Quick facts
| Botanical name | Mucuna pruriens |
|---|---|
| Other names | Kaunch, velvet bean, Atmagupta |
| Part used | Seed |
| Common forms | Purified seed powder; capsules; part of fertility formulations. |
Ayurvedic properties
Ayurveda describes every herb by its taste (rasa), qualities (guna), potency (virya), post-digestive effect (vipaka) and effect on the doshas.
| Taste (rasa) | Sweet, bitter |
|---|---|
| Qualities (guna) | Heavy, unctuous |
| Potency (virya) | Heating |
| After digestion (vipaka) | Sweet |
| Effect on doshas | Calms Vata |
Traditional uses
- Tremor and stiffness (Kampavata)
- Male fertility and vitality (Vajikarana)
- Strength and nourishment
These are uses described in Ayurvedic practice; they are not all supported by clinical research.
What research shows
Very limited
Limited
Moderate
Strong
Small trials in Parkinson's disease show effects similar to levodopa — which is expected, because it contains levodopa. Small studies suggest improved semen quality. The levodopa content varies widely between products.
Safety
Avoid or ask a doctor first if you have:
- Parkinson's medicines (levodopa/carbidopa) — do not combine without your neurologist
- History of psychosis or melanoma
- Pregnancy
Possible interactions
- Levodopa and other Parkinson's medicines
- MAO-inhibitor antidepressants — dangerous rise in blood pressure
- Antipsychotics
- Diabetes medicines
Side effects
Nausea, dizziness, low blood pressure on standing, involuntary movements (dyskinesia), hallucinations. The raw pods carry hairs that cause intense itching.
Stop and seek medical advice if you develop yellow eyes or skin, dark urine, a rash, or feel unwell after starting any herbal product.
Buying safely
- Buy licensed products whose label shows the manufacturer's name and address, an AYUSH licence number, batch number and expiry date.
- Prefer products that name the botanical species and the part used.
- Be wary of products promising cures, “no side effects”, or rapid results — some have been found to contain hidden steroids or other drugs.
- Tell every doctor and pharmacist about all the herbal products you take.
- Report side effects through the Ministry of Ayush pharmacovigilance programme. See our Ayurvedic medicine safety guide.
Related conditions
Kapikacchu is discussed on these condition pages:
Other herbs
Ashwagandha Turmeric (Haridra) Triphala Tulsi (Holy Basil) Guduchi (Giloy) Brahmi Shatavari Amalaki (Amla) Neem Guggulu Yashtimadhu (Liquorice)
Please note: this page is general education, not medical advice. Take herbal medicines only on the advice of a qualified practitioner who knows your health and your other medicines.