Kapikacchu (Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC.) - A Comprehensive Review
Journal Title: International Journal of Ayurveda and Pharmaceutical Chemistry - Year 2016, Vol 0, Issue 0
Abstract
Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. belongs to the family Fabaceae is commonly known as Kapikacchu, Atmagupta, Kacchura, Markati etc. in Sanskrit; Velvet bean, Cowitch, Cowhage in English and Kawaanch, Kavach in Hindi. Its synonyms, morphology, properties, actions and medicinal uses are described in Ayurvediya Samhitas as well as Nighantus. It is an established herbal drug used for the management of male infertility, nervous disorders, and also as an aphrodisiac. It possesses many pharmacological activities like antidiabetic, aphrodisiac, anti-oxidant, antimicrobial, hypoglycemic, anti pakinsonism and antivenom activity. M. pruriens seed is a natural source of the amino acid L-3,4-dihydroxy phenyl alanine (LDOPA), the direct precursor to the neuro transmitter dopamine which is used widely in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Other major constituents isolated are four new alkaloids viz., mucuadine, mucuadinine, mucuadininine and prurienidine along with mucunin, mucuadine, small amount of nicotine, various amino acids, carbohydrate, acids, indole alkyl amines and serotonin. According to Ancient Ayurvedic literature Kapikacchu is used as a potent aphrodisiac, geriatric tonic and vermifuge. It is also used for the treatment of menstruation disorders, constipation, oedema, fever, tuberculosis, etc. In addition, Mucuna is also grown as food crop, ornamental plant, living mulch and green manure crop. The reviews summarize the literature review, botanical description, medicinal uses, phyto constituents, cultivation and propagation and pharmacological activities of M. pruriens.
Authors and Affiliations
Sharma Tarun, Ramamurthy A, Nathani Sumit, Anand Parul
Keywords
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