Mucuna pruriens is a climbing vine or shrub herb belonging to the genus Mucuna. A popular common name for it is velvet bean, also agbara or karara. Its usual habitats are the tropical woodlands of Africa.
Aphrodisiac properties
Mucuna pruriens belongs to the category of aphrodisiacs that work as libido enhancers. It contains abundant amounts of L-Dopa a precursor for the synthesis of dopamine. Dopamine is required for cell to cell neurotransmission which is very essential to sexual stimulation for both men and women. The most potent part of the plant is the seeds. Dopamine (synthesized from L-Dopa derived from Mucuna pruriens) also enhances blood levels of testosterone (the male sex hormone) which boost male sexual activity. Mucuna pruriens extracts also boosts sperm volume, sperm count a s well as sperm motility, all of which result in greater virility and potency for men. A lean muscle mass is also reported among frequent users. A lean muscle mass is necessary for greater sex; excess body fat makes individuals, especially men perform less effectively.
Contraindications
The herb may have the effect of lowering blood sugar levels and as such should be avoided by persons with diabetes and pregnant women.
It is also not recommended for persons suffering from schizophrenia.