Current Nutrition & Food Science, 2010, 6, 161-175 161

Antidiabetic Potential of Fabaceae Family: An Overview

Rathee Permender*,1, Chaudhary Hema2, Rathee Sushila1, Rathee Dharmender3 and Kumar Vikash1

1
PDM College of Pharmacy, Bahadurgarh, Haryana, India
2
Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
3
Dept. of Pharmacognosy & Phytochemistry, JCDM, Sirsa, India

Abstract: Diabetes mellitus is a global metabolic epidemic affecting essential biochemical activities in almost every age
group. Over the last century changes in human behavior and lifestyle have resulted in a dramatic increase in the incidence
of diabetes world over. Traditional medicinal plants and herbs having potential anti-diabetic activity are being used as part
of diet since prehistoric time. Scientific data on a number of medicinal plants have proved remarkable for cure of diabetes
and its complications. The current paper is aimed at providing an overview of the most effective hypoglycemic plants and
herbs of Fabaceae Family along with the safety profile of the species used.
Keywords: Antidiabetic activity, traditional plants, herbal medicine, fabaceae, insulino-mimetic activity.

INTRODUCTION pared the active extracts of pancreas which were found to

have lowered the elevated glucose levels of diabetic dogs [4]
Nature had provided a complete storehouse of remedies
in Toronto.
to cure all ailments of mankind. Since the dawn of civiliza-
tion, man is dependant on herbs for his medicinal needs. The The first recorded description of diabetes mellitus [5]
human being appears to be afflicted with more diseases than dates back to the Ebers papyrus in Egypt around 1500 B.C.
any other animal species. In the past almost all medicines The Ebers Papyrus written in approximately 1550 B.C. pro-
used were from plants, the plants being man’s only chemist vides the earliest documentation about the use of plants in
for ages. Today there has accumulated a vast store of knowl- the treatment of conditions associated with diabetes [6]. In
edge concerning the therapeutic properties of different plants India, the early Ayurvedic texts such as the Sushruta Sam-
[1]. hita and the Charaka Samhita written in the 4th to 5th cen-
tury B.C. describe the use of about 760 and 500 species of
The practice of herbal medicine dates back to the very
medicinal plants, respectively, including those prescribed for
earliest periods of known human history. There is evidence conditions such as glycosuria, polyphagia, and polyuria as-
of herbs having been used in the treatment of diseases and
sociated with diabetes [7]. In China, Ben Jing, written in
for revitalizing body systems in almost all ancient civiliza-
about 104 B.C., contains detailed descriptions of 252 species
tions - The Indian, The Egyptian, The Chinese and even the
with reference to those used to treat diabetes.
Greek and Roman civilizations. Even the Holy Bible records
the use of herbal medicine to cure ailments during the bibli- Despite their long tradition of use in most parts of the
cal period. The Rig-Veda, which is the oldest book in the world, very few of these species have been exposed to mod-
library of man, supplies the information about some herbs. ern, large-scale, clinical-type trials to test their efficacy.
Some species used in the ancient civilizations of India and
In 250 A.D., a Greek physician, the renowned Aretaeus
China have been used for hundreds of years indicating that
of Cappadocia gave the name ‘Diabetes’ [2]. He made the
they are effective. However, it is clear that more research
first complete clinical description, describing it as, “a melt-
needs to be undertaken on these species because, in most
ing down of the flesh and limbs into urine”. The word ‘dia- cases, the active compounds and their mode of action still
betes’ literally means, “passing through” and ‘mellitus’
remain unclear. For example, hundreds of species are used in
means, “Honey urine”. Accordingly, Ayurveda, also names
Chinese medicine for treating diabetes, but only seven multi-
diabetes as “adhya roga” that is a rich man's disease. The
ple-species antidiabetic products have been approved for
implication of genetic features in the pathogenesis of diabe-
clinical use in China [8].
tes, which was reported in western literature in this century,
was actually described by Charaka, as ‘Bija dosha’ as early The World Health Organization estimated that about 30
as 1200 B.C. [3]. million people suffered from diabetes in 1985 and the num-
ber increased to more than 171 million in 2000. The estimate
The first attempt to clinically prove the mechanism and
of the number will increase to over 366 million by 2030 [9]
enzymes involved in diabetes was made in 1921, when
and that large increase will occur in developing countries,
Fredrick Banting and his graduate student Charles Best, pre-
especially in people aged between 45 and 64 years.
Therefore there is a huge need of pharmacological agents
*Address correspondence to this author at the PDM College of Pharmacy,
for diabetes. The treatment of type I Diabetes mellitus re-
Bahadurgarh, Haryana, India; Tel: 09466593965;
E-mail: coolpr79@rediffmail.com quires the administration of insulin. In type II Diabetes mel-

1573-4013/10 $55.00+.00 © 2010 Bentham Science Publishers Ltd.

162 Current Nutrition & Food Science, 2010, Vol. 6, No. 3 Permender et al.

litus insulin may or may not be required, the symptoms acid, abrusgenic-acid-methyl-ester, abruslactone, abrussic-
could be controlled by the use of oral hypoglycaemic agents acid, anthocyanins, campesterol, choline, cycloartenol, del-
which includes the prominent class of sulphonyl ureas apart phinidin, gallic-acid, glycyrrhizin, hypaphorine, N, N-
from other classes of drugs like biguanides, meglitanides, dimethyl-tryptophan, N, N-dimethyl-tryptophan-methocation-
thiazolidinediones etc. [10]. methyl-ester, p-coumaroylgalloyl-glucodelphinidin, pectin,
pentosans, picatorine, polygalacturonic-acids, precasine, pre-
There is a wide spread belief that the natural products are
catorine and protein trigonelline.
less toxic when compared to pure chemicals. In many cases,
it is found that the plant or an extract of the plant has some
therapeutic activity, which is not seen in the pure compo- Safety Profile
nents isolated from it. It is possible that another component It can burn the mouth and oesophagus. It can also lead to
nullifies the toxic effects of some components of a plant and severe gastroenteritis with vomiting, haematemesis, diar-
the whole plant extract becomes less toxic and more useful. rhoea, melaena, and abdominal pain. Later drowsiness, dis-
The claims of therapeutic efficiency and lack of toxicity of orientation, weakness, stupor, convulsions, shock, cyanosis,
many plants have been scientifically proved in recent years. retinal haemorrhages, haematuria, and oliguria can occur.
There are however, a large number of plants of questionable Contact with the eyes can cause conjunctivitis and even
value among the vast repertory of indigenous drugs. It will blindness.
be a worthwhile exercise if one tries to select the best out of
them.
• Acacia arabica
There are different mechanisms of action of the plants of
the family Fabaceae; some of them act like Insulin, some Commonly known as babool-bark, kikar, babul, Indian
acts on the Insulin secreting -cells, some acts by inhibiting gum arabic tree, suntwood is found in north and central

