Amino Acid
Mucuna pruriens Extract (Seed) - 15% L-DOPA
Also known as: Velvet Bean, L-DOPA, Levodopa, Mucuna pruriens seed
A legume extract standardized to contain 15% L-DOPA, a direct precursor to dopamine. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for mood, motivation, and motor function support.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Common questions
How much Mucuna pruriens Extract (Seed) - 15% L-DOPA should I take?
The typical range is 500-1500 mg daily (providing ~75-225 mg L-DOPA). Effects typically noticed within 2-4 weeks; tolerance may develop with long-term daily use
When should I take Mucuna pruriens Extract (Seed) - 15% L-DOPA?
Morning to early afternoon (avoid evening due to stimulating effects). Take with light food to minimize nausea; avoid large meals which can interfere with absorption.
Which form of Mucuna pruriens Extract (Seed) - 15% L-DOPA is best?
Extract. Other forms in the catalog: Capsule.
Is Mucuna pruriens Extract (Seed) - 15% L-DOPA safe?
Commonly reported: Nausea, Dizziness, Headache, Vivid dreams or sleep disturbances.
Which Mucuna pruriens Extract (Seed) - 15% L-DOPA supplement scores highest?
Nutricost Testosterone Complex Capsules, at 84/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Dopamine support
- Mood and motivation
- Motor function
- Sexual function
- Athletic performance
How it works
- Direct precursor to dopamine neurotransmitter
- Crosses blood-brain barrier
- Supports motivation and reward pathways
Dosage
- Typical range
- 500-1500 mg daily (providing ~75-225 mg L-DOPA)
- Timing
- Morning to early afternoon (avoid evening due to stimulating effects)
- With food
- Take with light food to minimize nausea; avoid large meals which can interfere with absorption
- Duration
- Effects typically noticed within 2-4 weeks; tolerance may develop with long-term daily use
- Special populations
- Caution in individuals with cardiovascular disease; may interact with psychiatric medications
Forms
- Extract· 70/100
- Capsule· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Vivid dreams or sleep disturbances
Contraindications
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Recent heart attack or unstable angina
- Melanoma or suspicious skin lesions
- Concurrent MAOIs or carbidopa/levodopa therapy
Products containing Mucuna pruriens Extract (Seed) - 15% L-DOPA
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Mucuna pruriens Extract (Seed) - 15% L-DOPA on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Good evidence for L-DOPA in Parkinson's disease; emerging evidence for mood and motivation in healthy individuals. 15% standardization is meaningful; however, bioavailability can vary.
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.