Cowage seed (Mucuna pruriens), also known as velvet bean, has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. It is primarily recognized for its content of L-DOPA, a precursor to dopamine, and is traditionally used for conditions thought to be associated with nervous system health and reproductive vitality. The pituitary gland, sometimes referred to as the "master gland," regulates hormones that control various physiological processes, including growth, metabolism, and reproductive function.

In traditional Ayurveda, cowage seed is believed to support hormonal balance and rejuvenate the nervous system, which may indirectly suggest an effect on the pituitary body system. However, its use is not specifically targeted at the pituitary gland itself, but rather at broader hormonal and neurological functions. Some animal and small human studies have shown that Mucuna pruriens can influence hormone levels—such as increasing testosterone and luteinizing hormone—which are regulated by pituitary signaling. However, direct evidence for its support of pituitary health or function in humans remains limited.

Overall, the use of cowage seed for pituitary support is grounded primarily in traditional practices rather than robust scientific validation. While there is some preliminary evidence suggesting hormonal modulation, comprehensive clinical trials specifically linking cowage seed to pituitary function are lacking.