By Kayode Oseni
Mucuna
In a serene valley where wildflowers danced with the breeze and the air was perfumed with the scent of flourishing herbs, there lived a master herbalist named Elder Rowan. Deeply respected in his village and beyond, Rowan had dedicated his life to understanding the mysteries of flora. He had many eager disciples, each yearning to learn the ancient secrets behind the potency of herbs, crops, and roots.
One bright morning, in the sacred grove where Elder Rowan often taught the ways of Nature, a young disciple named Finn approached the master with a burdened heart. Finn had recently learned that some of his friends struggled with issues of virility and fertility, and it weighed heavily on his conscience. “Master Rowan,” he said earnestly, “Is there a potent herb that can help men with low sperm count? We must find a solution for those in need.”
The master stroked his graying beard thoughtfully, his gaze taking on a distant look as he recalled the knowledge imparted to him by ancient scrolls and whispered legends. “Ah, Finn,” he began, “there exists a wondrous seed known as Mucuna. This miraculous plant holds one of Nature’s finest gifts for restoring men’s virility.”
Eagerly, Finn listened as the master continued. “But there is a catch. The seed grows inside a peculiar pod characterized by fine, hair-like structures that shun animals from feasting upon it. It seems Nature, wise and watchful, reserves this treasure solely for humans. However, there is a lesson inherent in acquiring it—a lesson in patience.”
Finn frowned slightly, perplexed. “Patience? What do you mean, Master?”
Elder Rowan chuckled softly, his eyes sparkling with wisdom. “To extract the seeds, you must first overcome the defenses of the pod. Its hair-like spines will prickle and sting if you are hasty or careless, and that will cause some serious itching. It demands a careful approach and a calm heart.”
“Then how do I prepare?” Finn asked, determination igniting in his spirit.
The master herbalist drew a small map in the dirt with a stick. “First, you must locate the Mucuna plant, found flourishing along riverbanks and in the shade of grand trees. Gently, you will harvest the pods, ensuring that you do not rush. Breathe deeply, clear your mind, and approach the task with reverence.”
“But once I have the pods, what then?” Finn inquired.
“Next, you must soak the pods in a large pot of warm water to soften the hairs, then allow the pods to dry under the sun. Once fully dried, the hairs will gently detach and get blown away by the wind. It would help if you patiently waited for all the hairs to be cleared off the pods, then you can carefully split them open with precision. Remember, Finn, no sudden movements. Take your time to shield yourself from their itchy defenses. And then you will be left with the gentle process of extracting the beans from the pod”
“Will it truly help my friends?” Finn asked, his brow furrowing with worry.
Elder Rowan nodded, his voice firm yet gentle. “Of that, I am sure. Mucuna contains L-Dopa, which can harmonize bodily functions and help boost testosterone, which rejuvenates vitality. However, the process is a journey, teaching you the essence of patience, respect for Nature, and the importance of careful deliberation in pursuing herbal wisdom.”
With that, Finn thanked his master and set off, his heart light with newfound purpose. He traversed the meandering paths through the valley, led by the sweet songs of birds and the gentle rustle of leaves. He found the Mucuna plants, their vibrant green leaves glistening under the sunlight, and the pods hanging like little fruits, covered with many tiny hairs that seemed to be like millions of daggers protecting the pods.
With every movement, he recalled Elder Rowan’s words. He harvested the pods with mindfulness and soaked them before spreading them gently under the sun. During the drying process, he returned to the master, sharing stories and learning more about the wonders of herbs.
Days passed, and the pods dried to perfection. When the time came, Finn approached with the utmost care, splitting the pods slowly and attentively. Sure enough, there lay the lustrous Mucuna seeds, covered with hard shells, waiting patiently to reveal their power. With even more patience and endurance he extracted the velvet beans from their shells.
With joy in his heart, Finn rushed back to his village, ready to share Nature’s gift. He spoke to his friends, teaching them not just about the seeds but also about the knowledge he gained—patience and respect for the wisdom Mother Nature provided.
As the men consumed the seeds, they not only felt their vitality returning, but they also learned from Finn the values of patience, respect, and understanding the deeper connections that bind humanity to Nature. Elder Rowan, watching from a distance, smiled, knowing that Finn had not only found a cure but had also embraced the essence of herbalism—the intertwined journey of seeking knowledge and nurturing the very world around them.
- Prof Kayode Oseni of African American University, Porto Nove, Benin Republic, is the Chief Consultant of Alayo Wellness and Health Centre, 100 Abeokuta – Ibadan Road, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
