Mucuna Pruriens
Mucuna pruriens is a tropical legume naturally rich in L-DOPA (3.1-6.1% of dry weight), the direct precursor to dopamine. A-grade evidence supports benefit for Parkinson's disease symptoms - may be 2-3x more potent than equivalent L-DOPA dose alone due to synergistic compounds. Also studied for male fertility (increased sperm parameters) and testosterone. CRITICAL: Do NOT combine with L-DOPA medications or MAOIs. High doses can cause serious dopamine-related side effects.
Quick Answer
What it is
Mucuna pruriens is a tropical legume naturally rich in L-DOPA (3.1-6.1% of dry weight), the direct precursor to dopamine. A-grade evidence supports benefit for Parkinson's disease symptoms - may be 2-3x more potent than equivalent L-DOPA dose alone due to synergistic compounds.
Key findings
- Grade A: Parkinson's Disease Symptoms (Parkinson's Disease)
Safety
No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.
ℹ️ Quick Facts: Mucuna Pruriens
Quick Facts: Mucuna Pruriens
- Best Evidence:Grade A
- Conditions Studied:1
- Research Outcomes:1
- Grade A Findings:1
- Key Effect:Parkinson's Disease
Detailed Outcomes
Evidence by Condition
Best grade per condition (each condition may have multiple outcomes)
Research Citations (3)
Related Supplements
Yohimbine
1 shared condition · 25 outcomes
Yohimbine is an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist from the Pausinystalia yohimbe tree bark. C-grade evidence for fat loss and erectile dysfunction. SIGNIFICANT SAFETY CONCERNS: Causes anxiety, elevated heart rate, and blood pressure increases - contraindicated in cardiovascular conditions, anxiety disorders, and panic disorder. Supplement quality is notoriously poor - actual yohimbine content varies widely from label claims. Effective for fat loss during fasted cardio but side effects limit use.
Vitamin D
1 shared condition · 308 outcomes
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that our skin synthesizes when exposed to the sun. It benefits us in many ways, from bone health to mood.
S-adenosylmethionine
1 shared condition · 30 outcomes
S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) is a metabolite in the body that helps maintain several important biological reactions. Low levels of SAMe in the body are associated with several conditions, including liver conditions, chronic kidney disease (CKD), coronary artery disease (CAD), depression, and neurodegenerative conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Supplementation with SAMe might improve liver health and depression, but further high-quality clinical trials are needed to confirm those benefits.
L-Tyrosine
1 shared condition · 182 outcomes
L-Tyrosine is an amino acid that is used as a precursor for the synthesis of the catecholamines dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine (NE). DA and NE are depleted under stressful conditions, which can compromise cognitive function. L-Tyrosine supplementation may help alleviate acute stress-induced cognitive decline by restoring catecholamine levels in the brain.
D-Serine
1 shared condition · 25 outcomes
D-Serine is an amino acid that plays a role in cognitive enhancement and schizophrenia treatment.
Creatine
1 shared condition · 433 outcomes
Creatine is among the most well-studied and effective supplements for improving exercise performance. It does this mainly by increasing energy availability during high-intensity activity. Creatine may also provide cognitive and mental health benefits in some contexts.
Coenzyme Q10
1 shared condition · 268 outcomes
Coenzyme Q10 is a molecule found in mitochondria that has a critical role in producing energy for the body. It also plays an important role in the endogenous antioxidant system.
Cannabis
1 shared condition · 194 outcomes
Cannabis is the common name and genus for a few plants used around the world due to their psychoactive properties. Its major component, known as THC, possesses acute benefits but is subject to rapid tolerance. Additionally, nonpsychoactive components like CBD may have chronic benefits. While therapeutic, particularly for pain relief, the plant is not a panacea.