Mucuna urens
Mucuna urens · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Mucuna urens is a vigorous climbing legume known for its rapid growth and ability to cover large areas with dense foliage. This plant is particularly noted for its large, distinctive seeds which serve as a primary focus for botanical study. These seeds often contain bioactive compounds that have drawn significant interest from the scientific community. Beyond its aesthetic presence, the plant plays a crucial role in soil enrichment through nitrogen fixation. Understanding the specific characteristics of the seed is essential for maximizing the potential benefits of this climbing species.
- Synonyms
- Clitoria Zoophthalmum · Canavalia Altissima · 9 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Seed
Classification
Common Names
Mucuna urens is a versatile climbing plant known by a diverse array of regional and descriptive names. In various Spanish-speaking areas, it is frequently referred to as Fogaraté or Ojo de buey. This botanical identity shifts as one travels, crossing into Portuguese-speaking regions where it is called Olho-de-boi. English speakers often identify the species through its striking appearance as the Ox-eye Bean. Some even use the more playful moniker, the Red Hamburger Bean, to describe its unique characteristics.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Mucuna urens is a botanical species known to be associated with several scientific synonyms throughout taxonomic history. It has been identified in various texts under the names Cacuvallum altissimus and Canavalia altissima. Furthermore, the plant is frequently linked to the designation Clitoria zoophthalmum in certain botanical records. Other recognized synonyms include Dolichos altissimus, which reflects different historical classifications. Finally, the name Dolichos urens serves as another established synonym for this versatile climbing legume.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Mucuna urens is a notable member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the species belongs to the class Equisetopsida. It is further classified under the order Fabales, which connects it to a diverse group of flowering plants. This plant is a prominent representative of the genus Mucuna. Ultimately, its botanical identity is defined by its membership in the family Fabaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Mucuna |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Mucuna urens exhibits a remarkably wide geographical distribution that spans across several distinct global regions. In Africa, the species is primarily found throughout West-Central Tropical Africa and the Congo. Its reach extends far across the ocean to the North-Central Pacific, specifically within the islands of Hawaii. The plant also maintains a significant presence in South America, where it is widely distributed across Brazil. Within Brazil, its habitat encompasses the northern, northeastern, and southern territories of the country.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Mucuna urens is characterized by an obligatory climbing habit that allows it to scale surrounding vegetation. Through this specialized growth strategy, the plant can reach a maximum height of approximately 15 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Mucuna urens acts as a potential male antifertility agent by causing the complete degeneration of sperm within the testicular tubules. High doses of the extract lead to the separation of the acrosomal cap of the sperm cells from their nuclei. The plant also induces pycnosis in spermatids, primary, and secondary spermatocytes. Furthermore, administration of the seeds results in the collapse of the villi in the prostate gland. These combined histological changes demonstrate the plant's significant impact on male reproductive functions.
Preparations
Parts used
Mucuna urens, commonly known as the horse eye bean, contains specific bioactive properties within its seeds that significantly impact reproductive health. Scientific investigations into the crude extract of these seeds have revealed the presence of potent alkaloids. When administered to male subjects, high doses of the seed extract were found to cause complete degeneration of sperm within the testicular tubules. These physiological changes included the separation of acrosomal caps from nuclei and a notable reduction in secretions from the prostate and seminal vesicles. Ultimately, the study suggests that the seeds of Mucuna urens may serve as a potential agent for male antifertility.