Therapeutic and nutritive uses of <i>Macrotyloma uniflorum</i> (Lam.) Verdc. (Horsegram), a somewhat neglected plant of the family Fabaceae

Abstract

Underutilized legumes are a significant group of crops that have particular importance in subsistence farming and the nutritional security of resource-poor communities in developing countries. Horsegram [<i>Macrotyloma uniflorum</i> (Lam.) Verdc.], a lesser-known neglected legume, is one such crop that is mainly cultivated in Asian and African countries as a dual-purpose crop. This climate-resilient legume is well-known for its drought hardiness and favorable agronomic features that make it suitable for cultivating dry lands under poor soil fertility conditions. It has a nutritional value comparable to other commonly consumed pulses and serves as a cheap source of nutrition for unprivileged rural communities residing in inaccessible areas. In addition, horsegram has excellent therapeutic properties and is traditionally used to cure various conditions such as kidney stones, asthma, bronchitis, leukoderma, urinary discharges, heart diseases, and piles. Furthermore, it possesses anti-diabetic and anti-ulcer activity and can help in the dietary management of obesity due to the presence of beneficial bioactive compounds. This review summarizes the nutritional composition, antinutritional factors, medicinal properties, and the potential for horsegram to be exploited as functional/medicinal food for health benefits.