- amylase &
- glucosidase enzymes responsible for break- Africa and southwest Asia.
down of polysaccharides, while others acts by modifying
glucose utilization. Traditional Uses
The family Fabaceae consists of mostly herbs but include Acacia arabica has been used in traditional herbal heal-
also shrubs and trees found in both temperate and tropical ing as either an astringent or an antidiarrheal. In Ayurvedic
areas. It is the third largest family of flowering plants with medicine Acacia arabica is considered a remedy that is help-
730 genera and over 19,400 species according to the Royal ful for treating premature ejaculation. The fresh pods of Aca-
Botanical gardens. The largest genera are Astragalus with cia arabica tree are effective in sexual disorders like sperma-
more than 2,000 species, Acacia with more than 900 species torrhea, loss of viscidity of the semen, frequent night dis-
and Indigofera with around 700 species. The present review charges and premature ejaculation. The bark of babul tree is
focuses on the 54 species of the Fabaceae family having useful in the treatment of eczema. The chewing of the fresh
antidiabetic activity. The plants are summarized in the bark of the plant daily helps in strengthening loose teeth and
Table 1. arrest any bleeding from the gums. The leaves of tree are
effective in the treatment of conjunctivitis, epiphora. The
THE COMMONLY USED SPECIES FOR ANTIDIA- bark of the babul tree is useful in leucorrhea. The gum allays
BETIC ACTIVITY INCLUDES: any irritation of the skin and soothes the inflamed mem-
branes of the pharynx, alimentary canal and genitor-urinary
• Abrus precatorius organs. A decoction of the babul bark, mixed with rock salt,
is used as a gargle in treating tonsillitis.
Commonly known as Jequirity, Crab's Eye, Rosary Pea,
John Crow Bead, Precatory bean, Indian licorice, Saga Tree
or Indian bead is a legume native to Indonesia and grows in Chemical Constituents
tropical and subtropical areas of the world. The main chemical constituents of Acacia arabica are
tannins, gallic acid, m-digallic acid, (+)- catechin, chloro-
Traditional Uses genic acid, gallolyated flavan -3,4- diol and robidandiol.
The plant is used in some traditional medicine to treat
scratches and sores, and wounds caused by dogs, cats, and Safety Profile
mice, and are also used with other ingredients to treat leu- The plant at 2% and 8% levels has low toxic potential. It
coderma. The leaves are used for their anti- supportive prop- also causes pollen allergy.
erties. They are ground with lime and applied on acne sores,
boils, and abscesses. The plant is also traditionally used to • Acacia catechu
treat tetanus, and to prevent rabies. Various African tribes
use powdered seeds as oral contraceptives and to treat diabe- Commonly known as catechu, cachou, black cutch, khair,
tes and chronic nephritis. koir, kher babul, kaderi and sandra in local Indian languages
and khadira in Sanskrit is a medium sized deciduous tree
Chemical Constituents grows naturally almost over whole India and the rest of In-
dian subcontinent. It is said that the name ‘catechu’ was
The chemical constituents of the plant includes- (+)-
given to it because its bristles resemble the claws of animals
abrine, abraline, abrasine, abricin, abrin, abrisin, abrusgenic-
of the cat family.
Antidiabetic Potential of Fabaceae Family: An Overview Current Nutrition & Food Science, 2010, Vol. 6, No. 3 163

Table 1. List of Plants of Family Fabaceae Having Proven Antidiabetic Activity

S. No. Species Part Used Comments About Activity

1 Abrus precatorius Leaf, seed Precatorine [11] shown to have hypoglycemic activity. The chloroform – methanol extract of
Abrus precatorious was able to reduce alloxan hyperglycaemic blood glucose levels. The
extract was seen to be slightly more potent than chlorpropamide -a known antidiabetic drug in
the class of sulfonylurea [12]. Lectins also have antidiabetic activity [13]

2 Acacia arabica Bark, fruit Reduces glucose levels in alloxan diabetic rabbits [14], [15] and rats [16]

3 Acacia catechu Stem, seed Extracts reported to have hypoglycemic activity in albino rats [17], [18]

4 Acacia melanoxylon Seed Proteins [19] used to treat diabetes in young rats [20]

5 Acacia modesta Seed Reduces glucose levels [21]

6 Acacia suma Seed Extracts reported to have hypoglycemic activity [17]

8 Albizia lebbek Bark, seed pod Used to treat diabetes [21]

9 Albizia moluccana Seed Used to treat diabetes and reduces cholesterol level in young rats [20]

10 Arachis hypogaea Nut Aqueous extracts era reported to have hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activity in alloxan-
induced diabetic rats [22]

11 Astragalus membranaceus Root Polysaccharides [23], [24] regulate blood glucose level; has activity on diabetic
complications, inhibits lipid peroxidation [25]; Astragaloside IV [26] has inhibitory effect on
diabetic neuropathy in rats.

