A Comprehensive Review of the Therapeutic Potential of Mucuna Pruriens

Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. (Fabaceae), commonly known as velvet bean, is an annual tropical legume widely distributed in India, Africa, and the Americas. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine for managing various health conditions. It is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, aphrodisiac, and anti-Parkinson effects. The entire plant is considered health-promoting, particularly the seeds. They have been used for their neuroprotective, fertility-enhancing, and antioxidant effects. This review aims to compile all available information regarding the chemical composition of all parts of this medicinal plant. For this purpose, the complete databases of Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science available to date were utilized. All studies reported the presence of a diverse range of secondary metabolites, including phenolic compounds, such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, and tannins, as well as saponins and alkaloids. Most studies concentrated on the chemical characterization of the seeds, whereas the leaves, roots, and pods have received comparatively limited scientific attention. The seeds of M. pruriens are renowned for their high concentration of L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA), a metabolic precursor of dopamine. A large proportion of these studies originated from countries where M. pruriens naturally occurs. Few studies have been conducted on the chemical composition of velvet bean outside these regions. Despite the existing information on the chemical composition of M. pruriens. (seeds, leaves, and roots), further research beyond its natural habitat is required to gain a broader understanding of its chemical profile and pharmacological effects.