Vigna mungo
Vigna mungo · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (13 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Vigna mungo, commonly known as black gram, is a versatile legume frequently consumed in the form of black gram dhal or as a whole seed diet. Scientific investigations into its seeds have revealed a diverse range of pharmacological activities, including analgesic, antibacterial, anticancer, and anticonvulsant properties. Research specifically utilizing hydroalcoholic extract (VMHA) demonstrates its significant potential in managing various health conditions. The plant has shown efficacy in regulating blood glucose levels and cholesterol, making it a subject of interest for metabolic health. Additionally, its medicinal properties offer therapeutic benefits for gastrointestinal issues such as constipation and diarrhea.
- Synonyms
- Phaseolus Chlorospermus · Vigna Mungo Var. Silvestris · 9 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Seed
Classification
Common Names
Vigna mungo is a versatile legume that is known by several different names across various cultures and languages. In many English-speaking regions, it is most commonly referred to as Black Gram. However, its nomenclature shifts significantly in Portuguese-speaking areas, where it is identified by various regional labels. Depending on the local context, it may be called Feijão-colubrino, Feijão-da-China, or Feijão-da-Pérsia. Additionally, the plant is sometimes recognized as Feijão-do-Congo, reflecting its widespread global presence.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Vigna mungo is a botanical species known to be associated with several different scientific names throughout history. Due to various taxonomic classifications, it is frequently identified by the synonym Azukia muogo. Researchers also recognize the plant under the name Phaseolus aureus in certain academic contexts. Additionally, the species has been referred to as Phaseolus chlorospermus and Phaseolus gibbosus in older literature. Finally, the botanical identity of this plant is sometimes linked to the name Phaseolus hernandesii.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Vigna mungo is a notable member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. It belongs to the order Fabales and is a prominent representative of the family Fabaceae. Furthermore, this species is situated within the genus Vigna. Understanding these taxonomic relationships provides essential insight into the plant's evolutionary lineage.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Vigna |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Vigna mungo is widely distributed across the diverse landscapes of the African continent. In East Tropical Africa, the species can be found thriving within the regions of Tanzania. Moving toward the southern reaches, it establishes a presence in South Tropical Africa, specifically within Angola. The plant also maintains a strong foothold in West-Central Tropical Africa, spanning through Cameroon and the Central African Republic. Finally, its reach extends deep into the heart of the continent, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Vigna mungo is a self-supporting herb that grows with a sturdy, upright structure. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of approximately 0.9 meters. Its compact growth form makes it a manageable addition to various gardening environments.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Vigna mungo, commonly known as Black Gram, is a significant medicinal plant within the Fabaceae family that possesses a diverse range of pharmacological properties. Research indicates that its various phytochemical components exert several important biological activities both in-vitro and in-vivo. Specifically, the plant has demonstrated notable antibacterial and anthelmintic effects. Furthermore, it has been identified as having analgesic and anticonvulsant capabilities. Recent studies also highlight its potential anticancer activity, suggesting its broad therapeutic relevance.
Compounds
Vigna mungo, commonly known as mash, serves as a significant source of nutrition due to its high protein content. Specifically, the plant contains 1.79% lysine, which is an essential amino acid for dietary health. While cooking can reduce the concentration of lysine by approximately 35%, the process still offers benefits such as improved protein efficiency and digestibility. Research indicates that the nutritional profile can be further enhanced by supplementing the plant with different types of meat. Ultimately, these dietary combinations can optimize the overall protein utilization and nutritional value of the meal.
Conditions
Vigna mungo, also known as mung bean, contains bioactive proteins that demonstrate significant antifungal properties against various pathogens. Specifically, the plant produces a novel lysozyme and a protein called mungin that effectively treat Botrytis cinerea. These seed-derived components also show strong inhibitory activity against Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium solani. Furthermore, the antifungal reach of these proteins extends to treating Coprinus comatus. Finally, Vigna mungo provides protection against Mycosphaerella arachidicola through these specialized molecular mechanisms.
Preparations
Vigna mungo is prepared as black gram dhal, which is used in conventional Indian meals to study glycemic index responses. This plant is also prepared as a hydroalcoholic extract (VMHA) to evaluate its potential anti-osteoarthritic activity in rat models. Furthermore, Vigna mungo is prepared as a whole seed diet to examine its effects on serum lipids in normal and diabetic guineapigs. These different preparations allow for various medicinal and nutritional investigations of the species. Each form of the plant serves a specific purpose in assessing its biological impact on health.
Parts used
Vigna mungo, commonly known as black gram, possesses seeds that serve as a rich source of unique biochemical compounds. Research indicates that these seeds contain a specific monomeric protein characterized by its distinct hemagglutinating activity. Beyond its protein structure, the seeds play a significant role in nutritional health when integrated into a diet. Studies on animal models demonstrate that consuming the whole seed can significantly lower blood glucose and serum lipid levels. Consequently, the seed component of this plant shows great promise due to its potential antiatherogenic properties.