Vigna subterranea
What's the taxonomical classification of Vigna subterranea?
Vigna subterranea belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within this lineage, it is situated in the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae. Following its taxonomic progression, it falls under the order Fabales and is a member of the family Fabaceae. Finally, its specific biological identity is defined by the genus Vigna and the species subterranea.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Vigna |
| Species | subterranea |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Vigna subterranea has a prostrate or ascending growth habit characterized by trifoliate leaves, a taproot system, and small, yellow, papilionaceous flowers. The leaflets are typically ovate to elliptical in shape and can vary in size depending on the specific cultivar. Its stems are often hairy and sprawl along the ground, which facilitates the unique reproductive process of geocarpy. Following pollination, the flower stalks elongate to push the developing pods into the soil for maturation. These pods are typically small, cylindrical, and contain several seeds that vary in color from cream to brown.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, specifically spanning from West Africa through Central Africa to East Africa. While its evolutionary origins are rooted in the African continent, it has been widely introduced to other warm climates globally. It is now cultivated extensively throughout Southeast Asia and parts of the Indian subcontinent due to its ability to thrive in various soil types. In many regions, it has become a naturalized component of local agricultural landscapes. The species continues to spread across many tropical zones where it can tolerate seasonal drought.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant, commonly known as Bambara groundnut, requires well-drained, sandy or loamy soils and warm temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius for successful cultivation.
Farmers typically plant the seeds at a depth of 3 to 5 centimeters during the onset of the rainy season. Because the crop is highly drought-tolerant, it can thrive in semi-arid regions where other legumes might fail. Proper spacing is essential to allow the low-growing vines to spread across the ground. Regular weeding during the early stages of growth helps prevent competition for nutrients and moisture.
Once established, the plant is relatively low-maintenance and provides a reliable source of protein in poor soil conditions.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant, Vigna subterranea, provides medicinal value through its beans, cotyledons, roots, and seeds. The seeds and beans are often utilized in traditional remedies to address various health concerns. Additionally, the cotyledons within the seeds contain nutrients that support therapeutic applications. The roots are frequently prepared as decoctions to treat specific ailments. Each of these distinct plant parts contributes unique properties to the medicinal use of the species.
According to a study published by "International journal of food sciences and nutrition", the protein contents of unmalted bambara groundnut flour were 18.8% (dry weight). After malting, these levels increased to a maximum of 28.55% (dry weight) after 2 days. On malting for 120 h, approximately 59% of the phytic acid contents of bambara groundnut flour were removed. The optimum malting time for these beans was found to be between 72 and 96 h.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- bean
- cotyledons
- root
- seed
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant Vigna subterranea is used extensively within Traditional African Medicine to treat various ailments including skin infections, digestive issues, and inflammation. Local healers often prepare decoctions from the roots or leaves to alleviate stomach pains and promote healing in wounds. In many rural communities, the plant serves as a nutritional staple and a source of protein through its edible seeds. Historical dietary patterns show that these seeds are frequently incorporated into stews to enhance food security. Beyond its medicinal value, the plant plays a crucial role in soil fertility through nitrogen fixation in traditional farming systems.
According to a study published by "BioFactors (Oxford, England)", Vignea subterranea, also known as Bambara groundnut, has been used in Africa to treat some malignancies and inflammatory disorders. Methanol extracts of this plant were found to inhibit 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced COX-2 expression. This inhibition occurred in human breast epithelial (MCF10A) cells and in mouse skin in vivo. Furthermore, the methanol extracts of Vignea subterranea inhibited the DNA binding of NF-kappaB activated by TPA in MCF10A cells in a dose-dependent manner. These findings suggest that the plant may inhibit TPA-induced COX-2 expression through the suppression of NF-kappaB DNA binding.
The hystorical systems that uses this plant are shown in the list below.
- Traditional African Medicine
What are the pharmacological activities of Vigna subterranea?
This plant has antimicrobial, antioxidant, α-amylase inhibitory, α-glucosidase inhibitory, and angiotensin I converting enzyme inhibitory pharmacological activities. These biological properties suggest that Vigna subterranea may play a significant role in managing metabolic disorders such as diabetes and hypertension. Specifically, the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes helps regulate postprandial blood glucose levels. Its antioxidant capacity further assists in neutralizing harmful free radicals within the body. Additionally, the ability to inhibit the angiotensin I converting enzyme indicates potential utility in cardiovascular health management.
According to a study published by "Heliyon", Vigna subterranea is a drought-tolerant crop that possesses both antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The extracts of Vigna subterranea have been reported to exhibit antimicrobial activities against specific bacteria including Klebsiella pneumoniae subsp. pneumoniae ATCC 700603, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, and Staphylococcus aureus subsp. aureus ATCC 33591. Additionally, its medicinal and nutraceutical value extends to combatting Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, yeast (Candida albicans), and mold (Aspergillus niger). This review examines the antimicrobial potentials of the crop to ascertain its importance as a nutraceutical.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- antimicrobial
- antioxidant
- α-amylase inhibitory
- α-glucosidase inhibitory
- angiotensin I converting enzyme inhibitory
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains a diverse array of bioactive medicinal compounds including various flavonoid subgroups such as flavanols and isoflavones, alongside phenolic acids and other complex polyphenolic compounds. These specific chemical constituents contribute to the significant antioxidant and therapeutic potential of the species. The presence of phenolic acids provides essential protective qualities against oxidative stress within biological systems. Furthermore, the distribution of different flavanols and isoflavones suggests a complex profile of phytochemical activity. Such a rich concentration of polyphenolic compounds highlights the botanical importance of this species in traditional medicine.
