, Ratnaraj N, Watt H, Timmermann L, Van der Giessen R, Lees AJ|journal=J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29352722|title=Daily intake of Mucuna pruriens in advanced Parkinson's disease: A 16-week, noninferiority, randomized, crossover, pilot study|published=2018 Apr|authors=Roberto Cilia, Janeth Laguna, Erica Cassani, Emanuele Cereda, Benedetta Raspini, Michela Barichella, Gianni Pezzoli|journal=Parkinsonism Relat Disord|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28679598|title=Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson disease: A double-blind, randomized, controlled, crossover study|published=2017 Aug 1|authors=Roberto Cilia, Janeth Laguna, Erica Cassani, Emanuele Cereda, Nicolò G Pozzi, Ioannis U Isaias, Manuela Contin, Michela Barichella, Gianni Pezzoli|journal=Neurology|] with limited animal research suggesting that these neuroprotective properties may extend to other conditions related to dopamine deficiency.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19384573|title=Assessment of symptomatic and neuroprotective efficacy of Mucuna pruriens seed extract in rodent model of Parkinson's disease.|published=2009-Feb|authors=Kasture S, Pontis S, Pinna A, Schintu N, Spina L, Longoni R, Simola N, Ballero M, Morelli M|journal=Neurotox Res|] 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.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18973898|title=Mucuna pruriens improves male fertility by its action on the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis|published=2009 Dec|authors=Shukla KK, Mahdi AA, Ahmad MK, Shankhwar SN, Rajender S, Jaiswar SP|journal=Fertil Steril|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18955292|title=Mucuna pruriens Reduces Stress and Improves the Quality of Semen in Infertile Men|published=2010 Mar|authors=Shukla KK, Mahdi AA, Ahmad MK, Jaiswar SP, Shankwar SN, Tiwari SC|journal=Evid Based Complement Alternat Med|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21459537|title=A proton NMR study of the effect of Mucuna pruriens on seminal plasma metabolites of infertile males|published=2011 Jul 15|authors=Gupta A, Mahdi AA, Ahmad MK, Shukla KK, Bansal N, Jaiswer SP, Shankhwar SN|journal=J Pharm Biomed Anal|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18001713|title=Effect of Mucuna pruriens on semen profile and biochemical parameters in seminal plasma of infertile men|published=2008 Sep|authors=Mohammad Kaleem Ahmad, Abbas Ali Mahdi, Kamla Kant Shukla, Najmul Islam, Shyam Pyari Jaiswar, Sohail Ahmad|journal=Fertil Steril|] Limited evidence from animal studies suggests that Mucuna pruriens may also possess antivenom properties against snakebites,[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18203263|title=Proteomic analysis of the pathophysiological process involved in the antisnake venom effect of Mucuna pruriens extract.|published=2008-Jan|authors=Guerranti R, Ogueli IG, Bertocci E, Muzzi C, Aguiyi JC, Cianti R, Armini A, Bini L, Leoncini R, Marinello E, Pagani R|journal=Proteomics|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15369777|title=Protection of Mucuna pruriens seeds against Echis carinatus venom is exerted through a multiform glycoprotein whose oligosaccharide chains are functional in this role.|published=2004-Oct-15|authors=Guerranti R, Aguiyi JC, Ogueli IG, Onorati G, Neri S, Rosati F, Del Buono F, Lampariello R, Pagani R, Marinello E|journal=Biochem Biophys Res Commun|] and might mitigate the development of cataracts and the increase in urinary albumin levels associated with diabetes.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12458487|title=Prevention of experimental diabetic cataract by Indian Ayurvedic plant extracts.|published=2002-Dec|authors=Rathi SS, Grover JK, Vikrant V, Biswas NR|journal=Phytother Res|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11448544|title=Traditional Indian anti-diabetic plants attenuate progression of renal damage in streptozotocin induced diabetic mice.|published=2001-Aug|authors=Grover JK, Vats V, Rathi SS, Dawar R|journal=J Ethnopharmacol|]

As with isolated L-DOPA, supplementation with Mucuna pruriens has been reported to be associated with nausea, dizziness, and drowsiness.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29352722|title=Daily intake of Mucuna pruriens in advanced Parkinson's disease: A 16-week, noninferiority, randomized, crossover, pilot study|published=2018 Apr|authors=Roberto Cilia, Janeth Laguna, Erica Cassani, Emanuele Cereda, Benedetta Raspini, Michela Barichella, Gianni Pezzoli|journal=Parkinsonism Relat Disord|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15548480|title=Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson's disease: a double blind clinical and pharmacological study|published=2004 Dec|authors=Katzenschlager R, Evans A, Manson A, Patsalos PN, Ratnaraj N, Watt H, Timmermann L, Van der Giessen R, Lees AJ|journal=J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry|] Instances of acute toxic psychosis linked to the consumption of Mucuna pruriens in its bean form have been reported in Mozambique.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1978001|title=Outbreak of acute toxic psychosis attributed to Mucuna pruriens.|published=1990-Nov-03|authors=Infante ME, Perez AM, Simao MR, Manda F, Baquete EF, Fernandes AM, Cliff JL|journal=Lancet|] This phenomenon is believed to have mainly been a consequence of eating raw, inadequately prepared Mucuna pruriens beans.

