CategoriesPlants and Active Ingredients Guide

Mulungu : Benefits, origin, use as a food supplement

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Mulungu : Bienfaits, origine, utilisation en complément alimentaire

What is Mulungu?

Mulungu, also known as Erythrina Mulungu, is a tree native to the tropical regions of South America, particularly Brazil, Peru and Bolivia. Its scientific name, Erythrina, comes from the Greek "erythros" meaning red, referring to the colour of its flowers. Other common names include "coral flower" and "flowering coralandine" in English, and "pau de mulungu" in Portuguese.

The Mulungu tree can grow up to 15 metres tall and its leaves resemble those of the maple tree, with thorny branches. Its flowers, which appear between June and September, are bright orange and its fruit are small pods containing many seeds.

For centuries, Mulungu has been used in traditional medicine by Amazonian tribes for its calming properties and health benefits. Today, it is increasingly used as a dietary supplement for its many health benefits.

What are the benefits of Mulungu?

Mulungu has many health benefits, including relaxing properties and the ability to relieve stress and anxiety. Here are some of its most important benefits:

  • Calming effect: Mulungu's main benefit is its ability to help relieve stress, anxiety, restlessness and insomnia. It works by stimulating the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are responsible for regulating mood and relaxation.
  • Reduced hypertension : By stimulating the production of serotonin, Mulungu can help to reduce blood pressure, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
  • Antioxidant : Mulungu contains powerful antioxidant compounds, such as flavonoids and phenols, which help to fight free radicals and protect the body's cells from oxidative damage.
  • Pain relief : In traditional medicine, Mulungu is used to relieve muscle and joint pain, headaches and menstrual cramps. It is also effective in reducing the symptoms of migraine and arthritis.
  • Anti-inflammatory : Thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Mulungu can help relieve the inflammation and pain associated with conditions such as arthritis and chronic inflammatory diseases.

How can Mulungu be used as a dietary supplement?

Mulungu is mainly available as a powder, liquid extract or capsule. It can also be brewed as a tea from the dried leaves of the tree.

The recommended dose of Mulungu varies from product to product, but generally, a daily dose of 200-300mg of Mulungu extract is considered safe and effective. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and consult your doctor before starting any supplementation.

Mulungu can take up to 30 minutes to produce its effects, and the effects are felt for around 2 to 3 hours. It is recommended not to exceed 3 to 4 doses per day.

Precautions and side effects

Although Mulungu is generally considered to be safe and without serious side effects, it is important to take certain precautions when consuming it.

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is insufficient research to determine the safety of Mulungu during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Pregnant or breast-feeding women are therefore advised not to consume it.
  • Allergies : people allergic to plants in the legume family such as beans, peas or peanuts may be sensitive to Mulungu and should therefore avoid taking it.
  • Drug interactions : Mulungu may interact with certain medications, such as sedatives and antidepressants. If you are taking medication, consult your doctor before taking Mulungu to avoid any negative interactions.

Conclusion

Mulungu is a plant with numerous health benefits. Its calming and relaxing properties make it a popular dietary supplement for combating stress, anxiety and insomnia. Thanks to its powerful antioxidants, it can also protect the body against oxidative damage and reduce inflammation.

However, it is important to take precautions when consuming Mulungu and not to exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, it is always best to consult your doctor before starting any supplementation.

Remember that Mulungu should not be used as a substitute for a healthy, balanced lifestyle. It is important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly to reap the full health benefits of Mulungu.

Scientific sources :

– "Anxiolytic and Sedative Effects of Erythrina velutina in Wistar Rats: Involvement of GABAergic and Oxidative Mechanisms".
– "Erythrina spp.: A Review of Its Traditional Use, Chemical Properties and Pharmacological Studies.
– "Mulungu (Erythrina Mulungu Mart. ex Benth): An Anxiolytic Herb from the Brazilian Amazon".