What is Kaunch Beej? Know its Benefits and Uses

2022-04-25 00:00:00

Cowhage famously known as Kaunch is a kind of creeper whose botanical name is Mucuna pruriens. It is also called kiwanch or kewanch. Apart from this, Kaunch is known by different names in different places like Kapikachhu, Kovanch, Alkushi, Kauncha and Kavach etc. Generally, there are two types of Kaunch- wild and cultivated. The wild kaunch is more hairy and grows mostly in forest, contact with which causes skin problems like itching or burning. The cultivated Kaunch is less hairy. These are also known as Velvet Beans. For years, the seeds, roots, and leaves of Kaunch have been used to make medicine in Ayurveda.

Benefits of Kaunch Beej

Beneficial in Parkinson's disease-

Consumption of Kaunch seeds is beneficial in Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's is a disease related to the nervous system. When nerve cells in the brain do not make enough of a compound called dopamine, this condition is called Parkinson's. In such a situation, consuming kaunch seeds is a great remedy. According to a report published on the website of NCBI, Kaunch seeds are effective for Parkinson's because they contain an amino acid called L-dopa which helps to prevent the problem of Parkinson's.

To relieve stress-

Kaunch seeds are used to relieve stress. The nutrients present in it are known to promote brain health. Apart from this, antidepressant and anti-oxidant properties are found in the seeds of kaunch, which helps in dealing with mental problems like stress, depression, etc. For this, taking the powder of Kaunch seeds is beneficial.

Helpful in insomnia-

Nutrients present in Kaunch seeds are beneficial in relaxing the mind. By using it the mind becomes calm. Along with this, it is also helpful in the problem of insomnia . For this, take a decoction made from the seeds of Kaunch.

Benefits in infertility and impotence-

In the problem of infertility and impotence, the seeds of kaunch are effectively used as medicine. According to research done on this, the antioxidant properties in kaunch seeds are effective in increasing fertility. It also improves the quality of sperm. For this, take the powder of Kaunch seeds with milk every morning and evening.

Helpful in weakness-

Kaunch seeds have been used for years for weakness. Elements like antioxidants, proteins, calcium, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus and copper are found in abundance in Kaunch beej which are helpful in removing the weakness.

Beneficial in body or back pain-

Nowadays many people are suffering from body ache or back pain due to hectic routines. This pain in the body interferes with everyday work due to which people start taking various types of painkillers which may lead to many side effects. In such a situation, it is beneficial to consume Kaunch seeds because it has anti-inflammatory and anti-analgesic properties, which work to relieve body or back pain.

Helpful in reducing weight-

Kaunch seeds prove to be effective for reducing weight as well. It has anti-obesity properties, which helps in controlling weight. Therefore, people suffering from obesity must include kaunch seeds in their diet.

Beneficial in reducing cholesterol-

Hypercholesterolemia i.e, having high cholesterol can be the cause of diseases related to heart and arteries. Therefore, it is very important for a person to control cholesterol. In this case, the seeds of Kaunch are beneficial. According to a research done on this, anti-cholesterol activity is found in the seeds of kaunch. It lowers LDL i.e, bad cholesterol. It also increases HDL i.e, good cholesterol. Therefore, it acts like a medicine for the patients of high cholesterol.

For diabetes-

The use of Kaunch seeds is good for diabetes. It helps in reducing the level of glucose in the body. According to research done on this, anti-diabetic and antihyperglycemic properties and antioxidants are found in kaunch seeds which help in reducing blood glucose and oxidative stress. 

As an antioxidant-

Kaunch is rich in antioxidants which helps to protect the body from harmful free radicals. It also works to keep the body healthy.

Uses of Kaunch Beej

• Kaunch seed is used in the form of a decoction.
• It is used in the form of capsules or tablets.
• The powder made from its seeds is consumed with lukewarm water or milk.
• The leaves of Kaunch can be grinded and used as a paste. It is generally advised to consult a doctor before doing this.

 

Side effects of Kaunch Beej

• Anti-antinutritional effects are found in the seeds of kaunch. Therefore, consuming too much of it can lead to deficiency of nutrients in the body.
• It is rich in an amino acid called L-dopa, excessive consumption of which can cause problems such as vomiting, nausea, headache and excessive sleepiness.
• Pregnant women or lactating mothers should not consume it because it is hot in effect which can lead to miscarriage or harm to children.

Where is Kaunch found?

Kaunch is generally found in the plains. Apart from this, it is also spotted in the Himalayan regions. In India, it is majorly found in all the plains and in the Himalayas at an altitude of 1000 m.