Both Mucuna pruriens and isolated L-DOPA are apparently effective for the treatment of Parkinson's symptoms. However, preliminary evidence from animal research suggests that Mucuna pruriens may be, in some ways, superior to isolated L-DOPA.
For example, in one animal study, treatment with Mucuna pruriens resulted in a lower incidence of dyskinesia compared to treatment with the same amount of isolated L-DOPA.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20570206|title=A water extract of Mucuna pruriens provides long-term amelioration of parkinsonism with reduced risk for dyskinesias.|published=2010-Aug|authors=Lieu CA, Kunselman AR, Manyam BV, Venkiteswaran K, Subramanian T|journal=Parkinsonism Relat Disord|]. Moreover, in a rat model of Parkinson’s disease, Mucuna pruriens cotyledon powder was more effective than the same amount of isolated L-DOPA for restoring the brain levels of dopamine, L-DOPA, norepinephrine, and serotonin, and exhibited greater neuroprotective activity.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15478206|title=Neuroprotective effects of the antiparkinson drug Mucuna pruriens.|published=2004-Sep|authors=Manyam BV, Dhanasekaran M, Hare TA|journal=Phytother Res|]
One potential explanation for the findings above relates to the DNA-protective properties of Mucuna pruriens. More specifically, it has been suggested that, in the presence of copper ions (the levels of which have been reported to be elevated in individuals with Parkinson’s disease), L-DOPA may cause extensive oxidative DNA damage.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7957867|title=Intense oxidative DNA damage promoted by L-dopa and its metabolites. Implications for neurodegenerative disease.|published=1994-Oct-24|authors=Spencer JP, Jenner A, Aruoma OI, Evans PJ, Kaur H, Dexter DT, Jenner P, Lees AJ, Marsden DC, Halliwell B|journal=FEBS Lett|] While this could be a concern with the use of isolated L-DOPA, some of the constituents of Mucuna pruriens have antioxidant and metal-chelating properties, potentially mitigating the risk of DNA damage.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17622977|title=Anti-Parkinson botanical Mucuna pruriens prevents levodopa induced plasmid and genomic DNA damage.|published=2007-Dec|authors=Tharakan B, Dhanasekaran M, Mize-Berge J, Manyam BV|journal=Phytother Res|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18064727|title=Antiparkinson drug--Mucuna pruriens shows antioxidant and metal chelating activity.|published=2008-Jan|authors=Dhanasekaran M, Tharakan B, Manyam BV|journal=Phytother Res|]
Another potential explanation for the above relates to the finding that in rodents, at least, L-DOPA-containing preparations of Mucuna pruriens are 2–3 times as potent as the equivalent dose of isolated (synthetic) L-DOPA.[reference|url=https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/(SICI)1099-1573(199709)11:6%3C419::AID-PTR120%3E3.0.CO;2-Q|title=Mucuna pruriens proves more effective than L-DOPA in Parkinson's disease animal model|published=1998 Dec|authors=Hussian G, Manyam BV|journal=Phytother Res][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19384573|title=Assessment of symptomatic and neuroprotective efficacy of Mucuna pruriens seed extract in rodent model of Parkinson's disease.|published=2009-Feb|authors=Kasture S, Pontis S, Pinna A, Schintu N, Spina L, Longoni R, Simola N, Ballero M, Morelli M|journal=Neurotox Res|] This higher potency could be due to components in Mucuna pruriens acting as dopamine decarboxylase inhibitors, preventing the conversion of L-DOPA into dopamine in peripheral tissues, thereby allowing more L-DOPA to reach the brain.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20570206|title=A water extract of Mucuna pruriens provides long-term amelioration of parkinsonism with reduced risk for dyskinesias.|published=2010-Aug|authors=Lieu CA, Kunselman AR, Manyam BV, Venkiteswaran K, Subramanian T|journal=Parkinsonism Relat Disord|] It could also be due to other components in Mucuna pruriens having anti-Parkinsonian properties.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17385342|title=Extraction of bioactive principles from Mucuna pruriens seeds.|published=2007-Feb|authors=Misra L, Wagner H|journal=Indian J Biochem Biophys|]
