Cowage seed, also known as Mucuna pruriens, has a longstanding history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda. Its primary traditional uses have revolved around the treatment of neurological disorders (such as Parkinson’s disease), as well as as an aphrodisiac and a tonic for general health. In the context of gastrointestinal conditions like colitis, cowage seed has been valued mainly for its purported anti-inflammatory and restorative properties. Historical Ayurvedic texts mention its use in balancing the digestive system and reducing inflammation, which may have led to its application in conditions resembling colitis.

However, the scientific evidence supporting the use of Mucuna pruriens seeds specifically for colitis is limited. Some preclinical studies in animals have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects from extracts of the plant, suggesting potential benefit in models of colitis. For example, certain studies noted reduced severity of chemically-induced colitis in rats following administration of Mucuna pruriens extracts, presumably due to the plant’s modulation of inflammatory pathways and free radical scavenging activity. Despite these findings, there is a lack of robust clinical trials in humans that directly support its efficacy or safety for colitis. Thus, current use for this indication is justified more by traditional practice than by scientific validation, and the overall evidence should be considered weak and preliminary.