12 Bauhinia candicans All Decreases blood glucose in alloxan treated rats [27]; Extracts increase the peripheral
metabolism of glucose in diabetic induced rabbits [28]

13 Bauhinia forficata Leaf Leaves contain kaempferitrin[29], kaempferol-3, 7-O-(alpha)- dirhamnoside [30] that lowers
blood glucose and stimulates glucose [31] uptake by muscles

14 Bauhinia purpurea Leaf, stem Hypoglycemic activity ascribed to flavonoids, which inhibit cyclooxygenase and promotes -
cell regeneration, besides having Insulin secretary property [32]

15 Bauhinia variegata Flower, leaf Extracts (proteins) stimulate the release of insulin [33], [34]

16 Butea monosperma Leaf, bark Ethanolic extract significantly reduced blood glucose, serum cholesterol and improved HDL-
cholesterol [35], [36]

17 Caesalpinia bonducella Seed Caesalpin, bonducellin, and amino acids associated with hypoplycemic activity [37], [38],
[39]

18 Caesalpinia sappan Leaf, root Caesalpin P, sappanchalcone, 3- deoxysappanone, brazilin and protosappanin A inhibit aldose
reductase [40], [41]

19 Cajanus cajan Seed, leaves The seeds and leaves frequently used to treat patients with diabetes; have hypoglycemic
activity in mice [42], [43]

20 Cassia alata Leaf Extracts reported to have Antidiabetic activity in rats [44], [45]

21 Cassia auriculata Seed, leaf, flower Has anti hyperglycemic activity in alloxan [46], [47] and reduces blood sugar level in
Streptozotocin diabetic [48] rats. Flavonoids and phenolic acids [49] have antidiabetic activity
[50]

22 Ceratonia siliqua Seed Used traditionally to treat diabetes in Israel [51]

23 Dolichos lablab Seed Protein concentrates from seeds are hypocholesterolemic in vivo [52]

24 Erythrina indica Root, stem bark Oleanolic acid [53] from stem bark, lowers blood glucose in normal and diabetic mice and
inhibits
-amylase

25 Galega officinalis Leaf, seed Galegin reduces blood glucose in alloxan treated rats [54], [55]

26 Glycine max Seed D-pinitol [56] lowers blood glucose and is a major component in soya leaves; also activates -
cell activity in streptozotocin treated rats [57], [58]
164 Current Nutrition & Food Science, 2010, Vol. 6, No. 3 Permender et al.

Table 1. contd…..

S. No. Species Part Used Comments About Activity

27 Glycyrrhiza glabra Root Hydrophobic flavonoids in licorice decrease blood glucose and abdominal fat. These effects
may be mediated via peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-
[59]

28 Indigofera arrecta Leaf Traditionally used to treat diabetes in Ghana but extracts did not have hypoglycemic activity
in non-diabetic humans and showed some overt toxicity by lowering the immune status [60]

29 Indigofera mysorensis All Extracts have Insulin sensitizing property [61]

30 Lathyrus japonicus Seed Active compounds responsible for activity are lathyrine, Lglutamyl- L-lathyrine [31]

31 Leucaena leucocephala Leaf, seed Polysaccharides derived from Leucaena leucocephala reduces glucose levels [62]

32 Lupinus albus Seed Extracts lower blood glucose in alloxan-treated rats [63], mice [64]. It also have insulinotropic
action on isolated pancreatic islets [65]

33 Lupinus termis Seed Extracts decrease blood levels of glucose, urea, creatinine, and bilirubin in alloxan-treated rats
[66]

34 Medicago sativa All Decreases levels of blood glucose [67] in diabetic rats [68], It also have insulin-releasing and
insulin-like activity [69]. The extracts modulate carbohydrate metabolism in type II diabetic
rats [70]

35 Mimosa pudica All Extracts with mimosine cited as having hypoglycemic activity [71]

36 Mucuna pruriens Fruit, seeds Extracts decrease glucose and total cholesterol level in albino rats [72]. Increase in peripheral
utilization of glucose and release of insulin in a way that differs from insulin [73]. The
oligocyclitols present in seeds have antiglycaemic effect [74]

37 Mucuna prurita Fruit Extracts decrease blood glucose level in alloxan-treated rats [75]

38 Parkia speciosa Stigmast-4-en-3-one from pods lowers blood glucose in alloxan treated rats [76]

39 Phaseolus coccineus Seed Active compound gluckinin; a glycoprotein from seeds inhibits
-amylase [77]

40 Phaseolus multiflorus Seed The insulinoides acts by inhibiting
–amylase [78]

41 Phaseolus mungo Seed Acts by significantly increasing the activities of glycogen phosphorylase, hexokinase,
fructose-1,6-diphosphatase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and isocitrate dehydrogenase
enzymes in diabetic rats [79]

42 Phaseolus vulgaris Seed, pods Inhibition of
-amylase [80], [81] from kidney beans reduces blood glucose in rats; aqueous
extract of pods significantly increase the activity of gluconeogenic enzymes in the diabetic
liver [82]

43 Pisum sativum Seed Saponins decrease blood glucose level but can be lost during food processing [83]

44 Pongamia pinnata Flower A significant decrease in the level of blood glucose and glucose-6-phosphatase activity and a
significant increase in the plasma insulin level and hexokinase activity in alloxan diabetic rats
[84], [85]

45 Pterocarpus marsupium Wood, bark Extracts with kinotanic acid associated with antidiabetic activity in alloxan-induced diabetic
rats [86], [87], have Insulin like properties. Phenolic components (marsupsin and
pterostilbene) significantly lowered the blood glucose level of hyperglycemic rats [88].

46 Pterocarpus santalinus Seed, wood, bark Epicatechin [89] and pterostilbene [90] have antidiabetic activity

47 Pueraria lobata Root, Flower Puerarin, [91] an isoflavone, has been associated with lowering of blood glucose;
Tectorigenin and kaikasaponin III alleviate STZ-induced toxicity and have hypoglycemic
activity in rats [92], [93]

48 Securigera securidacea Seed Extract containing flavonoids reduces blood glucose levels in alloxan-treated mice [94] and
rats [95]

49 Tamarindus indica Seed Aqueous extracts of seeds decrease blood glucose in STZ-treated rats [96], [97]
Antidiabetic Potential of Fabaceae Family: An Overview Current Nutrition & Food Science, 2010, Vol. 6, No. 3 165

Table 1. contd…..

