 In the traditional medicine of Asia, Africa and the Americas, Mucuna
pruriens is used as a tonic, stimulant, and aphrodisiac, and is prepared in
a vast array of concoctions including strong infusions, poultices, powders,
and confections. The beans themselves, when young, are cooked and eaten as
a vegetable.
The aphrodisiac properties of Mucuna are well documented in current
research, including its ability to increase sperm count and motility,
testicular size, and testosterone levels. It has also been shown to
increase HGH ((Human Growth Hormone) levels, which increases the body's
ability to build lean muscle and break down fat, making it useful in sports
medicine and weight-loss programs.
Because of its high content of the chemical L-Dopa (made famous in the
Robin Williams' movie Awakenings, Macuna is currently receiving
favorable reviews in studies where it is used to treat Parkinson's disease.
L-Dopa stimulates the brain's production of dopamine, which improves mood,
sexuality, and coordination, and causes the release of HGH from the
pituitary gland.
According to Plants of the Gods (Hofmann and Shultes), Mucuna also
contains assorted tryptamine alkaloids, which accounts for its psychedelic
effects and its usefulness for assorted extractions. The alkaloids
identified include nicotine, serotonin, 5-Hydroxytryptamine, and Bufotenin, among others.
Related Links
|
