Cowhage

(Cowhage)
Sanskrit: कपिकच्छु • Botanical: Mucuna pruriens Belc.

Kapikacchu (Mucuna pruriens) is a well-known climbing plant whose seeds are highly valued as an aphrodisiac (Vrishya) and Vata-alleviating remedy. The plant is covered with stinging hairs on its pods that cause intense itching (Kandu). The seeds are the main part used medicinally. It is described in all Vaishajya names as a premier Vata-shamaka and Vrishya drug. The seeds nourish all Dhatus and increase Shukra (reproductive tissue). The plant has trifoliate leaves and produces characteristic curved pods covered with irritating trichomes. Seeds are used in Parkinsonism (due to L-DOPA content), nervous debility, seminal weakness, and general tonic. The hair of pods is traditionally used as an anthelmintic - mixed with honey it expels roundworms. The roots are also used medicinally as Vrishya. Multiple species including M. pruriens and M. utilis are used. Dose: seed powder 3-6 masha; root powder 1 karsha.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Sweet (Madhura), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Heavy (Guru), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Key Constituents
L-DOPA, Mucunine, Prurienine, Fat-splitting enzyme, Alkaloids
Also Known As
English: Cowhage, Cowitch, Velvet Bean
Sanskrit: कपिकच्छु, आत्मगुप्ता, मर्कटी, शूकशिम्बी, कण्डुरा, प्रावृषायणी
Hindi: केवाँच, कौंच

What is Cowhage / Kapikacchu (कपिकच्छु)?

Kapikacchu (Mucuna pruriens) is a well-known climbing plant whose seeds are highly valued as an aphrodisiac (Vrishya) and Vata-alleviating remedy. The plant is covered with stinging hairs on its pods that cause intense itching (Kandu). The seeds are the main part used medicinally. It is described in all Vaishajya names as a premier Vata-shamaka and Vrishya drug. The seeds nourish all Dhatus and increase Shukra (reproductive tissue). The plant has trifoliate leaves and produces characteristic curved pods covered with irritating trichomes. Seeds are used in Parkinsonism (due to L-DOPA content), nervous debility, seminal weakness, and general tonic. The hair of pods is traditionally used as an anthelmintic - mixed with honey it expels roundworms. The roots are also used medicinally as Vrishya. Multiple species including M. pruriens and M. utilis are used. Dose: seed powder 3-6 masha; root powder 1 karsha.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Vrishya (aphrodisiac)
  • Balya (strengthening)
  • Vatahara (alleviates Vata)
  • Brumhana (nourishing)
  • Grahi (absorbent/binding)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Cowhage by Condition

Explore how Cowhage is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Cowhage for Fertility & Conception
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Cowhage for Male Sexual Health

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.