KAPIKACCHU : Cowhage, Mucuna pruriens - Fabaceae
The surface of the seed pods are 'velvety' like a monkey's skin.
It is also an allergenic which causes an itch, hence the name " one who scratches like a monkey ".
This broad bean sized seed is a superb restorative to the reproductive system. Like many seeds it has the ability to potentiate the reproductive tissue as well as the nervous system. It is also used to treat tremors and spasms. Atmagupta means ?secret self? referring to its therapeutic seed concealed within the irritating bean pod.
Energetics :
- Rasa (taste) : Sweet, Bitter
- Virya (action) : Cool
- Vipaka (post-digestive effect) : Sweet
- Guna (quality) : Heavy, Unctuous
Doshas : VP-, K+
Dhatus (tissues) : All tissues especially Nerve, Reproductive
Srotas (syst?mes) : Nervous, Reproductive, Digestive
Action :
Aphrodisiac, digestive, antispasmodic, carminatif, Enhances the intellect, Promotes energy, improves sexual vitality, pacifies aggravations of Vata.
Indications :
REPRODUCTIVE: Tonic to whole system. Low libido, infertility, impotence, spermatorrhea, premature ejaculation.
It is considered to be one of the ultimate Ayurvedic reproductive tonics for both men and women. Use an infusion.
NERVE: Specific for Parkinson's disease, paralysis, spasms, twitching, cramps.
GIT: Intestinal spasms, pain, gas.
As L-Dopa is broken down in the intestines it is traditionally combined with Tribulus terrestris in Parkinsons as this contains some harmala alkaloids that have MAOI activity.
Can be rajasic or overstimulating in excess.
Often combined with milk and honey to add to its restorative effects.
This wonderful herb is a blessing for people who wants to loose weight and also wants to gain the musculature.
This herb helps in reducing the fats in the body and side by side helps in increasing the muscle mass in the body. This herb is also very helpful in promoting the mood for sexual indulgence thereby increases the libido power and is also beneficial for people who are undergoing depression.
Many scientists are of the opinion that Kapikachu helps in the preservation of our nervous system to the optimized levels.
Contraindications :
- High ama and congestion.
- Acute conditions.
- As kapikachu contains L-dopa, the people on medication of L-Dopa should adjust their medication accordingly by first reducing it.
Combinations :
- Ashwagandha, Safed musali, Shatavari, Gokshura, Frankincense for reproductive issues.
- Brahmi, Gotu kola, Jatamansi, Tagarah and Gokshura for muscular and nervous spasm.
- Fennel, Ginger, Chitrak in digestive problems.
Dosage :
1/2 teaspoon before breakfast and diner mixed with some honey or hot milk.
5 - 10g per day as powder or in decoction
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