ABOUT KAPIKACHHU (Mucuna pruriens)
The scientific name of Mucuna pruriens is derived from the Latin words “mucuna” and “pruriens,” which respectively mean “itch” and “itching.” The itching is primarily caused by the presence of minuscule hairs on its seed pods, which contain a chemical compound known as serotonin.
Mucuna pruriens, often known as cowhage or velvet bean, is a member of the Fabaceae family, popularly known as the pea or legume family. Mucuna pruriens is a tropical legume vine native to the Indian subcontinent and a few African countries. It is thought to have come from eastern India and southern China. It is also known as, lacuna bean, Kapikachhu, Bengal bean, buffalo bean, and itch bean, in addition to velvet bean and cowhage.
The botanical name for Kapikachhu is Mucuna pruriens.
MORE ABOUT KAPIKACHHU (Mucuna pruriens)
Mucuna pruriens is thought to contain qualities that largely balance the Pitta and Vata doshas. It is believed to assist in Vata balance by encouraging relaxation, supporting the neurological system, and enhancing mood. It also assists with Pitta balance by promoting liver function, digestion, and the maintenance of a normal body temperature. Because of its dense and heavy qualities, Mucuna pruriens can enhance Kapha. Additionally, consulting with a healthcare professional or Ayurvedic practitioner would be beneficial to determine the most suitable approach for those with an abundance of Kapha.
- Traditionally, Mucuna Pruriens is used to treat various diseases like neurological, urinary tract, constipation, menstrual diseases, fever, edoema, ulcers, Parkinson’s disease, tuberculosis, and helminthiases such as elephantiasis.
- Powdered seeds stimulate rat sexual activity.
- Roots are bitter, diuretic, anthelmintic, and aphrodisiac, and can also help with constipation, dysmenorrhea, nephropathy, amenorrhea, dropsy, ulcers, elephantiasis, neuropathy, helminthiasis, delirium, fever.
- Leaves of Mucuna pruriens are commonly used as potherbs and as a fodder crop.
- They have medicinal uses for conditions such as inflammation, ulcers, headache (cephalalgia), and general weakness.
- Plant extracts are employed as snakebite toxin antagonists.
- Seeds have laxative, alexipharmic, astringent, aphrodisiac anthelmintic, and tonic effects, as well as antidepressant properties, and are used in Parkinson’s disease formulations.
Mucuna pruriens’ active ingredients include:
L-DOPA (levodopa)
levodopa is a precursor to dopamine and is well known for its role in Parkinson’s disease treatment.
Serotonin
It is a neurotransmitter that regulates sleep, appetite, and mood.
Tryptamines
These are chemicals with psychedelic properties that are present in trace concentrations in Mucuna pruriens.
Nicotinic acid
Nicotinic acid or Niacin, which is also known as vitamin B3, is necessary for the healthy operation of the nervous system and the metabolism of energy.
Flavonoids
Plant substances known as flavonoids have antioxidant properties that aid in preventing cell damage brought on by free radicals.
Support Energy and Stamina
Mucuna pruriens, sometimes known as velvet bean, promotes energy and stamina. It contains L-dopa, a dopamine precursor that boosts motivation and lowers fatigue. The herb also improves cognitive function by increasing mental alertness and focus. Mucuna pruriens contains neuroprotective and antioxidant compounds that help increase energy levels.
Support Sexual Health
Mucuna pruriens contains L-dopa, which raises dopamine levels associated with sexual stimulation and desire. Mucuna pruriens may increase desire and sexual performance. The herb also includes antioxidants, which help to defend against oxidative stress and hence improve sexual performance. It is best to get individualized guidance from a medical expert.
Support Immunity
Mucuna pruriens, often known as velvet bean, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, adaptogenic benefits, nutritional value, and possibly immunomodulatory activities. Before including it in your immune support regimen, you should consult a medical expert.
Supports Digestive Health
Mucuna pruriens, or velvet bean, may support digestive health by providing dietary fiber, promoting gut motility, reducing inflammation, offering antioxidant activity, and potentially alleviating stress-related digestive issues.
Promotes Mental Clarity
Mucuna pruriens boost mental clarity via a variety of processes. It contains L-DOPA, a dopamine precursor that improves focus and cognitive performance. The antioxidants in the plant protect brain cells from oxidative damage, promoting cognitive function. Its neuroprotective properties assist in maintaining brain function. Furthermore, Mucuna pruriens may lower stress and boost mood, resulting in a more clear state of mind.
Anti-inflammatory activity
The bioactive chemicals in Mucuna pruriens and their anti-inflammatory properties have been the subject of numerous investigations. Numerous active components of the plant, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and other phytochemicals, may help explain its potential anti-inflammatory properties. It has been found that it inhibits pro-inflammatory chemicals, such as prostaglandins and cytokines, which play a crucial role in the inflammatory response. The antioxidant properties of mucuna pruriens may also help to lessen oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
An anti-inflammatory effect We selected the MW (M. pruriens extracted with hot water) and ME (M. pruriens extracted with 70% ethanol) extracts for additional Western blot analysis. The results of the study showed that MW and ME drastically reduced the expression of the COX-2 (cyclooxygenase-2) and iNOS (inducible nitric oxide synthase) proteins. At a concentration of 100 μg/mL, MW showed a decrease of 62.56% in iNOS expression and 31.51% in COX-2 expression, while ME exhibited a decrease of 78.73% in iNOS expression and 75.05% in COX-2 expression. These findings suggest that M. pruriens extracts can effectively reduce inflammation by suppressing the expression of COX-2 and iNOS proteins.
Support Sexual Health
The research revealed that Mucuna pruriens’ ethanolic seed extract had powerful sexual enhancement effects. In addition, it has androgenic, anti-diabetic, and spermatogenic properties in diabetic rats. These results confirm the historical use of Mucuna pruriens as a sexual stimulant in the Indian medical system, especially for those with diabetes.
- Before using, seek advice from a medical practitioner, especially if you have health issues or are taking medication.
- If you are aware of any allergies or reactions to Mucuna pruriens, proceed with caution.
- People with dopamine-related disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, should use Mucuna pruriens cautiously and consult professional healthcare.
- Due to the lack of safety data, avoiding using Mucuna pruriens while pregnant or nursing is best.
- Mucuna pruriens may cause adverse reactions or interact with certain drugs. Any issues can be discussed with a medical expert.
Herbal Supplements
Supplements with herbs Mucuna pruriens is sold as a herbal supplement as powders or capsules. Consult a healthcare professional for advice or adhere to the manufacturer’s dosing guidelines.
Tinctures
Tinctures of Mucuna pruriens are strong liquid extracts. They can be added to liquids like juice or tea or combined with water. Observe the dose recommendations listed on the product label.
Powdered Form
Mucuna pruriens powder can be included in drinks, dishes, and smoothies. Begin with a tiny dosage and gradually increase it by the suggested parameters.
Herbal Preparations
To extract the herb’s advantageous chemicals, these methods either boil the herb or let it steep in water. The preparation of Mucuna pruriens decoctions may not be commonly known, so care is required.
