Mucuna Pruriens

More about Mucuna Pruriens

About the Ayurvedic Mucuna pruriens

Mucuna pruriens is a product of traditional Indian medicine. The purple pods of this tree have numerous uses; introduced centuries ago by Indian sages, validated by science in recent decades.

The Mucuna pruriens, also called velvet bean, contains many healthy nutrients. The most important is the so-called levodopa (L-dopa), the precursor substance of dopamine, of which the Mucuna pruriens is even the richest source in the world!

The role of dopamine in our body

Dopamine is part of the brain's reward system. This neurotransmitter plays an essential role in motor function, mood, sexuality, sleep, thinking, behavior and our motivation. Too low a level of dopamine causes impaired motor skills, stiffness, trembling and slow movement. Symptoms that can be seen, for example, in Parkinson's Disease.

Traditional remedy for Parkinson's disease

Synthetic forms of L-dopa are now an accepted means of managing the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, but one of the problems with using L-dopa is that it loses its effectiveness after a while.

Luckily, some researchers began to re-examine the plant sources for L-dopa a few years ago and discovered the Mucuna beans in Brazil and India. In Ayurvedic medicine, the whole beans are used as a ground powder. The whole bean contains several other constituents in addition to L-dopa. This synergy is one of the benefits of using the whole herb instead of synthetic drugs. Not only can the plants be just as effective, but they are often more balanced, resulting in a gentle healing method without many dangerous side effects.

The richest natural source of L-dopa

The velvet bean contains between 3.1 and 6.7% L-dopa, making it even the richest source of levodopa known. But you have to eat a lot of the legume if you want to experience any effect from the L-dopa. Therefore, these capsules contain an extract in which the active ingredients of the Mucuna pruriens are present in high numbers.

** Provisionally allowed health claims (on hold):

• Natural source of L-dopa, the precursor substance of dopamine
• Increases libido, is good for memory and promotes energy supply
• Contributes to balanced blood sugar levels and the maintenance of cognitive function as we age
• Supports male fertility and increase in muscle mass
• Supports the health of the female reproductive organ and contributes to normal menstruation
• Has antioxidant properties and thus contributes to the immune system

High dosage of 500 mg per capsule

Besides the quality of the extract also the dosage is important. A higher dosage simply ensures more active ingredients and therefore more effect. Most Mucuna pruriens supplements contain between 250 and 400 mg extract per capsule. Research shows that these doses are too low for an adequate effect. Therefore there is no less than 500 mg of this extract in one of these capsules, and it is advised to take a maximum of two capsules per day; a substantiated dosage!

Usage and Dosage

Mucuna pruriens is used primarily for slowing the symptoms of Parkinson's Disease. It is also used for arthritis, pain, anxiety, fever and to improve libido.

Take 1 to 2 capsules daily. Unless otherwise advised. Take during breakfast, or at any other time in the morning, with water. Consult an expert in case of pregnancy or lactation. Do not exceed recommended dosage.

Ingredients

Mucuna pruriens (velvet bean) extract, cellulose (anti-clumping agent), HPMC (capsule).

Contains no: GMO, gluten, yeast, lactose, sugar, artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.

* Reference intake ** No RI determined

Interactions and side effects

The most common side effects are in the digestive system and examples include flatulence or diarrhea. Rare side effects include headache, palpitations, sweating, dry mouth, rash, itching, changes in urine color and symptoms of psychosis.

In addition, Mucuna pruriens may interact (interact) with other medications to cause unwanted side effects. View a list of possible interactions here (this is a Dutch text, please use an online translator for your preferred language). If in doubt, always consult an expert.

Storage

Store in a dry place and at room temperature (15 - 25 degrees Celsius). Keep out of reach and sight of young children.