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Velvet Bean (Kaunch / Kapikacchu)
Mucuna pruriens
ବାଇଡଙ୍କ (Baidanka)कौंच (Kaunch) / किवांच (Kiwanch)Kapikacchu
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Origin
- Tropical Africa & Asia
- Plant Type
- Climber
- Habitat
- Outdoor
About the Plant
Annual vigorous climbing vine covered with stinging stinging hairs; trifoliate ovate leaves, drooping racemes of dark purple flowers, and curved pods covered with urticating trichomes.
Traditional Uses
Parkinson's disease, oligospermia, erectile dysfunction, and neuropathy
Parts Used
Purified seeds, roots, hairs of pod
Ayurvedic Properties
- Rasa: Madhura, Tikta
- Guna: Guru, Snigdha
- Virya: Ushna
- Vipaka: Madhura
Health Benefits
- Natural source of L-DOPA, treats Parkinson's disease, boosts libido, and enhances mood
Precautions
Avoid with MAO inhibitors or antipsychotic medications; fine pod hairs cause excruciating skin itching
Interesting Facts
The exterior of the seed pods is covered with stinging trichomes that cause severe histamine itching