If Mucuna pruriens is grouped with adaptogens, what mechanism is suggested for its stress-buffering effect beyond cortisol regulation?

Answer

Stabilization of neurotransmitter levels during periods of high physical or mental strain.

Adaptogens are generally defined as substances that enhance the body's resistance to various damaging effects of stress and help restore physiological equilibrium. While many traditional adaptogens focus their action on the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis and the regulation of cortisol, the proposed stress-buffering capacity of Mucuna pruriens is thought to arise differently. Because the bean supplies L-DOPA, it supports the building blocks necessary for key brain chemicals like dopamine. During significant physical or mental strain that typically depletes these chemical reserves, the stabilization of these neurotransmitter levels provided by the bean may aid the body system in rebounding more swiftly than it otherwise would.

If Mucuna pruriens is grouped with adaptogens, what mechanism is suggested for its stress-buffering effect beyond cortisol regulation?
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