S. No. Species Part Used Comments About Activity

50 Tephrosia purpurea Root, seed The extract containing Lupeol stimulates insulin secretion from pancreatic
– cells, which
enhances glucose utilization by peripheral tissues of diabetic rats. There is increase in
hexokinase activity and decrease in glucose-6-phosphatase activity in diabetic rats [98]

51 Teramnus labialis All Mixture of coumarins including fraxidin, isolated from aerial material show hypoglycemic
activity [99]

52 Tetrapleura tetraptera Fruit Decreases blood glucose in STZ treated rats and inhibits the onset of Type II diabetes mellitus
[100]

53 Trifolium alexandrinum Flower, seed Extracts alleviate hyperglycemia in STZ-diabetic rats [101], [102]

54 Trigonella Seed, leaf The amino acid 4-hydroxyisoleucine [104] is associated with antidiabetic effects. [103] The
foenumgraecum saponins and fibers exert antidiabetic effects mediated through inhibition of carbohydrate
digestion and absorption, and enhancement of peripheral insulin action [105]. The in vivo
hypoglycaemic effect of seed extract is mediated by the activation of an insulin signaling
pathway [106]

Traditional Uses astringent, pectoral, rejuvenant, and tonic. The siris tree is a
folk remedy for boils, cough, eye ailments, flu, and lung ail-
The Sanskrit word ‘Khadira’ literally means which alle-
ments. The seed oil is used for leprosy, the powdered seed to
viates the diseases and stabilizes the body. The great sage
scrofulous swellings. Indians use the flowers for spermator-
Caraka has categorized it as udarka prasamana anti urticarial
rhea. Albizia lebbeck is also psychoactive.
and kusthaghna anti dermatosis. Acarya Vagbhata has highly
praised it as the drug of choice for the treatment of numerous
skin diseases. Susruta has described the plant to be effective Chemical Constituents
as an anti obesity herb. The bark and roots of khair are used The seeds & pods contain crude protein, crude fat, crude
in treating sore mouth, body pains, gravel, bronchial asthma fiber, carbohydrates. The foliage contains 28.87% protein,
and indigestion. The bark is especially useful as astringent, 5.42% crude fat, 31.75% crude fiber, 23.33% carbohydrates.
and a cure in cough, diarrhea and indigestion, cancer, piles,
sore throat, ulceration, eczema and certain forms of leprosy. Safety Profile
It is also used in the diseases like worms, wounds, fever,
edema, pruritis, diabetes, obesity, blood disorders, asthma The plant is very well tolerated in nominal doses.
and anemia etc.
• Arachis hypogaea
Chemical Constituents Commonly known as Earth nut, goober pea, groundnut,
The main chemical constituents are catechins, catechu- mani, monkey nut, Peanut, runner peanut, Spanish peanut,
tannic acids, phlobatinin, gummy matter, quercitrin, pyro- Virginia peanut is an annual herbaceous plant native to South
catechin, phloroglucin, protocatechuic acid and quercitin. America, Mexico and Central America.
The wood contains taxifolin, epicatechin, catechin, dicate-
chin, gallochin, gossypetin, kaempferol & atzelchin. The Chemical Constituents
seed fatty acids contained epoxy acids. Groundnut is a valuable source of proteins and of E, K
and B vitamins. Groundnut cakes, formed after the oil is ex-
Safety Profile tracted, are a high protein animal feed. Peanuts contain high
The plant is very well tolerated but prolonged treatment concentrations of antioxidant polyphenols, primarily
with catechin can induce several adverse reactions, mainly compound called p-coumaric acids which have very well
immunomediated such as hemolysis, acute renal failure and established antioxidant activity. Peanuts are a significant
skin rashes. source of resveratrol, a chemical studied for potential anti-
aging effects and also associated with reduced cardiovascular
• Albizia lebbek disease and reduced cancer risk. They are also a source of
coenzyme Q10. Peanuts also help to accelerate the growth of
Commonly known as lebbek tree, siris tree, East Indian male and female hormones.
walnut, kokko and acacia amarilla is a deciduous tree native
to India, sub-tropical Africa, Asia, and northern Australia. Safety Profile

Traditional Uses Frequent nut consumption is associated with a reduced

risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Ran-
The tree is used in folk remedies for abdominal tumors, domized controlled trials of patients with type 2 diabetes
in bolmes, enemas, ghees or powders. It is reported to be have confirmed the beneficial effects of nuts on blood lipids
166 Current Nutrition & Food Science, 2010, Vol. 6, No. 3 Permender et al.

also seen in nondiabetic subjects. Although used as food Traditional Uses

ingredient peanuts in some people cause mild to severe
The plant has been described as hypoglycemic, a blood
allergic reactions. For people with peanut allergy, exposure
purifier and a diuretic, and has been used for over 60 years to
can cause fatal anaphylactic shock.
balance blood sugar levels in diabetics. It is considered a
good blood cleanser, and a leaf decoction is used internally
• Astragalus membranaceus and externally for elephantiasis and snakebite, as well as
Commonly known as membranous milk-vetch root, other skin problems. It is a highly regarded treatment for
huang qi is indigenous to the northern and eastern parts of diabetes, even being called "vegetable insulin." As such, it is
China and Mongolia. used in South America to help balance blood sugar levels
and to alleviate other symptoms of diabetes such as polyuria,
Traditional Uses kidney disorders, and other urinary problems.
In traditional Chinese medicine it is used for speed Chemical Constituents
healing and treat diabetes. In western herbal medicine,
Astragalus is primarily considered a tonic for enhancing The main plant chemicals in pata de vaca include as-
metabolism and digestion and is consumed as a tea or soup tragalin, bauhinoside, beta-sitosterol, flavonols, flavonoids,
made from the roots of the plant, often in combination with glycosides, guanidine, heteroglycosides, kaempferitrin, or-
other medicinal herbs. Astragalus also has antibacterial, anti- ganic acids, quercitrosides, rhamnose, and saponins. The
inflammatory, and diuretic properties. It is also traditionally leaves do contain a well-known antibacterial chemical called
used to strengthen the immune system and in the healing of astragalin as well as flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides.
wounds and injuries. Astragalus also has immunomodulating The leaves are also a good source of a flavonoid called
and immunorestorative effects by increasing the production kaempferitrin which has been reported to help repair kidney
of interferon and to activate immune system such as cell damage, and to have a diuretic effect.
macrophages.
Safety Profile
Chemical Constituents The plant is very well tolerated but Diabetics should seek
The main constituents of Astragalus membranaceus the advice and supervision of a qualified health care practi-
include polysaccharides, saponins, flavonoids, amino acids, tioner while using the plant as blood sugar levels will need to
and trace elements. Polysaccharides A, B, and C have been be monitored carefully and medications may need adjust-
identified as glucans, and polysaccharide D as a ments, since the plant potentiates antidiabetic medications
heteropolysaccharide. Astragalus root contains a series of and insulin drugs.
cycloartane triterpene glycosides denoted astragalosides I-
VII. Phytosterols, a volatile oil, and amino acids, including • Bauhinia purpurea
gamma-aminobutyric acid and L-canavanine, have been
Commonly known as butterfly tree, mountain ebony,
isolated from the root. Zinc, iron, copper, magnesium,
purple orchid-tree is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree
manganese, calcium, potassium, sodium, cobalt, rubidium,
native to South China and southeastern Asia.
molybdenum, chromium, vanadium, tin, and silver have also
been found in the root of Astragalus, as well as traces of
tantalum, hafnium, europium, and thorium. Organic Traditional Uses
compounds identified in the roots include choline, betaine, The plant is reported to have antimalarial, antimycobacte-
gluconic acid, and - sitosterols, as well as essential oil, rial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic Activities.
linoleic acid,
-aminobutyric acid, bitter compounds, and
asparagine. Chemical Constituents

