EXPLORATION OF MEDICINAL IMPORTANCE OF AN UNDERUTILIZED LEGUME CROP, MACROTYLOMA UNIFLORUM (LAM.) VERDC. (HORSE GRAM): A REVIEW

摘要

Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam.) Verdc. also known as horse gram or Kulthi bean has been an underutilized legume crop with immense medicinal importance/potential. It is considered as a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is characteristically known for its biotic and abiotic resistance, e.g., resistant to drought, salt, and insects. There are umpteen references available in the traditional medicinal system reverberating its medicinal significance. Its various bioactivities like anti-diabetic, analgesics, anticalcifying, anti-hypercholesterolemic, anti-obesity, antihelmintic, antioxidant, larvicidal and anorectic properties have already been reported. Despite being both sturdy and nutritive food crop, its consumption is very low. The present review attempts to compile medicinal uses of this crop to attract the people for its consumption. Its regular consumption not only adds to health benefits but also provides useful nutrition.