MUCUNA PRURIENS

FAMILY :: FABACEAE (LEGUMINOSAE)
VELVET BEAN: An annual, tropical vine long used medicinally. The leaves and seeds contain assorted tryptamines and are used as an aphrodisiac and nerve tonic in Brazil and Panama. In Nepal, mucuna is used for “disorders of the nervous system.” The seeds are a source of L-Dopamine, used in treating Parkinson’s Disease. The whole plant is used as forage for cattle. Grow in warm, rich, moist soil in full sun. Tender, but easy to grow.