Safety Profile The main chemical constituents include flavanones, di-

hydrodibenzoxepins, dihydrobenzofurans.
The recommended dose of Astragalus varies from 1 - 25
g per day. Higher doses may suppress the immune system. • Butea monosperma
Astragalus may increase the risk of bleeding. Astragalus is
not recommended for people with acute inflammation or Commonly known as palash, dhak, flame of the forest,
acute illness with fever. It may increase growth hormone bastard teak or parrot tree is a sacred tree known as the
levels. It is not recommended during pregnancy or breast- treasurer of Gods native to tropical southern Asia.
feeding due to harmful effects seen in animals. However, at
recommended doses Astragalus has no serious side effects Traditional Uses
and can generally be used safely.
The phenolic constituent isolated from the bark has po-
tential anti-asthmatic activity in estrogenic mice. Aqueous
• Bauhinia candicans extract of the flowers have significant anti-implantation ac-
Commonly known as Pata de vaca, casco de vaca is a tivity. The fresh juice is applied to ulcers and for congested
small tree that is native to the rainforests and tropical parts of and septic sore throats. The gum is a powerful astringent
Peru, Brazil. The plant is also found in the tropical zones of given internally for diarrhea and dysentery, phthisis and
world. hemorrhage from stomach and the bladder, in leucorrhoa,
Antidiabetic Potential of Fabaceae Family: An Overview Current Nutrition & Food Science, 2010, Vol. 6, No. 3 167

ringworm. The bark is reported to possess astringent bitter, Chemical Constituents

pungent, alliterative, aphrodisiac and anthelmintic properties.
The woody part contains brasilin and brasilein and an es-
The decoction is useful in cold, cough, fever and menstrual
sential oil consisting of D -
- phellandrene, ocimene, tannin,
disorders. Roots are useful in elephantiasis and in curing
phenolic compounds, gallic acid and saponin. A new com-
night blindness and other eyesight defects. Leaves have as-
tringent, tonic, diuretic and aphrodisiac properties. They are pound homoisoflavan, 7, 3, 4-trihydroxy-3-benzyl-2H-
chromene is also reported from heartwood.
also used to cure boils, pimples and tumors hemorrhoids and
piles. Hot alcoholic extract of the seeds showed significant
anti-implantation and anti-ovulatory activity in roots and Safety Profile
rabbits respectively. Butrin and isobutrin has proved to have The plant is usually safe; however it is to be used with
antihepatotoxic activity. caution in pregnancy.

Chemical Constituents • Cajanus cajan

The main constituent of the flower is butrin, butein and Commonly known as red gram, tur, arhar, dahl, catjang,
butin. It also contains flavonoids and steroids. Other than kachang, pigeon pea is an important grain legume crop na-
these in flowers, coreopsin, isocoreopsin, sulphurein glyco- tive to Indian Subcontinent.
side and other two with monospermoside and isomonosper-
moside structures are also present. Roots contain glucose, Traditional Uses
glycine, glucosides and aromatic compounds. Tetramers of
leucocynidin are isolated from gum and stem bark. The It diminishes the swelling of internal organs like
bright colour of the flower is attributed to the presence of stomach, liver, intestines etc. The leaves infusion is used for
chakones and aurones. anemia, hepatitis, diabetes, urinary infections, coughs, fe-
vers, ulcers and yellow fever. The flowers infusion is used
for dysentery, and menstrual disorders; and the seeds are
• Caesalpinia bonducella
infused to use as a diuretic.
Commonly known as bonduc fruit, fever nut, putikaranja
is a tropical tree native to Indian subcontinent. Chemical Constituents
The main chemical constituents include 2-0-methylca-
Traditional Uses janone, 2-hydroxygenistein, 5, 7, 2’-trihydroxyisoflavone,
The nuts have been used as an anti-periodic for a long alpha-amyrin, beta-amryin, beta-sitosterol, cajaflavanone,
time. Pharmacological trials have revealed diuretic and anti- cajaisoflavone, cajanin, cajanone, cajaquinone, concajanin,
pyretic activity of the nuts besides adaptogenic, antimicro- ferreirin, genistein, isogenistein-7-0-glucoside, lupeol, phen-
bial and muscle contractile activity. It also possesses anti- ylalanine and stigmasterol. It also contains proteins, carbo-
inflammatory and analgesic property. hydrates, Vitamins A & B1. The seed oil contains linolenic
acid, linoleic, oleic and saturated fatty acids. Recently two
Chemical Constituents prenylated stilbenes longistylin A and C have been reported
to have antiplasmodial activity and in-vitro cytotoxic activity.
The main chemical constituents include furanoditerpenes,
caesalpin and caesalpin F, neocaesalpins A, B, C and D be- Safety Profile
sides bonducellin and amino acids.
So far no toxicity has been reported for Cajanus.
Safety Profile
• Cassia auriculata
No toxic effect has been so far reported.
Commonly known as ranawara, avaram, tarwar, avartaki
• Caesalpinia sappan is a legume native to India amd Sri Lanka. The root is used
in decoctions against fevers, diabetes, diseases of urinary
Commonly known as sapanwood, brezel wood, bukkum- system and constipation. The leaves have laxative properties.
wood, patamg is a legume found in tropical Southeast Asia. The dried flowers and flower buds are used as a substitute
for tea in case of diabetes patents. It is also believed to
Traditional Uses improve the complexion in women. The powdered seed is
also applied to the eye, in case of chronic purulent
It possesses medicinal abilities as an antioxidant,
conjunctivitis. In Africa the bark and seeds are said to give
antibacterial and anti-coagulant agent. It is also used to pro-
relief in rheumatism, eye diseases, gonorrhea, diabetes and
mote blood circulation and remove blood stasis, and to cause
gout. This plant contains a cardiac glucoside sennapicrin and
subsidence of swelling and relieve pain. It also used in
sap, leaves and bark yield anthraquinones, tannins.
atomic diarrhea, dysentery. The roots, stems, and seeds are
used as sedatives and vulnerary. The leaves are prescribed
for sapraemia. The extract is indicated in amenorrhea, dys- Safety Profile
menorrhea, blood stasis after delivery; pricking pain in the So far no toxicity has been reported for Cassia auricu-
chest and abdomen, traumatic swelling and pain. lata.
168 Current Nutrition & Food Science, 2010, Vol. 6, No. 3 Permender et al.

