horse gram

Scientific name : Macrotyloma uniflorum

Horse gram belong to the beans family and is regarded as an inferior variety of beans. It is consumed in the form of sprouts in India , especially in Southern state of India. It is also cultivated as cattle fodder.

Horse gram is  a legume , cultivated in the tropics and subtropical regions and requires less water and is considered a dry-land agricultural crop.

The plant of horsegram is known to show antioxidant, astringent and diuretic action, anti-hyperglycemic properties which reduce insulin resistance. The seed coat of horse gram contains most of the anti-oxidant properties and hence it is advised to be consumed with its coat in intact.

Horse gram is rich in B-complex vitamins and protein. It is quite delicious to taste and at the same time highly nutritious. 

It is also used in India ayurvedic medicines  for cure of gastric problems , worm infections , cough and difficulty in breathing. Alternative medicines prescribe it for control of joint pains.

Horse gram is soaked in water for 10 hours which is mashed into paste and consumed 2-3 times a day for gall and kidney stones.

It is also beneficial for people who want to reduce their weight.

Hence it is considered to be a  natural health tonic. 

                                   

                                            For :  ABC Wednesday