mucuna pruriens seed extract

Mucuna pruriens seed extract is a botanical derivative from the velvet bean plant, widely recognized for its high natural content of levodopa (L-DOPA), the metabolic precursor to dopamine. It is primarily used as a natural alternative or adjunct to synthetic L-DOPA for the management of Parkinson's disease, as it effectively crosses the blood-brain barrier to replenish striatal dopamine levels. Beyond its dopaminergic activity, the extract contains a variety of bioactive compounds including alkaloids, phenolics, and flavonoids that contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research indicates it can reduce oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals and inhibiting lipid peroxidation, while also modulating neuroinflammatory signaling pathways such as NF-κB and iNOS. It is also utilized in traditional medicine for treating male infertility and is being explored for its potential anti-diabetic and antidepressant effects.

Brand names

ZandopaHP-200HP200HP 200

Other names

velvet bean extractcowitch extractKapikacchuMucuna pruriens