L-DOPA (levodopa, L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine) is an amino acid synthesized in your brain by the amino acid l-tyrosine. L-DOPA is a precursor of several neurotransmitters including dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine.
Mucuna Pruriens contains L-DOPA in high concentrations. And is used as a nootropic because dopamine itself cannot cross the blood-brain barrier.
Dopamine and norepinephrine are essential for memory, cognition, and a positive mood. A lack of either of these neurotransmitters can lead to a lower mood state, loss of memory, brain fog, poor energy, and more. And if left unchecked will eventually result in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s.
L-DOPA helps:
- Brain Health. L-DOPA helps to increase growth hormone levels in the brain. Boosting the production of neurons and glia cells affecting the formation of memories, and overall brain health.
- Neurotransmitters. L-DOPA is a necessary precursor for your brain to make dopamine. And dopamine is then synthesized into the neurotransmitters epinephrine, and norepinephrine. Affecting cognition, learning, memory, movement, motivation and pleasure.
- Neuroprotection. L-DOPA produces neuromelanins which are similar to the melanin pigment in your skin. In your brain they absorb toxic quinones, and chelate heavy metals like mercury and lead.
Table of Contents
Overview
L-DOPA (levodopa, L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine) is an amino acid that’s naturally synthesized in your brain by the amino acid l-tyrosine.
L-DOPA is a necessary precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine. Called a catecholamine, dopamine is then synthesized into the other catecholamines epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline).
Dopamine cannot cross the blood-brain barrier, but L-DOPA can. This is why we supplement with L-DOPA rather than dopamine.
And for a dopamine boost, neurohackers use Mucuna Pruriens, which contains high levels of L-DOPA.[i] This legume, native to the tropical regions of India, Africa and the West Indies, and also known as velvet bean, has been used in Ayurveda medicine since 1500 B.C.
The ancients used Mucuna Pruriens to treat things like snakebite, intestinal problems, sexual issues, and a melancholy mood.
Raising levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in your brain helps regulate mood and cognition.[ii]
Mucuna Pruriens vs. L-DOPA: What’s the Difference?
Mucuna Pruriens is an extract of the velvet bean plant that grows 3 – 18 meters in height. L-DOPA (levodopa) is usually synthetic and made in the lab.
The natural version of L-DOPA from Mucuna Pruriens is generally well-tolerated by most people. And the compounds in the plant are bio-identical to those chemicals naturally made in your body. Not so with synthetic L-DOPA.
Synthetic L-DOPA is metabolized into dopamine in your body by an enzyme called aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC). And the majority of synthetic L-DOPA will be converted peripherally (not in the central nervous system and brain). This can cause problems.
So when used therapeutically, as in treating Parkinson’s Disease, L-DOPA is administered in combination with an inhibitor of peripheral AADC. Drugs like carbidopa (or other AADC inhibitors) ensure most of the L-DOPA is preserved for conversion to dopamine in the brain. And not the rest of your body.
This is critical for nootropic users to keep in mind. Chronic, or prolonged use of synthetic L-DOPA can lead to things like dyskinesia. This is a movement disorder where neurological discoordination results in uncontrollable, involuntary movements.[iii]
I am not telling you this to dissuade you from using L-DOPA. Stick with an extract of Mucuna Pruriens and you should be fine.
How does L-DOPA Work in the Brain?
L-DOPA boosts brain health and function in several ways. But two in particular stand out.
- L-DOPA improves memory. It’s metabolized into dopamine in your body by an enzyme called aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC). This increases dopamine levels in your brain.
Researchers at the University of Münster in Germany conducted a study with 40 healthy people. In this randomized double-blind study, they gave one group 100 mg of levodopa daily for 5 days. The other group took a placebo.
90 minutes later on each day, subjects were given a memory test based on vocabulary. The study found that levodopa significantly enhanced the speed, overall success, and long-term retention of novel words.[iv]
- L-DOPA promotes brain health. Research suggests Mucuna Pruriens protects your brain by regulating cognitive and neural functions. And even encouraging neural activity.
