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.
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
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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