Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens) has a long history of traditional use as an aphrodisiac in Ayurvedic medicine, but its effects on sex drive (libido) have also been explored in modern scientific studies. The key active compound in velvet bean is L-DOPA, a precursor to dopamine—a neurotransmitter involved in the regulation of mood, motivation, and sexual desire. A number of animal studies and a few human trials have investigated the effects of velvet bean on sexual function. Research in men with infertility has shown that supplementation with Mucuna pruriens can improve semen quality and increase testosterone levels, which is often associated with increased libido. For example, a double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in 2008 found that infertile men taking velvet bean seed powder for three months experienced improved sperm parameters and elevated testosterone compared to placebo. Additionally, preclinical studies in rats have demonstrated enhanced sexual activity, increased mounting frequency, and improved copulatory behavior after administration of velvet bean extracts. The proposed mechanisms include increased dopamine and testosterone, both of which are linked to libido. However, while the evidence is promising, it is still limited in scope and quality, with more robust, large-scale human trials needed to confirm these effects in the general population. Thus, the evidence rating is moderate (3 out of 5), indicating some scientific support but not definitive proof.

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