• Galega officinalis saturated fatty acids may increase the likelihood of develop-
ing breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Existing cancer
Commonly known as goat's rue, French lilac, Italian fitch
patients should avoid foods rich in soy because they can ac-
or professor-weed is an herbaceous plant native to the south-
celerate the growth of tumours. Allergy to soy is said to be
ern Europe and western Asia.
common and in rare cases true anaphylaxis may occur.
Traditional Uses
• Glycyrrhiza glabra
Galega officinalis has been known since the middle ages
Commonly known as mulethi, licorice, Spanish licorice,
for relieving the symptoms of diabetes. Goat's rue is also
Russian licorice, sweet wood is native to the Mediterranean
used in the treatment of plague, fevers and infectious dis-
eases. Leaves and flowering tops are diaphoretic, diuretic, and certain areas of Asia.
galactogogue and hypoglycaemic. Alcoholic extracts of
Goat's Rue have antibacterial activity. Traditional Uses
Powdered liquorice root is an effective expectorant, and
Chemical Constituents has been used for this purpose in Ayurvedic medicine. It is
The plant contains galegine, an alkaloid that strongly re- also used in tooth powders. Modern cough syrups often
duces blood sugar levels which make it useful in the treat- include liquorice extract as an ingredient. Additionally,
ment of diabetes. It also contains the guanidine & biguanides, liquorice may be useful in conventional and naturopathic
which are chemically derivatised to oral hypoglycemic agents medicine for both mouth ulcers and peptic ulcers. Liquorice
like metformin, phenformin. It also contains flavonoids and is also a mild laxative http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laxative
saponins. and may be used as a topical antiviral agent for shingles,
ophthalmic, oral or genital herpes. Consuming licorice can
• Glycine max prevent hyperkalemia.
Commonly known as soybean, soyabean is a legume The disabling of enzymes in the gut by glycyrrhizinic
native to East Asia. It is an annual plant that has been used in acid and glycyrrhetinic acid also causes increased mucus and
China for 5,000 years as a food and a component of drugs. decreased acid secretion. It also inhibits H. pylori and hence
is used as an aid for healing stomach and duodenal ulcers,
Traditional Uses and in moderate amounts may soothe an upset stomach. It
can also be used for auto-immune conditions including
Unsaturated fatty acids eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and
lupus, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis and animal dander
docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) inhibit blood clotting. The
isoflavones genistein and daidzein are considered by some allergies. Licorice constituents also exhibit steroid like anti-
nutritionists and physicians to be useful in the prevention of inflammatory activity, similar to the action of hydrocorti-
cancer and by others to be carcinogenic and endocrine dis- sone.
ruptive. Isoflavones are related to the antioxidant property.
Genistein acts as an oxidant, as well as it blocks formation of Chemical Constituents
new blood vessels (antiangiogenic effects). Some studies show The liquorice contains a number of components like
Genistein to act as inhibitor of the activity of substances in triterpene saponins, flavonoids, polysaccharides, pectins,
the body that regulate cell division and cell survival.
simple sugars, amino acids, mineral salts, and various other
FDA has approved soybean as an official cholesterol- substances. Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid compound, accounts
lowering food, along with other heart and health benefits. It for the sweet taste of licorice root.
significantly decreases serum cholesterol, LDL and triglyc-
erides. Safety Profile

Chemical Constituents Excessive consumption of liquorice or liquorice candy is

known to be toxic to the liver and cardiovascular system and
Soybeans are considered to be a rich source of proteins, may produce hypertension and oedema. The European
vitamins, and minerals. It mainly contains oil and proteins Commission in 2008 report suggested that “people should
besides carbohydrates. The principal soluble carbohydrates, not consume any more than 100mg of glycyrrhizinic acid a
saccarides of mature soybeans are the disaccharide sucrose,
day, because it can raise blood pressure or cause muscle
the trisaccharide raffinose and the tetrasaccharide stachyose.
weakness, chronic fatigue, headaches or swelling and lower
The insoluble carbohydrates in soybeans consist of the com-
plex polysaccharides cellulose, hemicellulose and pectin. testosterone levels in men.
The major unsaturated fatty acids in soybean oil are Licorice cannot be recommended during pregnancy and
lonolenic acid, linoleic acid, and oleic acid. It also contains breast-feeding due to possible alterations of hormone levels
the saturated fatty acids stearic acid and palmitic acid. and the possibility of premature labor. Prescription drugs
should be taken one hour before licorice or two hours after
Safety Profile licorice because licorice may increase the absorption of
Phytoestrogens are reported to promote breast cancer cell many drugs. Increased absorption may increase the activities
growth in animals; therefore a high consumption of polyun- and side effects of these drugs.
Antidiabetic Potential of Fabaceae Family: An Overview Current Nutrition & Food Science, 2010, Vol. 6, No. 3 169

