Abstract

HORSE GRAM (MACROTYLOMA UNIFLORUM): NUTRACEUTICAL PULSE CROP: A REVIEW

Rahul R. Kashid* and Santosh M. Talekar

Abstract

Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam.) Verdc commonly known as horse gram is a kind of legume of tropics and subtropics. Present review was undertaken to collect information on medicinal uses and nutritional values of M. uniflorum. In Ayurveda pharmacodynamics properties of M. uniflorum are Kashaya Rasa, Laghu, Ruksha, Tikshna Guna, Ushna Veerya and Katu Vipaka. Various medicinal preparations such as Dhanyamla and decoctions are prepared using seeds of M.uniflorum. It is mainly used as a tonic, astringent, diuretic and also recommended in rheumatism, neuralgia and other several diseases. Horse gram seeds are rich in natural phenols; mostly phenolic acids, flavonoids and the major anti-oxidants. Horse gram is considered as animal fodder and its full potential as a part of human diet has not been exploited completely. It can be consumed as seeds, as sprouts or as meal by itself. Horse gram is a well-known, inexpensive, underutilized source of nutrients like protein (22-24%). Seeds contain carbohydrates (57.2%), fat (1.1%), vitamins, minerals (3.2%) and good amount of soluble fibres. Macrotyloma uniflorum contains major bioactive constituents are acids like phenolic acid, phytic acid, proteinease enzymatic inhibitors have significant metabolic and physiological effects. Horse gram is very useful in treating kidney stones, weight loss, diabetes, cold, fever, cholesterol, throat infection, piles and jaundice and water retention. Used in weight loss diet and also because of rich in proteins(20%), because of low acceptable taste and flavor of cooked products it is used only by the farming community and low-income peoples, and called as underutilized, less expensive nutritional plant Extract of these seeds shows potent antiadipogenic, anti-hyperglycemic anti-hypercholesterolemic activities. It acts against oxidative stress.

Keywords: Macrotyloma uniflorum, Phytoconstituents, Hyperglycemic activity, Antioxidants, Food.