Medicinal Plants : Mucuna pruriens

Name

Cowitch

Biological Name

Mucuna pruriens, Mucuna prutita, Carpopogon pruiens, Dolichos pruiens

Other Names

Cowitch, Cowhage plant, kavach, Kapikachhu, Atmagupta
Naikaranam, Kawanch, Kewach

Parts Used

Seeds, root, legumes

Remedies For

Action

Herb - anthelmintic, aphrodisiac, astringent, nervine, tonic, rejuvenative.

Seeds - antihelmintic, astringent, nervine tonic, and an aphrodisiac

Root - nervine tonic, diuretic

Hairs on the pods - irritant, powerful vermifuge

Uses

Infusion of the pods is a good remedy for dropsy.

The seeds are used in leucorrhoea, menorrhagia, spermatorrhoea, Parkinson's and as an aphrodisiac. They are one of the best tonics and used as powder to improve vitality.

Root is used as a remedy in facial paralysis and nervous disorders. Decoction of the roots purifies the blood, cures rheumatism, asthma, cough, stone in the bladder and improves vitality. it is also used for fevers, edema, and elephantiasis.

Leaf paste is applied to ulcers.

This herb is being investigated as a possible remedy for AIDS.

Description

This herb is an annual climbing shrub found in the tropics of India. Golden brown, velvety legumes are produced by the plant. These are eaten as a vegetable. The hairs on the pods produce intense irritation of the skin.

Dosage

Decoction, powder, confections.

Safety

Do not use when congested.

No information about the safety of this herb is available.

Use caution. Ayurvedic herbs are often taken in combination to neutralize the toxicity one herb with the opposing effect of other. Do not take except under the supervision of a qualified professional.