Cyamopsis tetragonoloba
Cyamopsis tetragonoloba · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Cyamopsis tetragonoloba, commonly known as guar, is a versatile plant utilized extensively for its functional properties. When processed into preparations such as guar gum or dried and grounded forms, it serves as a powerful agent in managing various physiological states. The plant exhibits significant biological activities, acting as a 11B-HSD inhibitor, a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, a 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor, and an ACE inhibitor. These chemical characteristics make it effective in addressing conditions like hypercholesterolemia and regulating viscosity. Additionally, its derivatives can play a role in managing certain microbial environments, including those involving Aspergillus and Penicillium.
- Synonyms
- Lupinus Trifoliatus · Trigonella Tetrapetala · 5 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Cyamopsis tetragonoloba is a versatile plant known by a diverse array of regional names across the globe. In certain areas, it is commonly referred to as the Büschelbohne or the Guarbohne. It also carries the distinct moniker of Calcutta-lucerne, reflecting its historical botanical associations. In Chinese-speaking regions, the plant is recognized as Gua er dou. Furthermore, it is frequently identified by the name Siam-bean in various international contexts.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Cyamopsis tetragonoloba is a plant that has been identified by several different scientific names throughout botanical history. It is recognized under the synonym Cordaea fabiformis, reflecting its complex taxonomic classification. The species is also documented as Cyamopsis psoraloides and Dolichos fabiformis in various academic records. Furthermore, researchers have linked it to the names Dolichos psoraloides and Lupinus trifoliatus. Understanding these diverse synonyms is essential for ensuring accurate identification within botanical literature.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Cyamopsis tetragonoloba belongs to the expansive kingdom Plantae, representing a significant group of living organisms. Within this biological hierarchy, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further descends through the order Fabales, which connects it to a diverse array of related flora. The plant is a member of the family Fabaceae, a group well known for its important nitrogen-fixing capabilities. Finally, its specific identity is defined by its placement within the genus Cyamopsis.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Cyamopsis |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Cyamopsis tetragonoloba is a resilient species widely distributed across various regions of the African continent. Its presence is noted in East Tropical Africa, particularly within the borders of Tanzania. The plant also thrives in Northeast Tropical Africa, finding suitable habitats in both Chad and Ethiopia. Moving toward the southern reaches of the continent, it is commonly found throughout South Tropical Africa. Specifically, this species establishes itself within the diverse landscapes of Mozambique and Zambia.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Cyamopsis tetragonoloba is characterized by its distinct growth form as a herbaceous plant. This self-supporting species maintains a sturdy structure without the need for external assistance. It typically reaches a maximum height of approximately 1.46 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Cyamopsis tetragonoloba, commonly known as the cluster bean, is a vegetable frequently consumed throughout South India. This plant is a significant source of nutritional value, as it contains guar gum at a concentration of 20% on a dry weight basis. Research indicates that both the whole vegetable and its extracted guar gum can exert a hypocholesterolemic effect in subjects. Studies specifically show that these components work to lower cholesterol levels and reduce liver cholesterol concentrations. Ultimately, the presence of guar gum within the cluster bean plays a key role in its potential health benefits regarding lipid management.
Conditions
Cyamopsis tetragonoloba is studied under various irrigation regimes including 100% field capacity, 70% field capacity, and 40% field capacity to evaluate its growth and yield. The plant's gum can be utilized in active coatings to provide antifungal properties against specific pathogens. Specifically, these guar-based coatings demonstrate the ability to treat Aspergillus by inhibiting its growth. Additionally, the coatings effectively treat Penicillium to help reduce postharvest losses in fruits.
Preparations
Cyamopsis tetragonoloba is prepared as dried and grounded material for use in bioremediation experiments involving aquaponics water. This plant is also prepared as guar gum, a polysaccharide used to develop active coatings. These guar coatings are specifically utilized in food science to extend the shelf life of fresh pistachio fruits. By incorporating essential oils, the plant-derived guar coatings effectively reduce postharvest losses and inhibit fungal growth. Through these various preparations, Cyamopsis tetragonoloba serves important roles in both environmental management and agricultural preservation.