Mucuna has a rich history of use across cultures. In Ayurveda, it has traditionally been used as an aphrodisiac, a remedy for neurodegenerative diseases and poisons, such as snakebites and scorpions. In Amazonia it was administered to relieve trembling hands, treat infertility and digestive problems. In Central America and Mexico it served as an alternative to coffee, known as "Nescafé Inca". In Indonesia, the fruit is used to make tempeh, called "tempe benguk". It is evident that the vast majority of the indigenous cultures of our planet have used Mucuna either as a medicinal remedy or as a food.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, it symbolizes yang energy - masculine strength, potency and focus, but it also contains yin properties, i.e. nourishing and regenerating energy.
Nowadays, it is becoming popular in the West thanks to its content of L-dopa, a precursor of dopamine, which is considered an effective treatment for Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Chemical composition
Mucuna is rich in bioactive substances:
- L-dopa - a precursor to dopamine that promotes motivation, concentration, learning and physical performance. It is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, ADHD and other neurodegenerative diseases.
- Serotonin and its precursor 5-hydroxy-tryptamine(5-HTP) - promoting good mood and proper sleep biorhythm.
- Tryptamine alkaloids - contains trace amounts of substances such as N,N-DMT, bufotenin and 5-MeO-DMT, which may support pineal gland function.
- Minerals and protein - beans contain up to 27% protein and a range of minerals, including magnesium and selenium.
- Other substances - saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids and nicotinic acid, which promote overall vitality.
Psychospiritual action of Mucuna
Mucuna contains trace amounts of known tryptamine psychedelic substances such as N,N-DMT, 5-Meo-DMT and bufotenin, which are found e.g. in Ayahuasca or the frog Bufo Alvarius. Although the percentage of these substances in the plant is minimal and does not reach the levels needed to induce a psychedelic experience, Mucuna can be said to influence and expand consciousness in some way. Indigenous cultures therefore considered the plant to be a "plant teacher" used in various spiritual traditions and rituals.
Currently, Mucuna has been described as a "pineal gland boosting plant" or a plant that activates the higher functions of the pineal gland, a gland located in the middle of our brain, often associated with spiritual experiences. This phenomenon is probably due to the fact that all of the mentioned tryptamine psychedelics, including serotonin and its precursor 5-HTP, are present in the Mucuna and at the same time these substances are synthesized by the human body in the pineal gland. One could then say that taking in these substances from the outside through the consumption of the Mucuna could somehow connect this center where these substances are originally produced...and activate it. Higher pineal function may lead to more vivid dreams, greater creativity and a deeper connection to the self. Such experiences are reported by regular users of Mucuna, as well as general mood improvement, stress reduction, better quality sleep, and increased clarity of mind.
PREPARATION AND DOSAGE
The recommended daily dose is 1 teaspoon (about 3 g) of bean powder. Can be added to smoothies, cacao or other drinks.
People with glaucoma, cardiac arrhythmias, stomach ulcers or psychoses should avoid taking Mucuna.
Combination with MAOI inhibitors is also inappropriate.
For a more detailed description of the plant and more information about its effects, history and uses, visit our Herbarium.
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