Researchers in India showed that Mucuna Pruriens is a potent antioxidant. They performed assays to evaluate the enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants in extracts. They found high levels of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannic acids, gallic acids, quercetin equivalents, and sitosterol equivalents.[v]
All of these compounds scavenge for free radical in your brain. Free radicals are formed during normal brain activity, like the synthesis of ATP that is produced in your mitochondria.
Your brain is equipped to eliminate some of these free radicals on its own. But especially in today’s environment in which we live, your brain is overwhelmed. Free radicals cause inflammation which damages and can kill brain cells. Affecting memory, learning, recall, cognition and mood.
Mucuna Pruriens has been proven to be a very effective brain inflammation fighter. It even has the ability to chelate heavy metals like mercury and lead in brain cells. And it’s antibacterial.[vi]
Mucuna Pruriens helps your brain make naturally occurring neuronal pigments called neuromelanins. They’re similar to the melanin found in your skin. And they’re often found in regions of your brain where dopamine is active.
The synthesis of neuromelanins in the various regions of your brain is an important protective process. The melanic component is generated through the removal of reactive/toxic quinones that would otherwise cause neurotoxicity.
This melanic component promoted by Mucuna Pruriens is what chelates and accumulates toxic, heavy metals like mercury and lead.[vii] Preventing them from damaging brain cells.
How things go bad
As we get older, our brain chemistry and energy metabolism changes.
↓ Dopaminergic neurons are damaged or die
↓ Dopamine levels decline
↑ Stress levels increase
↓ Long-term memory and mood decline
All of these age-related changes are contributing factors to the neurodegenerative diseases of aging, including Parkinson’s Disease.
L-DOPA benefits
Mucuna Pruriens extract contains high levels of L-DOPA, the precursor to the crucial neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine is further synthesized into the neurotransmitters epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline).
Dopamine plays a critical role in learning and absorbing new information. Increasing brain levels of dopamine helps regulate mood and boosts cognition.
Research also suggests that Mucuna Pruriens provides antioxidants that defend against oxidative damage caused by free radicals.[viii]
How does L-DOPA feel?
Neurohackers report that using Mucuna Pruriens helps in multi-tasking, improving motivation, more focus, less stress, and a sense of calm.
You could find your energy levels increase, less brain fog, and a boost in overall mood. A more positive outlook on life. And an increase in libido.
L-DOPA Clinical Research
Mucuna Pruriens helps reduce stress
A study was conducted to assess the role of Mucuna Pruriens in infertile men. It was done at King George’s Medical University in Lucknow, India. The study included 60 men who were undergoing infertility screening. And no surprise here; were found to be suffering from stress.
The control group in this study were 60 age-matched men who had initiated at least one pregnancy. The infertile men were given 5 grams of Mucuna Pruriens seed powder per day for 3 months. Semen samples were collected at the beginning of the study. And after 3 months of treatment.
The researchers found that treatment with Mucuna Pruriens significantly decreased stress levels. And increased sperm count to the same level as the fertile control group of men.
They “concluded that M. pruriens not only reactivates the anti-oxidant defense system of infertile men but it also helps in the management of stress and improves semen quality.”[ix]
L-DOPA improves learning
This study in Germany was done with 40 healthy subjects. They were given 100 mg of L-DOPA or a placebo for 5 days in a randomized, double-blind trial.
Subjects were trained on artificial vocabulary using a high-frequency, repetitive approach. This was done 90 minutes after L-DOPA administration on each day of the trial.
The researchers found that L-DOPA significantly enhanced the speed, overall success, and long-term retention of the words.[x]
L-DOPA as an anti-depressant
Increasing dopamine in your brain also boosts your mood and libido. This study was done in India with mice. Researchers used the well-known Forced Swimming Test (FST), Tail Suspension Test (TST), and Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress (CUMS) test.