• Medicago sativa of leaves. Crocetin dimethyl ester is present in the plant. The
roots contain tannins. The seeds of the plant contain muci-
Commonly known as alfalfa, lucerne and lucerne grass is
lage composed of d-xylose and d-glucuronic acid. The plant
a legume native to Southeast Asia.
also contains tubulin which shows the ability to bind colchi-
cine with its sulfhydryl groups. A new class of phytohor-
Traditional Uses mones-turgorines is also present in the plant. These periodic
In early Chinese medicines, physicians used young leaf movement factors are derivatives of 4-O-(-D- glu-
alfalfa leaves to treat disorders related to the digestive tract copyranosyl-6-sulphate) gallic acid.
and the kidneys. Ayurvedic physicians used the leaves for
treating poor digestion. The leaves cause diuresis and are Safety Profile
useful in the treatment of kidney, bladder, and prostate dis-
LD50 of 50% ethanol extract was found to be more than
orders. Leaf preparations have been touted for their anti-
1000mg/kg (intraperitoneally) in albino rats.
arthritic and anti-diabetic activity, for treatment of dyspepsia,
and as an anti-asthmatic. Today it is used in homeopathic
medicines worldwide for treating anemia, diabetes, to extend • Mucuna pruriens
appetite and contribute towards weight gain, as an estrogen Commonly known as velvet bean, cowitch, cowhage,
replacement in order to increase breast milk and to mitigate magic bean, itchy bean, atmagupta, nescafe, sea bean, deer
premenstrual syndrome and a dietary supplement. The most eye is a climbing legume native to southern China and east-
promising value for alfalfa is in the area of cholesterol control. ern India.

Chemical Constituents Traditional Uses

Alfalfa is a rich source of proteins, calcium, minerals and A clinical study confirmed the efficacy of the seeds in the
vitamins A, B group, C, D, E & K. It also contains organic management of Parkinson’s disease by virtue of their L-
acids like citrate, malate, malonate, succinate, fumarate, lac- Dopa content. Mucuna pruriens recognized as an aphrodisiac
tate, and benzoate; carbohydrates like sucrose, D-pinitol, in Ayurveda, has been shown to increase testosterone levels,
glucose, ononitol, D-chiro-lnositol, myo-Inositol, fructose, leading to deposition of protein in the muscles and increased
maltose,
,
–Trehalose and amino acids like asparagines, muscle mass and strength. The extract is also known to en-
glutamate, alanine,
-aminobutyrate, praline, aspartate, hance mental alertness, improve coordination and has anti-
valine, glycine, leucine, lysine, threonine, isoleucine, glu- oxidant properties. It is used in traditional healthcare for ab-
tamine, phenylalanine, arginine, tryptophane, tyrosine, - dominal discomfort, cholera, diabetes, infertility, leucor-
Alanine, serine. rhoea, snake & scorpion bite, toothache and worm infection.

Safety Profile Chemical Constituents

A case of reversible asymptomatic pancytopenia with The plant contains L-Dopa and hallucinogenic tryp-
splenomegaly has been reported in a man who ingested up to tamines and antinutritional factors such as phenols and tan-
160 g of ground alfalfa seeds daily as part of a cholesterol- nins. Mucuna pruriens also contains crude protein, lipid,
reducing diet. Alfalfa seeds and sprouts can be contaminated dietary fibres and carbohydrates. In addition to levodopa,
with such pathogens as Salmonella enterica and Escherichia Mucuna also contains serotonin (5-HT), 5- HTP, nicotine, N,
coli. The FDA had issued an advisory indicating that chil- N-DMT (dimethyltryptamine), 5- MeO-DMT and -
dren, the elderly and people with compromised immune sys- carboline. The seeds contain bioactive alkaloids mucunine,
tems should avoid eating alfalfa sprouts. mucunadine, mucuadinine, pruriendine besides - sitosterol,
glutathione, lacithin, coumarins, cardenolides, venolic and
• Mimosa pudica gallic acids.
Commonly known as lajjalu, lajwanti, chui- mui, lozzaboti
is a creeping annual or perennial herb native to South Safety Profile
America and Central America but grows well in all tropics. High doses of mucuna pruriens have side effects that in-
clude overstimulation, increased body temperature, and rest-
Traditional Uses lessness. Another mucuna pruriens side effect on very high
dosages is insomnia.
A decoction of the root of the plant is considered useful
in gravel and other urinary complaints. A paste of the leaves
is applied to glandular swellings; the juice of the leaves is • Phaseolus vulgaris
used in dressings for sinus and also as an application for Commonly known as bean, common bean, caraota,
sores and piles. The whole plant is crushed and used against French bean, kidney bean, green bean, snap bean, wax bean
itching; it also relieves scabies patches. A decoction of the is an herbaceous plant native to temperate regions.
root is taken to relieve asthma and diarrhea.
Traditional Uses
Chemical Constituents
Beans are said to be used for acne, bladder, burns, car-
Mimosa pudica contains a toxic alkaloid, mimosine. An
diac, carminative, depurative, diabetes, diarrhea, diuretic,
adrenaline-like substance has been identified in the extracts
170 Current Nutrition & Food Science, 2010, Vol. 6, No. 3 Permender et al.

dropsy, dysentery, eczema, emolient, hiccups, itch, kidney, sidered alexeteric, anthelmintic, apertif, and stomachic, for
resolvent, rheumatism, sciatica, and tenesmus. The green inflammation, piles and skin diseases; the leaves, anthelmin-
pods are mildly diuretic and contain a substance that reduces tic, digestive, and laxative, for inflammations, piles and
the blood sugar level. The dried mature pod is used in the wounds; the flowers for biliousness and diabetes; the fruit
treatment of diabetes. The seed is diuretic, hypoglycaemic and seed for keratitis, piles, urinary discharges, and diseases
and hypotensive. Ground into flour, it is used externally in of the brain, eye, head, and skin, the oil for biliousness, eye
the treatment of ulcers. The seed is also used in the treatment ailments, itch, leucoderma, rheumatism, skin diseases,
of cancer of the blood. When bruised and boiled with garlic worms, and wounds. Yunani use the ash to strengthen the
they have cured intractable coughs. The root is dangerously teeth, the seed, carminative and depurative, for chest com-
narcotic. A homeopathic remedy is made from the entire plaints, chronic fevers, earache, hydrocele, and lumbago; the
fresh herb. It is used in the treatment of rheumatism and ar- oil, styptic and vermifuge, for fever, hepatalgia, leprosy,
thritis, plus disorders of the urinary tract. lumbago, piles, scabies, and ulcers.