With the above said, the standard treatment with L-DOPA for Parkinson’s usually involves pairing L-DOPA with carbidopa or benserazide (which are dopamine decarboxylase inhibitors). In human trials comparing Mucuna pruriens to L-DOPA + carbidopa/benserazide, the findings suggest similar effectiveness at reducing the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, with Mucuna pruriens potentially having a more favorable tolerability profile.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15548480|title=Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson's disease: a double blind clinical and pharmacological study|published=2004 Dec|authors=Katzenschlager R, Evans A, Manson A, Patsalos PN, Ratnaraj N, Watt H, Timmermann L, Van der Giessen R, Lees AJ|journal=J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29352722|title=Daily intake of Mucuna pruriens in advanced Parkinson's disease: A 16-week, noninferiority, randomized, crossover, pilot study|published=2018 Apr|authors=Roberto Cilia, Janeth Laguna, Erica Cassani, Emanuele Cereda, Benedetta Raspini, Michela Barichella, Gianni Pezzoli|journal=Parkinsonism Relat Disord|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28679598|title=Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson disease: A double-blind, randomized, controlled, crossover study|published=2017 Aug 1|authors=Roberto Cilia, Janeth Laguna, Erica Cassani, Emanuele Cereda, Nicolò G Pozzi, Ioannis U Isaias, Manuela Contin, Michela Barichella, Gianni Pezzoli|journal=Neurology|]

For reducing the symptoms of Parkinson’s and other conditions related to dopamine deficiency, Mucuna pruriens is thought to work by increasing serum dopamine levels due to its high content of L-DOPA, a natural precursor to dopamine.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32477848|title=An assessment of potential nutritive and medicinal properties of : a natural food legume.|published=2020-Jun|authors=Pathania R, Chawla P, Khan H, Kaushik R, Khan MA|journal=3 Biotech|] The potential beneficial effects of Mucuna pruriens on male fertility and testosterone levels may be due to L-DOPA’s action on the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18973898|title=Mucuna pruriens improves male fertility by its action on the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis|published=2009 Dec|authors=Shukla KK, Mahdi AA, Ahmad MK, Shankhwar SN, Rajender S, Jaiswar SP|journal=Fertil Steril|] The antivenom effects of Mucuna pruriens are likely due to an immune mechanism in which glycoproteins found in the bean are thought to stimulate the production of antibodies that bind to venom proteins, neutralizing the toxic effects of the venom.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24716148|title=The Magic Velvet Bean of Mucuna pruriens.|published=2012-Oct|authors=Lampariello LR, Cortelazzo A, Guerranti R, Sticozzi C, Valacchi G|journal=J Tradit Complement Med|] Additional research is needed to further understand the potential antidiabetic effects of Mucuna pruriens, but existing evidence indicates the involvement of a compound known as D-chiro-inositol, which is present in the seeds of the plant.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16372373|title=Antidiabetic oligocyclitols in seeds of Mucuna pruriens.|published=2005-Dec|authors=Donati D, Lampariello LR, Pagani R, Guerranti R, Cinci G, Marinello E|journal=Phytother Res|]

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