Overview

Velvet bean (Mucuna) is a natural source of levodopa. However, it is toxic to persons who have a rare genetic disorder called G6PD-deficiency.

Authority

Family: Fabaceae
Standard Botanical Name: Mucuna pruriens
Standard Common Name: Velvet Bean
Author: (L.) DC.
References: [HoC2000, pg 99]

Other Common Names

  • Buffalo Bean [Herbs of Commerce]
  • Cowage [Herbs of Commerce]
  • Cowitch [Herbs of Commerce]

Ayurvedic Names

  • atmagupta [Herbs of Commerce]
  • kapikacchu [Herbs of Commerce]