Velvet bean (Pwa grate)

Traditionally used

⚠ The pod hairs are intensely irritant and the seeds are rich in L-dopa — potent, unsafe to self-dose, especially with Parkinson's medication or in pregnancy. Used under knowledgeable guidance for Parkinson's-type tremor, male fertility, low libido, low mood, anxiety, and muscle strength.

Prepared as

The velvet bean seeds are traditionally roasted over medium heat until they turn dark brown and crack open, then ground into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle. This powder is mixed with warm coconut milk or bush tea and consumed as 1-2 teaspoons daily, often taken in the morning on an empty stomach. Alternatively, the raw seeds can be boiled in water for 45 minutes to 1 hour, then strained and the decoction drunk in small cups throughout the day for strength and vitality.

In three languages

Kreyòl — ⚠ Plim sou gous yo grate anpil epi grenn yo chaje ak L-dopa — li pisan, li pa an sekirite pou ou doze tèt ou, sitou si w ap pran medikaman pou Parkinson oswa si w ansent. Itilize avèk konsèy yon moun ki konnen pou tranbleman tankou Parkinson, fètilite gason, mank kouvè, kè kase, enkyetid, ak fòs nan misk.

Français — ⚠ Les poils des gousses sont très irritants et les graines sont riches en L-dopa — puissant, dangereux à doser soi-même, surtout avec un traitement contre la maladie de Parkinson ou pendant la grossesse. Utilisé sous la conduite d'une personne expérimentée pour les tremblements de type Parkinson, la fertilité masculine, la baisse de libido, l'humeur basse, l'anxiété et la force musculaire.

Safety

Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.

⚑Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.

Kept alongside

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