Mucuna pruriens, known as kapikacchu in Ayurveda, is a natural source of levodopa (L-dopa), an essential precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine. It is traditionally used to nourish the nervous system and support the healthy function of the reproductive system. Mucuna powder is the most traditional and versatile way to use this herb.*
- Natural source of levodopa (L-dopa)*
- Nourishes the entire body and calms the nerves*
- Traditionally considered an aphrodisiac*
- Promotes fertility and a healthy libido*
- Balances vata in the nervous system*
Honey is considered a natural aphrodisiac because it stimulates the production of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone, enhancing libido and sex drive. Honey's antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties also improve blood flow and circulation, promoting sexual performance and pleasure.
The Benefits of Mucuna
Mucuna pruriens, also known by its Sanskrit name kapikacchu, is a nutritive tonic and adaptogen commonly used to nourish the nervous system, support healthy sexual energy, and strengthen and tone the reproductive organs.
This beautiful plant with its velvety seed pods is also a natural source of levodopa (L-dopa), which is an essential precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine. Thanks to this attribute, it’s revered for its ability to uplift one’s mood and enhance a sense of emotional well-being.
Mucuna Pruriens Benefits and Uses
Mucuna pruriens has its own special kind of magic that is delivered to the body with each velvet bean. Ayurveda recognizes mucuna as a source of nourishment and rejuvenation for the tissues, bestowing a foundation of balanced energy and well-being.
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Promotes a healthy nervous system. As a rejuvenating herb, mucuna has a profoundly nourishing and rejuvenating effect. It can minimize the effects of stress while supporting a calm and stable nervous system.
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Supports the brain and intellect. As an extension of the nervous system, the brain and intellect are also strengthened and rejuvenated by mucuna’s nourishing qualities. The heavy, oily qualities of the seeds lend strength to any weakened areas of the body. In fact, the seeds of Mucuna pruriens are considered a tonic specific to healthy neurons.
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Supports motor skills and coordination. Mucuna’s work in the nervous system directly affects the muscles as well, encouraging fluid muscular movements, proper sensation, coordination, and keen motor skills.
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Revitalizes the reproductive system. Mucuna is a reproductive tonic that offers support to everyone, including but not limited to those who identify as male and female. It supports fertility, healthy sperm and ova, proper functioning of the reproductive organs, and healthy genital secretions.As an aphrodisiac, mucuna bolsters healthy sexual energy and libido.
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Supports healthy digestion and elimination. Because it promotes smooth muscle contractions, mucuna can help foster healthy digestive function and promote proper elimination.
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Provides significant nutritional content. Mucuna helps to support and maintain balanced blood sugar levels that are already in the healthy range.The seeds themselves are considered to be high in dietary nutrition, with nutritive values similar to other commonly consumed legumes.The green pods and whole beans are traditionally boiled and eaten in the Himalayas.
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Natural source of levodopa (L-dopa). Mucuna’s naturally occurring levodopa is an essential precursor of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which contributes to brain and nervous system health.Dopamine plays an important role in behavior, cognition, voluntary movement, sleep, mood, working memory, and learning.
Modern Research on Mucuna
Mucuna has undergone several clinical trials over the years that have especially focused on its effects on fertility, nerve rejuvenation, and even sleep quality. Below are a few studies that have researched this herb’s effects:
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An Ancient Plant with a Modern Treatment. Bastyr University. 2021.
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Efficacy of Aphrodisiac Plants towards Improvement in Semen Quality and Motility. PubMed Abstract. 2012
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Mucuna Pruriens Improves Male Fertility by Its Action on the Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis. PubMed Abstract. 2009.
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A Dietary Supplement Containing Chlorophytum Borivilianum and Velvet Bean Improves Sleep Quality in Men and Women. Libertas Academica. 2012.
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Neuroprotective effects of...Mucuna pruriens. PubMed Abstract. 2004.
How to Take Mucuna
Powdered mucuna (labeled as kapikacchu powder at Banyan) is the most traditional method. We recommend taking the powder with warm water, milk, ghee, honey, or another anupan. These carrier substances act as a medium for delivering the herb to its intended destination and can enhance its nourishing qualities.