The mice were fed Mucuna Pruriens seed extract, and then evaluated while performing, well… what mice do in the lab. The research team found that Mucuna Pruriens seed extract has significant antidepressant qualities. Which would simply verify what we already know in humans.[xi]
Using Mucuna Pruriens extract is a great anti-depressant.
L-DOPA Recommended Dosage
L-DOPA (Mucuna Pruriens 98% extract) suggested dosage for cognitive benefits is 250 – 500 mg per day.
You may find that you need to cycle the use of L-DOPA (Mucuna Pruriens). And use it only 4 or 5 days a week. This will help avoid tolerances and dependencies (which are common with any dopamine agonist).
L-DOPA Side Effects
L-DOPA is produced naturally in your body. So is considered well-tolerated and safe. And L-DOPA from Mucuna Pruriens extract is particularly well tolerated by most people.
Research shows that the natural form of L-DOPA from Mucuna Pruriens compared to synthetic versions of L-DOPA provides similar results. But without the common side effects of nausea, vomiting, and involuntary muscle movement.[xii]
But be very careful when working with dopamine. Too much and you can experience symptoms like hair loss, auditory or visual hallucinations, psychosis, Dyskinesia and more.
Of course, if you begin to experience any of these side effects, stop supplementing with L-DOPA (Mucuna Pruriens) immediately.
Like any natural supplement, it’s always better to find an organic source.
Type of Mucuna Pruriens (L-DOPA) to buy
Mucuna Pruriens is typically available in powder, capsule or tablet form. Some are pure, dried Mucuna Pruriens powder.
Several manufacturers offer Mucuna Pruriens extracts ranging from 15% – 98% L-DOPA. Or they tell you how many mg of L-DOPA is in each capsule or tablet.
A few manufacturers call it “Velvet Bean Extract” with the percentage of L-DOPA in each capsule or tablet. It’s the same as Mucuna Pruriens.
Try to find “organic” or “certified organic” if you can. And for Nootropic use, avoid synthetic L-DOPA which is typically used to treat Parkinson’s Disease.
Nootropics Expert Recommendation
L-DOPA (Mucuna Pruriens) 250 – 500 mg per day
I recommend using L-DOPA as a nootropic supplement.
Your body does synthesize some L-DOPA on its own. And converts it into the essential neurotransmitters dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine.
But as you get older, dopamine receptors die or become unresponsive. Or your body doesn’t convert the necessary amino acids well enough to supply the neurotransmitters you need for an optimized brain.
L-DOPA is helpful to boost energy and motivation levels, memory, clear brain fog, improve mood and libido.
L-DOPA is especially helpful for those suffering from neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s. And the natural form of L-DOPA from Mucuna Pruriens often offers better results with fewer side effects than prescription drugs.
I suggest starting with a dose of 100 – 250 mg daily for nootropic use at first. And you may find that you need to cycle L-DOPA. Use it for 4 or 5 days and take a break. Tolerance is often a problem when working with dopamine. As is dependence or addiction.
