Herb · Asia
Velvet bean
Mucuna pruriens
Traditionally attributed effects: seeds astringent, expel worms, strengthen the nerves, aphrodisiac; root tonic, stimulating, diuretic, laxative; for nervous diseases (paralysis), kidney diseases, oedema, elephantiasis, leucorrhoea, heavy menstruation, seminal loss.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
Seed powder 1.5–2.5 g; hairs 0.6–1.25 g; root ointment externally.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Kapikachchha. The pods are covered in hairs that itch intensely. The seeds contain a lot of L-dopa and were already used in Ayurveda (kapikachchu) for kampavata, a disease resembling Parkinson's; they are now being studied for it. In Africa and Central America they are roasted as a coffee substitute.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Ayurvedic materia medica
Attributed effects
Seeds astringent, expel worms, strengthen the nerves, aphrodisiac; root tonic, stimulating, diuretic, laxative; for nervous diseases (paralysis), kidney diseases, oedema, elephantiasis, leucorrhoea, heavy menstruation, seminal loss; hairs against worms.
Preparation and amount
Seed powder 1.5–2.5 g; hairs 0.6–1.25 g; root ointment externally.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Salve and balmPowder and kitchen