essarily work better than L-DOPA combined with carbidopa.) Additionally, L-DOPA can create DNA damage via copper ions in the brain. Compounds in Mucuna pruriens appear to prevent this effect through a process of metal chelation. One study comparing mucuna therapy to L-DOPA therapy also found less occurrence of dyskinesia.
The following are other potential medical uses of Mucuna pruriens, as well as more detailed information on Parkinson’s studies:
Mucuna is the #1 Natural source for L-DOPA. L-DOPA is good for Parkinsons, Testosterone and Depression. Get it => https://t.co/YMT5HFfDtj
— MedicinalHerbals (@MedicinalHerbal) February 28, 2017
Currently, there is just one double-blind human study on treating Parkinson’s with Mucuna pruriens. The study used 15-30g of the herb (equalling 500-1000mg of L-DOPA) and compared it to 200mg/50mg of L-DOPA/carbidopa therapy, in treating eight patients. Few differences were observed between the two therapies, except that mucuna appeared to take effect faster. Another study found that mucuna may also increase catecholamines and serotonin in the substantia nigra, the part of the brain that plays a role in Parkinson’s disease. L-DOPA on its own does not have this ability.
Treating Infertile Men and Testosterone Increase
According to one study, 5g of Mucuna pruriens taken daily for three months can increase testosterone levels in otherwise healthy, infertile men. In those with low sperm motility or low sperm count, the increase was even higher. However, it should be noted that these increases only achieved levels within the normal range of testosterone; there is no evidence that mucuna will increase testosterone in men with already normal levels. It is hypothesized that mucuna improves testosterone levels through the effect of L-DOPA increasing dopamine, which then suppresses the hormone prolactin. Prolactin can inhibit libido and testosterone.
In rats, Mucuna pruriens can reduce blood sugar spikes caused by meals. One study tested dosages of 5-100mg/kg of mucuna, and found that it could reduce blood sugar by 19-55%, dose-dependently. Chronic use of mucuna has the most potent effect for this purpose, as using a small dosage over time builds up efficacy. For example, 5mg/kg over 12 weeks eventually has the same potential as a one-time dose of 100mg/kg. However, this effect seems to reach its peak at one month of use, and plateaus thereafter.
As an anti-venom agent
Mucuna pruriens was traditionally used as an anti-venom remedy against snakes such as the saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus). This usage has been proven by science, as the protease inhibitor in mucuna breaks down the snake’s venom.
A study using oral administration Mucuna Pruriens resulted in a significant reduction of psychological stress. These results were administered via a questionnaire and by tracing serum cortisol levels. Mucuna is considered one of the best herbs for mood stabilization.
Antioxidant activities were observed when using the Methanol extract of Mucuna Prurien Seeds. This happens because Mucuna inhibits diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH). The same study concluded that Mucuna Pruriens is an easy to find source of natural antioxidants.
Using a hydroalcoholic extract of Mucuna Pruriens seeds an antidepressent affect was observed in Mice.
Mucuna Pruriens Extract and Dosage Information
Mucuna pruriens extract is most commonly found as a seed powder. The color is typically pale or yellowish. I would go as far as to say I’d only take Mucuna Pruriens as an extract. The label on the package should clearly state the amount of L-DOPA in each dose; this is important because too much can cause unpleasant side effects.
There is no standardized dosage for Mucuna pruriens, but doses of up to 30g (1000mg of L-DOPA) have been used and generally well-tolerated in humans. This likely represents the highest dosage that can be recommended, while a more typical dosage, especially for long-term use, can start at 5g a day. Mature Mucuna pruriens seeds usually contain about 3-6% L-DOPA, while some tested supplements on the market contained