[i] Prakash D., Niranjan A., Tewari S.K. “Some nutritional properties of the seeds of three Mucuna species.” International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition. 2001 Jan;52(1):79-82. (source)
[ii] Amsten A., Wang M., Paspalas C. “Neuromodulation of Thought: Flexibilities and Vulnerabilities in Prefrontal Cortical Network Synapses”Neuron Volume 76, Issue 1, p223–239, 4 October 2012 (source)
[iii] Jenner P. “Molecular mechanisms of L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia.”Nature Reviews Neuroscience. 2008 Sep;9(9):665-77 (source)
[iv] Knecht S., Breitenstein C., Bushuven S., Wailke S., Kamping S., Flöel A., Zwitserlood P., Ringelstein E.B. “Levodopa: faster and better word learning in normal humans.” Annals of Neurology. 2004 Jul;56(1):20-6. (source)
[v] Uma S., Gurumoorthi P. “Dietary antioxidant activities in different germplasms of Mucuna.” Journal of Medicinal Food. 2013 Jul;16(7):618-24 (source)
[vi] Bala V., Debnath A., Shill A., Bose U. “Anti-Inflammatory, Diuretic and Antibacterial Activities of Aerial Parts of Mucuna pruriens Linn.”International Journal of Pharmacology 2011 | Volume: 7 | Issue: 4 | Page No.: 498-503 (source)
[vii] Zecca L., et. Al. “New melanic pigments in the human brain that accumulate in aging and block environmental toxic metals” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA 2008 Nov 11; 105(45) (source)
[viii] Yadav S.K., Prakash J., Chouhan S., Singh S.P. “Mucuna pruriens seed extract reduces oxidative stress in nigrostriatal tissue and improves neurobehavioral activity in paraquat-induced Parkinsonian mouse model.” Neurochemistry International. 2013 Jun;62(8):1039-47 (source)
[ix] Shukla K.K., Mahdi A.A., Ahmad M.K., Jaiswar S.P., Shankwar S.N., Tiwari S.C. “Mucuna pruriens Reduces Stress and Improves the Quality of Semen in Infertile Men.” Evidence Based Complement and Alternative Medicine. 2010 Mar;7(1):137-44 (source)
[x] Knecht S., Breitenstein C., Bushuven S., Wailke S., Kamping S., Flöel A., Zwitserlood P., Ringelstein E.B. “Levodopa: faster and better word learning in normal humans.” Annals of Neurology. 2004 Jul;56(1):20-6. (source)
[xi] Rana D.G., Galani V.J. “Dopamine mediated antidepressant effect of Mucuna pruriens seeds in various experimental models of depression.” Ayu. 2014 Jan;35(1):90-7. (source)
[xii] Tharakan B., Dhanasekaran M., Mize-Berge J., Manyam B.V. “Anti-Parkinson botanical Mucuna pruriens prevents levodopa induced plasmid and genomic DNA damage.” Phytotherapy Research. 2007 Dec;21(12):1124-6. (source)
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HI, i’m looking to use L-dopa in a neurotropic brand new RTD is that possible to use in a carbonated can ??
Jean-Philippe, I do consultations with businesses as time permits. Get in touch via email if you are interested.
Hi David, can I take L-DOPA at the same time as Mind Lab Pro (which you kindly recommended) and Lamotrigine?
Thanks,
Chris
Chris, Lamotrigine is not directly contraindicated. But unless you are dealing with Parkinson’s it is better to use L-Tyrosine to increase dopamine. Adding to the NALT that is already in Mind Lab Pro.
Hi David, what’s your view on bromantane and have you tried it?
Thank you
Dan, I have not tried it. It is a Smart Drug as far as I know in the same class as phenethylamines and I use Ritalin for Adult ADD. So it would not be a good idea to combine the two.
I have parkinson’s (PD).
I’m aware you primarily recommend for PD L-Dopa (mucuna pruriens). I wonder if there are other nootropics, from the wide spectrum you are covering, which have potential therapeutic potential for slowing the PD .
Thanks,
Thomas
Thomas, I have a list of 19 nootropic supplements shown to help with Parkinson’s Disease. But have not had the time to write an article about my findings. I’m happy to share this list with you during a consultation if you are interested.
I have been unable to walk for most of 2022. At one point I tried 2400mg of mucuna extract (360mg L Dopa) once a day in addition to multiple other drugs/supplements and had some noticeable improvement but it wasn’t lasting. Since stopping it I have been taking oral liposomal methylene blue (MB) (100mg a day) and my doctor wants me to try a dopamine treatment again. He suggested starting at a very low dose of Sinemet (5mg/50mg) once a day to test if I have a major dopamine deficiency. I know that Sinemet and Methylene Blue are majorly contraindicated due to both being MAOIs. How does the synthetic levodopa compare in efficacy to naturally occurring L Dopa? Would L Dopa be safer to combine with MB than the Sinemet with less synthetic dopamine than the mucuna has of natural dopamine? Thanks so much!
