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Real members of MyParkinsonsTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Has anyone tried Mucuna Pruriens?

A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭
Minneapolis, MN
August 12
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A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Lowers blood sugar, be warned on that attribute

August 12
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

I tried Mucuna pruriens, but it made me feel sick. My biggest concern was not knowing exactly how much levodopa I was getting because the amount can vary between products. My neurologist recommended that I not continue using it, so I stopped.

Some people may have a different experience, but “natural” does not mean it is free of medication. Mucuna pruriens naturally contains levodopa and can cause side effects or interact with Parkinson’s medications.

That was simply my personal experience. If you are considering trying it, definitely discuss it with your neurologist first. Your neurologist knows your medications, symptoms, and medical history and can help you decide whether it is safe for you.

August 12
MyParkinsonsTeam

Yes! Mucuna pruriens has come up in conversations among people living with Parkinson's. One MyParkinsonsTeam member shared that after starting a half-teaspoon of Mucuna pruriens, they experienced a sudden burst of energy and a noticeable reduction in symptoms.

Mucuna pruriens is a natural plant source of levodopa (the same Show Full Answer

Yes! Mucuna pruriens has come up in conversations among people living with Parkinson's. One MyParkinsonsTeam member shared that after starting a half-teaspoon of Mucuna pruriens, they experienced a sudden burst of energy and a noticeable reduction in symptoms.

Mucuna pruriens is a natural plant source of levodopa (the same active ingredient in many Parkinson's medications), which is why some people find it interesting.

That said, there are some important things to keep in mind:

- Mucuna pruriens has not been thoroughly studied in clinical trials for safety or effectiveness in Parkinson's
- It could interact with existing Parkinson's medications, especially levodopa-based treatments
- It may even worsen symptoms in some cases
- Dosing is hard to control with natural supplements

It's really worth having a conversation with your neurologist or care team before trying it. They can help weigh the potential benefits against any risks specific to your current treatment plan. Better safe than sorry — especially when it comes to something that affects dopamine levels!

August 12

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