Mucuna Pruriens Extract (15% L-DOPA)
Also known as: velvet bean, Mucuna pruriens seed extract, L-DOPA (natural), kapikacchu, cowhage
A seed extract of velvet bean standardized to L-DOPA, the direct precursor of dopamine, used in mood, motivation, and men's vitality formulas. Human research has focused on whole seed powder at 15 to 30 g in Parkinson's disease, where it produced a faster and longer effect than a standard levodopa preparation; controlled trials of low-dose 15% extracts in healthy adults are lacking. Because L-DOPA is pharmacologically active, this is a high-scrutiny ingredient that needs conservative dosing and interaction warnings.
Research summary
L-DOPA crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted to dopamine, increasing dopaminergic signaling; other seed constituents may modestly slow its breakdown.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of extract.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| — | 250–500 mg | — | — |
250 to 500 mg per day of a 15% L-DOPA extract, delivering roughly 40 to 75 mg L-DOPA, taken on an empty stomach in the morning, as commonly labeled on commercial products; no controlled trials establish this extract dose. Nausea is the most common complaint. Cycle use rather than dosing continuously.
Standardization: 15% L-DOPA
Source material: seed extract
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Bitter, beany; capsules preferred. L-DOPA oxidizes, so protect from moisture and light.
Formulation notes
Interacts with levodopa, MAO inhibitors, antipsychotics, and other dopaminergic drugs. Often paired with L-tyrosine or ashwagandha; avoid stacking with other dopamine-active ingredients.
- Notable drug interactions
- Not for pregnancy
Sources
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