Mucuna pruriens (velvet bean)

Information

Mucuna pruriens is a plant of the family Fabaceae, containing the neurotransmitter L-DOPA, precursor of dopamine, affecting the improvement of well-being and increased activity, resulting in increased exercise capacity and sexual function. Raises testosterone levels and lowers the level of prolactin. It is used to treat Parkinson's disease. In the sports supplementation, extracts from mucuna are used as part of the enhancement of strain and recovery after strenuous workout, as well as to improve mood during fatigue (or overtraining), in particular during the period of preparation for the competition. Extracts of mucuna are often used in conjunction with extracts of adaptogens (Tribulus terrestris, Siberian ginseng, maca) and group B vitamins and minerals (zinc, magnesium).

L-DOPA

Information

L-DOPA - an amino acid, commonly called Levodopa, enantiomer of L-dihydroxyphenylalanine, belonging to the group of catecholamines. It is present in the human organism on the pathway of adrenaline biosynthesis. It is produced from tyrosine and is a precursor for subsequent reactions of compounds produced in this chain - dopamine, noradrenaline and adrenaline.

Thanks to the ability to cross blood-brain barrier, it is an incredibly effective supplement as for the promotion of cognitive functions and emotional states. It is conducive to the synthesis of dopamine and therefore it promotes its concentration and effectiveness in the organism. In this way, it positively influences the level of motivation and well-being. Due to the presence of dopamine in the extrapyramidal system, where it is responsible for neuromotor coordination, it is used in the therapy of Parkinson’s disease (the etiology of which consists in disturbing the synthesis of this neurotransmitter).

More globally, supplementation with levodopa may be conducive to the synthesis of subsequent catecholamines on the pathway of their biosynthesis, i.e. noradrenaline and final adrenaline. Therefore, it may demonstrate a stimulating effect.

Supplementation with L-DOPA also positively influences the secretion of testosterone and the human growth hormone. Due to its wide effectiveness in the organism, it may be also effectively used in order to promote sexual functions in men.