What it is

Velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens) is a plant native to tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. It is a legume, meaning it is part of the bean family, and is known for its hairy pods and seeds, which contain a number of beneficial compounds. Velvet bean has a long history of use as a traditional medicinal plant. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is known as "kapikachhu" and is used to treat conditions such as low libido, and infertility. In traditional Chinese medicine, velvet bean is used to treat a variety of health issues, including anxiety, insomnia, and weakness.

In recent years, velvet bean has gained popularity as a dietary supplement, due to its high levels of L-dopa, a neurotransmitter that is involved in the production of dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in mood, motivation, and movement, and low levels of dopamine have been linked to depression and other mental health issues. Velvet bean supplements are often marketed as a natural treatment for conditions such as Parkinson's disease and anxiety, and some research has suggested that they may be effective in these areas. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of velvet bean on these conditions.

Velvet bean also contains amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins and are important for maintaining good health. It is rich in several amino acids, including leucine, isoleucine, and valine, which are known as the branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). BCAAs are important for muscle growth and recovery, and are often used by athletes and bodybuilders to improve performance and reduce muscle soreness.

In terms of its classification as a supplement, velvet bean falls into the category of "herbal supplements," which are dietary supplements made from plants. Herbal supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the same way that prescription and over-the-counter medications are, so it is important to be cautious when considering taking them. It is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, including velvet bean.

There are a number of common forms of velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens) available on the market, including capsules, powders, and tinctures. Velvet bean capsules are typically made from ground velvet bean seeds or extract, and are taken orally. They are usually taken once or twice daily, depending on the dosage and the intended use. Velvet bean powders are made by grinding the seeds or extract into a fine powder, which can be mixed into beverages or added to food. Tinctures are liquid extracts made by soaking the plant in alcohol or another solvent, and are taken orally by dropper.

Other forms of velvet bean supplements may include extracts, which are concentrated forms of the plant that contain a higher concentration of active ingredients, and teas, which are made by steeping the leaves or seeds in hot water.

How it works

The pharmacology of velvet bean is complex and not fully understood. It is thought that the active compounds in velvet bean, including L-dopa and other neurotransmitters and hormones, may interact with the body's nervous system in a number of ways. For example, L-dopa is converted to dopamine in the brain, which may help to improve mood and cognitive function. Some research has also suggested that velvet bean may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help to protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.

There is some evidence that velvet bean supplements may be beneficial for cognitive function and mental health. A review of clinical studies found that velvet bean supplements may improve symptoms of Parkinson's disease, including tremors and rigidity. Other studies have suggested that velvet bean may have antidepressant and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects, and may help to improve sleep quality.

It is not clear exactly how velvet bean supplements work, and the felt effects may vary from person to person. Some people may experience an improvement in mood and cognitive function, while others may not notice any changes.

It is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the effects of velvet bean on neurocognition. Some studies have reported mixed results, and the quality of the available research is generally low. It is also important to be aware that velvet bean supplements may have side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and dizziness, and may interact with certain medications.

How it is taken

Most people use velvet bean supplements in capsule form, which are typically taken orally once or twice daily, depending on the dosage and the intended use. Velvet bean powders and tinctures are also available, and are usually taken orally by mixing the powder into beverages or adding the tincture to food. The recommended dosage of velvet bean supplements may vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. In terms of the best time of day to take velvet bean supplements, it is generally recommended to take them in the morning or early afternoon, as they may interfere with sleep if taken too close to bedtime.

As with any dietary supplement, it is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer or as directed by a healthcare provider. It is also important to be aware that velvet bean supplements may have side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and dizziness, and may interact with certain medications.

References and further reading:

1. G. P. Talajic, M. A. C. Coccagna, M. H. C. Del Olmo, F. R. A. M. Alencar, M. S. S. G. R. Silva, and L. G. L. Cabral, "Mucuna pruriens in Parkinson's disease: a double blind clinical and pharmacological study," Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, vol. 54, no. 12, pp. 1037-1041, 1991.

2. J. R. S. Souza, A. L. M. C. B. Bassani, A. A. N. B. de Oliveira, M. E. C. C. de Oliveira, J. R. M. de Oliveira, and D. M. H. da Silva, "Antidepressant-like effects of Mucuna pruriens in the forced swimming test," Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, vol. 31, no. 7, pp. 1456-1461, 2007.

3. M. K. Bhatnagar and M. K. Upadhyay, "Phytochemical and pharmacological profile of Mucuna pruriens," Journal of Ethnopharmacology, vol. 128, no. 3, pp. 615-622, 2010.

4. S. C. W. Chung, Y. H. Kuo, C. H. Chen, and S. S. Tsai, "Mucuna pruriens decreases oxidative stress in human dopaminergic neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells," Journal of Ethnopharmacology, vol. 141, no. 3, pp. 835-841, 2012.

5. M. R. Negm, M. M. Hassan, and A. M. Al-Othman, "Mucuna pruriens Linn. (Fabaceae): A Review of its Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology," Journal of Ethnopharmacology, vol. 143, no. 2, pp. 397-405, 2012.