An annual climber often reaches 10m in length. Mucuna pruriens has trifoliolate leaves, broadly ovate leaflets, axillary purple flowers, pendulous racemes, curved pods, black and ovoid seeds, 4-6 in a pod.

The seedpod has a hairy surface that contains mucunine and serotonin causing severe irritations to the skin. That is why the plant has its scientific name, pruriens in Latin means “irritation”. These hairs were used to kill unsuspecting people in Africa by stealing them onto the victim’s food, which died then from internal bleeding as the sharp hairs caused injuries in the stomach and intestinal lining. These hairs make harvesting and handling very difficult until the seed is husked and polished.

The seeds of Mucuna contain a high level of L-dopa (10%) but they are also rich in saponins, alkaloids, carbohydrates, protein, fiber and lipids. It is an ideal plant for muscle builders; the high L-dopa percent keeps blood cholesterol and sugar at optimum level.

The other benefit that Mucuna increases the HGH (Human Growth Hormone) production in the body, leading to the growing of thin muscle fibers, that is why penis enlargement sex pills are usually containing Mucuna extracts.
Mucuna also has diuretic properties too, improves coordination and the elasticity of fibers. The plant extract regulates the testosterone level, which also makes a role in muscle growth.

The seeds are cultivated and consumed in India and Mexico as food but also for its powerful aphrodisiac effects. This purpose is well documented also by Ayurveda and the Unani science. Recent medical researches found the Mucuna seeds extremely effective in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.

The alkaloid extract of the seed has been shown to increase sperm count and motility in men, acting as a prophylactic for ovulation in women. It prevents male and female sterility and acts as a nerve tonic.