SCIENTIFIC NAME: Mucuna pruriens

 

HINDI NAME: Kaunch beej or Kapikachhu beej

 

ENGLISH NAME: Cowhage

 

FAMILY: Fabaceae

SHORT DESCRIPTION

Kaunch beej is a powerful Ayurvedic plant that has been shown to help with reproductive issues, gastrointestinal issues, and neurological illnesses like Parkinson's. Kaunch beej has a sweet flavour that is easy to digest and has a dry texture. It has a heated potency that helps to balance the Kapha dosha while having a strong effect on the pitta and vata doshas. It also fosters the good and balanced mental states of sattva and rajas, which eliminates tamas or negative thinking.

USES & HEALTH BENEFITS

  • Used as an aphrodisiac
  • Healing action in breast cancer
  • Neuro-protective action especially in Parkinson's
  • Anti-arthritic
  • Worm infection 

PRECAUTIONS & SIDE EFFECTS

  • Hairs from the Kaunch beej pod or the seed itself should not be eaten since they might cause mucosal irritation.
  • May cause a rise in acid secretion If you have a peptic ulcer.
  • Use only prescribed by a doctor in case of lactation and pregnancy.
  • Might cause headaches, hallucinations and vomiting if taken in overdosage.
  • Might cause severe itching, burning and rashes on the skin, as it is of hot potency. For external application use with adjuvant like rose water.

HOW TO USE

  • Boil ¼-½ tsp of kaunch seed powder with a glass of warm milk & take it once a day after food, to increase sexual performance.
  • Take ½ tsp of Kaunch beej powder with honey preferably after lunch and dinner in case of diabetes, arthritis and other disorders. Follow the doctor’s prescription for dosage.