Mark, Methylene Blue is a potent MAOI which is why it is contraindicated with anything that directly increases dopamine. That includes L-Tyrosine, natural L-DOPA extracted from Mucuna Pruriens as well as Sinemet. The only way I would suggest trying using both is under the direct supervision of your doctor. Because you must avoid a hypertensive crisis (i.e. heart attack).
Synthetic levodopa/carbidopa is theoretically similar to natural L-DOPA. Carbidopa is added to levodopa to avoid the side effects caused by using levodopa on its own. Natural L-DOPA on the other hand does not cause the same side effects as synthetic levodopa.
But both are contraindicated with Methylene Blue.
I have a Parkinson’s. I’m experimenting with mucuna MP- 98% l-dopa. I’ve started with 200mg l-dopa with no noticable effect for my tremor. Shall I incrementaly increase the dosage to see if there is any effect?
Thanks,
Thomas, I have Parkinson’s patients share with me they use anywhere from 300 – 600 mg per dose of 98% L-DOPA. And they do it 3 or 4-times per day.
Any source for mucuna?
Andrew, it depends on what you are using it for. I use Double Wood’s extract (20%) and an happy with it: https://nootropicsexpert.com/go/double-wood-supplements-mucuna-pruriens-extract/
But you’ll need a much higher strength extract if you are dealing with Parkinson’s.
I’m a bit confused about the terms used. Please help correct my understanding.
Levodopa is the synthetic version of L Dopa, it requires Carbidopa to get thru the blood Brain barrier.
L Dopa is Pure Natural levodopa extract from Mucuna. Doses it contain any other ingredients from the bean to help in getting it to the brain or does it require something to help in the synthesis to get to the brain.
Mucuna extract is the Mucuna bean and all its natural ingredients including small percentage of L Dopa/levodopa which along with other ingredients help make it to cross the blood brain barrier. Because the amount of L Dopa in the extract is small, it requires large amounts of the extract other wise little L Dopa would get to the brain to be effective.
Do I have all this right. I so what is the best way to use Mucuna to get away from using Carbidopa Levodopa (Synthetic) For Parkinsons
Thanks for your insight
Is my understanding correct?
Richard, carbidopa is combined with levodopa to prevent it from being converted into dopamine in the bloodstream which is what causes the severe side effects of using levodopa on its own. That combo actually allows more levodopa to cross the blood-brain barrier instead of allowing it to get carried throughout your body.
Natural L-DOPA extracted from Mucuna Pruriens does not cause the same side effects in your system as does synthetic levodopa. I have consultation clients successfully switching from the drug to natural L-DOPA. But you need to find an extract of 95 – 99% which are difficult to find. But they do exist.
Can I take Macuna Dopa if I am on SNRI antidepressant. I take low dose of effexor, and I does work well for my anxiety, but it doesent effect my mood. I feel like I need a boost and looking into availablie non medicine options.
I tried once before MD but then I was not on SNRI and it worked well, I remember I felt motivated and better then without supplement, but now I am cautious because I take this drug.
Ida, the danger is increasing norepinephrine too much. Which will increase once you boost dopamine by using Mucuna Pruriens. So theoretically and most likely clinically it is contraindicated. But I need to know the specific name of the drug to know if it could be a real problem.
Hi, I also take an SNRI (Desvelafaxine) 150mg per day and have tried L-DOPA extract 20% L-DOPA 500MG. Would this be appropriate? I know it will elevate my norepinephrine levels but I have not noticed side effects if taking every other day
Derek, L-DOPA is a direct precursor to the production of dopamine which goes on to produce norepinephrine. It is moderately contraindicated with desvenlafaxine so you need to be careful. As soon as you start feeling something you should not be feeling then back off of the L-DOPA.
Hi, what about L-DOPA if we take B6? I have red in some places that it should be avoided taking these 2 in the same day…?
Petar, Vitamins B6, B9 & B12 are required cofactors in the synthesis of dopamine. L-DOPA will not make dopamine within adequate levels of those B-Vitamins.