Fructose Enhancement in Semen by Mucuna Pruriens: An Evidence-Based Review

Male infertility is a growing global concern, contributing to nearly half of all infertility cases. One of the key determinants of sperm viability and motility is fructose, the principal energy substrate in seminal plasma, produced primarily by the seminal vesicles. Low seminal fructose levels are associated with impaired sperm function, poor motility, and dysfunction of accessory sex glands. Mucuna pruriens, a medicinal legume rich in LDOPA and other phytochemicals, has been traditionally used as an aphrodisiac and fertility enhancer.This review compiles and evaluates current preclinical and clinical evidence— particularly the clinical administration of M. pruriens seed powder at a dose of 5 g/day, mixed with milk, for a duration of three months—on its role in enhancing seminal fructose levels and improving semen quality. It also increases the sperm concentration, motility, vitality and morphology. Clinical studies reveal that M. pruriens supplementation significantly increases seminal fructose concentration, corrected fructose levels (adjusted for sperm count), semen volume, sperm concentration, and motility in normozoospermic, oligozoospermic, and asthenozoospermic men. The corrected fructose level—a measure adjusted for sperm concentration—was notably improved after three months of supplementation. These effects are attributed to enhanced seminal vesicle function, improved antioxidant defense, and restoration of hormonal balance (LH, FSH, and testosterone), largely mediated through the dopaminergic effects of L-DOPA. In addition, M. pruriens reduces oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, further preserving sperm integrity.Despite promising outcomes, further research is warranted to directly quantify fructose modulation mechanisms and optimize formulations. Collectively, the evidence positions M. pruriens as an effective, affordable, and natural nutraceutical therapy for male infertility, with a unique benefit in restoring seminal fructose levels and accessory gland function alongside improving overall semen parameters.