Potential Benefits of an Ethanopharmacological Herb: A Systematic Analysis on Velvet Bean (Mucuna pruriens L.)

Author: Indla Ravi, Manivannan E., V. Sivasankari and Kothai Ramalingam

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Abstract

The plant Mucuna pruriens, also known as cow-age, cowitch, velvet bean is belongs to the family of the leguminosae and has been used in Indian medicine for centuries. The plant is known for its therapeutic properties and has been used to treat various ailments such as Parkinson's disease, infertility, and sexual dysfunction. It contains high levels of L-DOPA, a precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine, which plays a crucial role in regulating mood, motivation, and movement. L-DOPA, an amino acid that serves as a direct precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is widely used to treat Parkinson's disease, can be found naturally in M. pruriens seed (PD). In addition to L-DOPA, M. pruriens also contains the chemicals serotonin, oxitriptan, nicotine, N,N-DMT, and bufotenine. Mucuna is regarded as a potent aphrodisiac, geriatric tonic, and vermifuge in ancient Ayurveda literature. Additionally, it is used to treat other conditions like tuberculosis, edema, constipation, fever, and irregular menstruation. Mucuna pruriens is also grown as a green manure crop, an ornamental plant, living mulch, and a food crop. This review provides an overview of M. pruriens' botany, applications, phytochemical components, and pharmacological properties.

Keywords

Mucuna pruriens, Photochemistry, Behavioural changes, Ethanopharmacological Benefits, Antidiabetic, Antianxiety, Anti venom, Aphrodisiac, Adverse Drug Reactions

Conclusion

M. pruriens is an intriguing herb with numerous applications in pharmacological preparation; the antioxidants that are present in Mucuna Pruriens have a great role in managing neurobehavioral conditions. In addition to its antifungal and antibacterial, aphrodisiac, antiparkinsonian, hypoglycaemic, and anti-venom properties, M. pruriens has potential applications in pharmacological preparations due to its intriguing properties. Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of the antioxidants present in M. pruriens on managing neurobehavioral conditions and their potential to impact on the Central Nervous System.

References

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How to cite this article

Indla Ravi, Manivannan E., V. Sivasankari and Kothai Ramalingam (2023). Potential Benefits of an Ethanopharmacological Herb: A Systematic Analysis on Velvet Bean (Mucuna pruriens L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 346-349.