Paper Contents
Abstract
Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC., known in Ayurveda as Kapikachhu, is a revered medicinal legume with a history of therapeutic use spanning millennia. This comprehensive review synthesizes traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with contemporary scientific research to provide a holistic understanding of its applications. In Ayurveda, Kapikachhu is primarily celebrated for its profound effects in Vajikarana (aphrodisiac and male reproductive health), management of Kampavata (neuro-motor disorders akin to Parkinson's disease), and as a Rasayana (rejuvenative tonic). Its principal bioactive constituent, levodopa (L-DOPA), a direct precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine, provides a direct pharmacological basis for its efficacy in neurological conditions. However, modern studies increasingly suggest that the therapeutic benefits of the whole herb surpass those of isolated L-DOPA, pointing to a synergistic interplay of its complex phytochemistry, which includes alkaloids, flavonoids, tryptamines, and phenolic compounds. These constituents contribute to its documented antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. This review examines the botanical profile of M. pruriens, its Ayurvedic pharmacodynamics (Rasa Panchaka), and its primary therapeutic roles. Furthermore, it details the critical Ayurvedic pharmaceutical process of Shodhana (purification), which is essential for mitigating toxicity and enhancing efficacy. By bridging ancient wisdom with modern pharmacological validation, this review underscores the significance of Kapikachhu as a potent therapeutic agent and a prime example of the enduring relevance of traditional medicine in contemporary healthcare.
Copyright
Copyright © 2025 Dr. Ashim Aryan. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.