According to a study published by "Heliyon", Vigna subterranea is a legume with a rich nutrient profile that is used in African traditional medicine for various health outcomes. This plant is rich in polyphenolic compounds including flavonoid subgroups such as flavonols, flavanols, anthocyanidins, and isoflavones. It also contains phenolic acids consisting of both benzoic acid and cinnamic acid derivatives. Additionally, the plant contains biologically active polyunsaturated fatty acids, proteins, peptides, antioxidant vitamins, and minerals. Compared to beans, Vigna subterranea has a greater quantity of soluble fiber and high dietary fiber.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- flavonoids subgroups
- flavonols
- isoflavones
- phenolic acids
- polypholenic compound
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for managing diabetes, hypertension, and vitamin A deficiency due to its high nutritional and medicinal value. The plant contains specific bioactive compounds that help regulate blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. Its properties also assist in controlling high blood pressure by supporting cardiovascular health. Additionally, the high concentration of beta-carotene in its leaves serves as a vital source to combat vitamin A deficiency. Consuming this legume provides essential micronutrients necessary for maintaining overall bodily functions.
According to a study published by "Journal of basic and clinical physiology and pharmacology", Vigna subterranea is used in folklore for the management of diabetes and hypertension. The plant's phenolic extracts inhibit enzymes linked to type 2 diabetes, specifically α-glucosidase and α-amylase, as well as the enzyme linked to hypertension, angiotensin I converting enzyme. These free and bound phenolic extracts inhibit these activities in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, the extracts significantly (p<0.05) inhibit Fe2+-induced oxidative stress in the pancreas in vitro. The inhibition of α-amylase, α-glucosidase, ACE, and oxidative stress may be part of the mechanism used to manage or prevent type 2 diabetes and hypertension.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- diabetes
- hypertension
- vitamin A deficiency
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is used to create various medicinal preparations including Vigna subterranea flour, bound phenolic extracts, and a dawadawa-type product. The flour serves as a foundational base for nutritional supplementation and traditional therapeutic applications. Scientists have also developed specialized preparations by binding phenolic extracts to enhance the delivery of bioactive compounds. Additionally, the fermented dawadawa-type product provides a concentrated source of essential nutrients and medicinal properties. These diverse forms allow for different methods of administration and therapeutic use in traditional medicine.
According to a study published by "International journal of food sciences and nutrition", the protein content of unmalted bambara groundnut flour was 18.8% (dry weight). This value increased to a maximum level of 28.55% (dry weight) after 2 days of malting before decreasing to 20.92% (dry weight). During the malted process of 120 h, approximately 59% of the phytic acid contents of bambara groundnut flours were removed. The beans were malted for 0, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 h to observe changes in composition. The optimum malting time for the beans was found to be between 72 and 96 h.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Vigna subterranea flour
- bound phenolic extracts
- dawadawa-type product
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause serious health complications such as hemagglutination, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. Consuming certain components of the plant may trigger hemagglutination, which is the clumping of red blood cells. It is also linked to the development of hypercholesterolemia by raising levels of cholesterol in the blood. Furthermore, regular exposure can contribute to chronic hypertension and the onset of type 2 diabetes. These metabolic and physiological disruptions highlight the potential toxicity of the species.
According to a study published by "Plant foods for human nutrition (Dordrecht, Netherlands)", the hemagglutinating properties of Vigna subterranea are found only in its albumin fraction. Processing methods such as cooking whole seeds for 1-2 h, soaking, and fermentation can reduce hemagglutinating activity on cow red blood cells. Additionally, size reduction combined with heat treatment is effective in eliminating hemagglutination. The study also evaluated the effects of 0.01% concentrations of trypsin, pepsin, and proteases on the agglutination of human red blood cells. Proteolytic action from proteases proved to be more effective in reducing this activity than the use of trypsin and pepsin.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- hemagglutination
- hypercholesterolemia
- hypertension
- type 2 diabetes
What herbs are paired with Vigna subterranea?
This plant, commonly known as Bambara groundnut, pairs effectively with aromatic herbs such as basil, rosemary, and cilantro to enhance its nutty profile.
The mild, starchy flavor of the legume serves as a neutral base that allows the pungent notes of rosemary to stand out. Using basil can provide a fresh, peppery contrast that lightens the earthy essence of the seeds. Additionally, cilantro adds a bright, citrusy undertone that complements the legume in salads or stews.
These herb combinations help to elevate the natural complexity of the plant in various culinary applications.