As a naturally-occurring amino acid, L-Dopa benefits are already woven into how our brains and bodies function.
This pre-cursor to Dopamine and other vital neurotransmitters helps maintain excellent nerve communication. From that basis, much of our physical coordination and pleasure is derived.
Benefits of L-Dopa are reported to include reduced feelings of depression and improved concentration, mental drive and confidence. Let’s take look at how L-Dopa works in the body, and the best conditions under which to take it as a supplement.



- Elevates dopamine & norepinephrine
- Boosts mood, focus & motivation
- Improves stress response & libido
L-Dopa, Dopamine, and Neurotransmitters
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Neurotransmitters are a class of chemicals which relay information to structures within the brain.
This type of communication is vital to the healthy running of all of our physical and mental processes, from organ function to emotional wellbeing.
A deficiency in any one of the major neurotransmitters can lead to serious cognitive and nervous system disorders. This is why supplementation of nutrients like L-Dopa is so important.
Once in the blood, L-Dopa crosses the blood brain barrier and then breaks down into the neurotransmitter Dopamine. This is critical because Dopamine on its own cannot do this and therefore cannot be taken directly as a stand alone supplement.
Once it is activated, Dopamine signals pleasure responses in nerves. This feels like a sudden high or a flood of pleasant mood.
L-Dopa then goes on to stimulate the release of adrenaline and noradrenaline (epinephrine and norepinephrine), two hormones which spur increased metabolism. Testosterone production is also fired, which results in the release of human growth hormone from the hypothalamus, one of the most valuable L-Dopa benefits.
L-Dopa Benefits for the Mind
All of the hormones released upon consuming L-Dopa combine to create a high energy, euphoric feeling. Symptoms of depression like lethargy, hopelessness, and chronic pain are said to quickly dissipate. Anxiety and overwhelming emotions are replaced by calm concentration, backed up by the energy and motivation needed to follow through on plans.
L-Dopa also has neuro-protective antioxidant qualities, guarding cells against free radical damage. Tissue integrity and organ function are enhanced. By keeping dopamine levels balanced, L-Dopa has the ability to temper, delay, or prevent symptoms of nervous system disorders which stem from lack of dopamine, such as Parkinson’s Disease.
This seemingly inevitable condition awaits anyone who lives long enough to see their natural dopamine production slow to less than 30 percent. Symptoms include impaired motor control and various cognitive issues. L-Dopa could improve the quality of life for these patients, as well as help healthy minds stay that way longer. This could be one of the most profound L-Dopa benefits.
L-Dopa Benefits for the Body
One of the lesser known L-Dopa benefits is its work as an antioxidant. Not only can it protect organs and preserve brain health as discussed above, it can also reduce the visible signs of again in the body, such as wrinkles. It does this through the release of human growth hormone, which fosters healthy skin and the building of lean muscle.
Increased metabolism from L-Dopa’s catecholamine neurochemicals contributes to fat burning and overall vibrant energy. The combination of these factors makes L-Dopa an ideal partner to body building.
L-Dopa can also dramatically improve sexual health. It boosts libido in men and women alike. Men will produce more testosterone, while sperm will be protected from oxygen damage. L-Dopa sources such as Mucuna Pruriens have been used successfully as a folk medicine to increase virility for countless generations.
Possible Side Effects
L-Dopa is considered safe for human consumption, but there are some side effects which arise if dosage is not correct.
At the higher doses, above 1 gram per day, L-Dopa can be over-stimulating, and produce sleeplessness, hair loss, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal bleeding, and lack of muscle control.
For this reason, it is strongly recommended to stay within recommended dosage guidelines. This is the best way to maximize L-Dopa benefits.
There is also the possibility of dependency or tolerance if L-Dopa supplements like Mucuna are taken too frequently. This could be the most serious side effect of all. You can avoid it by only using L-Dopa occasionally, and being careful not to increase the dosage often. With occasional, respectful use, L-Dopa will remain quite safe and enjoyable.
Recommended L-Dopa Dosage
The best L-Dopa dosage for most people falls around 500 mg per day. At this amount, you are most likely to feel strong but not overwhelming mental and physical effects.
However, L-Dopa has a broad range of efficacy, and will produce results at as low as 100 mg or as high as 900 mg. To figure out your ideal dosage and get the most out of L-Dopa benefits, start at the lowest dose, 100 mg, and note the effects. On subsequent days, try increasing by 100 – 200 mg until you feel vibrant, joyful emotion, freedom from stress, strong libido, and mental clarity.
Most people feel all of these things far below the maximum dosage of 900 mg, and no additional benefits are to be gained after that point.
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Article last updated on: March 31st, 2018 by Nootriment
3 Comments
Buenas tardes. Tengo un ni?o de 8 a?os con agenesia del cuerpo calloso, lo que le provoca expaticidad en todo el cuerpo, le damos 2ml 3 veces al día, y estamos notando que esta más ausente, con menos fuerza y sin ganas de comer. Su neurólogo nos lo recetó, pero el ya toma tretabenacina, diazepam, valium,todo en pastillas y increlex inyección. Deberíamos reducir algún medicamento o suprimir l-dopa carbiodopa.
Gracias
Such ignorant …the body produce L-dopa …you can’t introduced it with a supplements ..all bullsh….to sell …only thing L-DOPA INJECTION THAT HELP PEOPLE with parkinson’s
Hey Traz,
Thanks for your comment. Before there were L-Dopa injections, Mucuna Pruriens was used as a natural remedy for Parkinson’s in traditional medicine for hundreds of years. There is evidence that L=Dopa found in mucuna pruriens extract is bioavailable and can cross the blood brain barrier when administered orally. Some research studies have also found it to be equally effective compared to levodopa and to exhibit a lower risk of side effects.
“Single-dose MP intake met all noninferiority efficacy and safety outcome measures in comparison to dispersible levodopa/benserazide. Clinical effects of high-dose MP were similar to levodopa alone at the same dose, with a more favorable tolerability profile.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28679598
Here are some more research articles that discuss the pharmacokinetics of L-Dopa from muncua pruriens as well as its use in treating Parkinson’s:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28642128
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28599249
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27544001
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26366963
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27206902