Herb's Introduction Lablab purpureus, commonly known as the hyacinth bean, is a versatile and widely cultivated flowering plant belonging to the family Leguminosae. Native to Africa and Asia, this herbaceous perennial is grown for its edible pods, seeds, and ornamental value. Its rapid growth and nitrogen-fixing properties make it an excellent cover crop and a valuable addition to many agricultural systems.
Names in Different Countries and Terminology
The hyacinth bean goes by a multitude of names across the globe, reflecting its widespread use and cultural significance. In addition to the provided list, some other names include:
English: Bonavist bean, Egyptian kidney bean, dolichos bean.
Spanish: Frijol de Egipto.
French: Dolique d'Égypte.
Swahili: Njugu mawe.
Thai: Tua Paeb.
The scientific name, Lablab purpureus, is a combination of the Arabic word "lablab" and the Latin "purpureus," meaning purple, a reference to the plant's often-purple flowers and pods. The term "hyacinth bean" is derived from its climbing habit and attractive, hyacinth-like purple or white flowers.
Availability
The hyacinth bean is a staple in many tropical and subtropical regions, cultivated extensively in Africa, Asia, and parts of the Americas. You can find it fresh in local markets during its growing season, which typically runs from late summer to fall. In many regions, the dried beans are available year-round in specialty food stores or online. The plant itself is also popular as an ornamental vine and can be grown easily in home gardens in warm climates.
External Look
Lablab purpureus is a vigorous, climbing vine that can grow up to 6 meters in length. Its appearance is quite distinctive and visually appealing:
Leaves: The leaves are trifoliate, meaning they are composed of three leaflets, and are often a vibrant green or purplish-green color.
Flowers: The plant produces showy, fragrant flowers in long clusters (racemes). The flowers are typically a vibrant purplish-pink or white.
Pods: The most recognizable feature is the flat, sickle-shaped pod, which can be green, purplish, or a deep magenta. These pods are about 4 to 6 inches long and contain 2 to 4 seeds.
Seeds: The seeds are oval, flattened, and can be various colors, including white, black, brown, or speckled. A notable feature is the prominent white hilum, the scar where the seed was attached to the pod.
Healing Properties and Advantages
Lablab purpureus is an important herb in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda, where it is valued for its diverse healing properties. It is a rich source of protein, dietary fiber, vitamins (especially B vitamins), and minerals like iron and potassium. Its medicinal properties are attributed to the presence of various bioactive compounds.
Febrifuge: The seeds and other parts of the plant are used to reduce fever.
Stomachic: It is known to aid digestion and soothe stomach ailments.
Antiseptic and Antifungal: The leaves and seeds have properties that help combat infections and fungal growths.
Diuretic: It helps increase urine output, which can be beneficial for kidney and urinary tract health.
Galactagogue: As mentioned, it is traditionally given to new mothers to increase milk production.
Wormicide: A decoction of the root is used to expel intestinal worms.
Important Note: The raw seeds contain a poisonous glucoside (cyanogenic glycoside) that can cause a toxic reaction. This compound is destroyed by heat, which is why the seeds must be thoroughly cooked before consumption.
Uses and Using Ways
The hyacinth bean is incredibly versatile, with uses spanning from culinary to medicinal to agricultural.
Culinary Uses
Tender Pods: The young, tender pods are cooked and eaten as a vegetable, similar to green beans. They are a common ingredient in stir-fries, curries, and stews, especially in Asian and African cuisine.
Dried Beans: The mature, dried seeds are a key source of protein and are used in a variety of dishes. They must be soaked and boiled for an extended period to render them safe to eat.
Leaves and Flowers: The young leaves and flowers are also edible and can be cooked and added to salads or used as a green vegetable.
Medicinal Uses
Leaf Decoction: A decoction of the leaves is used to treat conditions like diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. It's also applied externally as a poultice to soothe burns and skin irritations.
Leaf Juice/Paste: The juice of the leaves or a paste made from them is applied topically to treat skin diseases like ringworm and scabies.
Seed Powder: A powder made from the cooked seeds is mixed with milk to address leucorrhea.
Agricultural Uses
Cover Crop: Due to its fast growth and ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, Lablab purpureus is an excellent cover crop that enriches the soil and suppresses weeds.
Forage: The plant is also used as a nutritious forage crop for livestock.
Conclusion
Lablab purpureus, or the hyacinth bean, is a remarkable plant with a rich history and a wide array of uses. From a beautiful ornamental vine to a nourishing food source and a powerful medicinal herb, its value is recognized globally. While it provides significant health benefits and is an important part of traditional medicine systems, it is crucial to remember the importance of proper preparation, especially cooking the seeds, to neutralize the naturally occurring toxins. Its resilience, versatility, and multifaceted benefits make it a truly valuable asset to both agriculture and human well-being.
