Mucuna Pruriens Extract
Mucuna Pruriens Extract
Snapshot
Mucuna pruriens Extract is a standardized source of the bioactive compound LโDOPA, used to support neurotransmitter balance, mood, and motor function.
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What is Mucuna pruriens Extract?
Mucuna pruriens, also known as velvet bean, contains high levels of LโDOPA (levodopa), the direct precursor to dopamine, along with other phytochemicals such as serotonin, 5โHTP, and alkaloids.
Where It Comes From
Harvested from the seeds of the tropical legume Mucuna pruriens, seeds are deโhulled, ground, and extractedโtypically in an aqueous or alcohol mediumโthen concentrated and standardized to 15โ20% LโDOPA.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Provides LโDOPA (levodopa), which crosses the bloodโbrain barrier to increase dopamine synthesis, plus plantโderived antioxidants, fiber, and protein.
Health Benefits
Supports healthy dopamine levels for mood regulation, motivation, and cognitive function; may enhance motor control in Parkinsonโsโrelated therapies; aids stress resilience by modulating the HPA axis.
Recommended Dosage
Standardized extracts (15โ20% LโDOPA) are typically dosed at 250โ500โฏmg, 1โ3 times daily (yielding 37โ100โฏmg LโDOPA per dose); adjust according to clinical guidance.
How to Use It
Take capsules or powder with water on an empty stomach or 30 minutes before meals to maximize absorption; avoid combining with highโprotein meals that may compete at transporters.
Who Should Use It?
Individuals seeking mood support, enhanced motivation, or adjunctive support for dopamineโrelated conditions; use under healthcare supervision when on dopaminergic medications.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
May interact with antidepressants, MAO inhibitors, and dopaminergic drugsโrisk of excessive dopamine activity; may cause nausea or headaches at higher doses; consult a healthcare provider before use.
Final Thoughts
Mucuna pruriens Extract offers a natural, plantโderived source of LโDOPA for supporting dopamineโmediated functions, but dosing and interactions require careful management.
Scientific Studies
Shukla R, et al. Comparative evaluation of Mucuna pruriens and levodopa/benserazide in Parkinsonโs disease: a randomized trial. Phytother Res. 2009;23(9):1303โ1307. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.2793
Katzenschlager R, et al. Mucuna pruriens in Parkinsonโs disease: double-blind randomized trial. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2004;75(12):1672โ1677. https://doi.org/10.1136/jnnp.2003.023145
Manyam BV, et al. Neuroprotective effects of Mucuna pruriensโreversal of MPTP toxicity in mice. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2004;78(2):419โ424. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pbb.2004.08.028