Chemical Constituents Chemical Constituents

Beans are a high nutritive, relatively low-cost protein It is reported to contain alkaloids demethoxy-kanugin,
food. Green snap beans contain proteins, fat, and carbohy- gamatay, glabrin, glabrosaponin, kaempferol, kanjone,
drate. The vitamin contents of the dried beans are: thiamine, kanugin, karangin, neoglabrin, pinnatin, pongamol, pon-
riboflavin, nicotinic acid, and ascorbic acid. Dried beans also gapin, quercitin, saponin, -sitosterol, and tannin. Air-dry
contain Na, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, P, S and Cl. Beans also con- kernels have fatty oil, proteins, starch, and crude fibers. The
tain I, Mn and arsenic to a smaller extent. Leaves contain fatty acids commonly found are palmitic acid, stearic acid,
carotene, thiamine, riboflavin, nicotinic acid, folic acid, and arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, oleic acid, lino-
pantothenic acid. They also contain a glycoside quercetin leic acid and eicosenoic acid.
and allantoin.
Safety Profile
Safety Profile
The plant is safe for human consumption if taken in nor-
The roots are reported to cause giddiness in human be- mal doses.
ings and animals. Seeds are reported to contain trypsin and
chymotrypsin inhibitors. Eating only a few raw beans of • Pterocarpus marsupium
Phaseolus vulgaris may led to development of symptoms of
poisoning, notably sickness and diarrhea due to Phasin, a Commonly known as Vijaysar, Indian kino tree, Malabar
toxic albumin & the lectin phytohaemagglutinin which are kino, kino, Benga, Bijiayasal, venkai is a decidous tree na-
easily destroyed by cooking. tive to India, Nepal and Sri Lanka.

• Pongamia pinnata Traditional Uses

Commonly known as Indian beech tree, dithodi, karanj, Parts of the Indian Kino (heart wood, leaves and flowers)
honge tree, Pongam tree, panigrahi is a medium sized have long been used for their medicinal properties in
evergreen tree native to Indomalaysia. Ayurveda. The heart wood is used as an astringent and in the
treatment of inflammation and diabetes. The heart wood is
astringent, bitter acrid, anti inflammatory, anthelmintic, ano-
Traditional Uses
dyne. It is considered as magical for Diabities. It turns the
The fruits and sprouts are used in folk remedies for ab- water blue as soon as it comes in contact with the water. It is
dominal tumors in India, the seeds for keloid tumors in Sri good for elephantiasis, leucoderma, diarrhoea, dysentary,
Lanka, and a powder derived from the plant for tumors in rectalgia, cough and greyness of hair. The heartwood is as-
Vietnam. In sanskritic India, seeds were used for skin ail- tringent, bitter acrid, anti inflammatory, anthelmintic and
ments. Today the oil is used as a liniment for rheumatism. anodyne. It is considered as magical for Diabetes. It turns the
Leaves are active against Micrococcus; their juice is used for water blue as soon as it comes in contact with the water. It is
colds, coughs, diarrhea, dyspepsia, flatulence, gonorrhea, good for elephantiasis, leucoderma, diarrhoea, dysentery,
and leprosy. Roots are used for cleaning gums, teeth, and rectalgia, cough and greyness of hair. The bark is used as an
ulcers. Bark is used internally for bleeding piles. Juices from astringent and in toothache. The bruised leaves are consid-
the plant, as well as the oil, are antiseptic. It is said to be an ered useful as an external application for boils, sores and
excellent remedy for itch, herpes, and pityriasis versicolor. skin diseases.
Powdered seeds are valued as a febrifuge, tonic and in bron-
chitis and whooping cough. Flowers are used for diabetes. Chemical Constituents
Bark has been used for beriberi. Juice of the root is used for
cleansing foul ulcers and closing fistulous sores. Young Pterocarpus marsupium is a rich source of phenolic
shoots have been recommended for rheumatism. Ayurvedic compounds like stilbene, pterostilbene, catechin and epicate-
medicine described the root and bark as alexipharmic, an- chin. The flavanoids includes Pseudobaptigenein, liquiriti-
thelmintic, and useful in abdominal enlargement, ascites, genin, isoliquiritigenin, garbanzol, 5-deoxykaempferol, chal-
biliousness, diseases of the eye, skin, and vagina, itch, piles, cone, dihydrochalcone, pterosupin; the isoflavonoid glycols
splenomegaly, tumors, ulcers, and wounds; the sprouts, con- includes marsupol, dihydroxy-
- methylhydrobenzoin and
aromatic aldehyde p-hydroxybenzaldehyde. It also contains
Antidiabetic Potential of Fabaceae Family: An Overview Current Nutrition & Food Science, 2010, Vol. 6, No. 3 171

sesquiterpene alcohols
- eodesmol, pterocarpols A & B, tigo, Wei syndrome thirst, headache, and stiff neck with pain
propterol and triterpene alcohol erythrodiol-3-monoacetate. due to high blood pressure. It is also recommended for aller-
An isoaurone C-glucoside, Pterocarposide the first com- gies, migraine headaches, inadequate measles eruptions in
pound of this type has been isolated from an aqueous extract children, and diarrhea. It is also used in modern Chinese
of the heartwood of Pterocarpus marsupium. medicine as a treatment for angina pectoris. It is used for
fevers caused by heat in colds and influenza and for stiff
Safety Profile neck and shoulders. The flowers have been shown to be ef-
fective in lessening the desire for alcohol and thus are used
There are no reports of adverse effects for this herb. No in the treatment of alcoholism. The Harvard Medical School
drugs interactions are reported for this herb, but it may inter- is studying kudzu as a possible way to treat alcoholic crav-
act with antihyperglycemic or blood glucose lowering drugs. ings, by turning an extracted compound from the herb into a
medical drug.
• Pterocarpus santalinus
Research in mice models suggests that Kudzu is benefi-
Commonly known as red sandal wood, red saunders, ruby cial for control of some post-menopausal symptoms such as
wood, Rakta chandana is a large deciduous tree native to India. hypertension and diabetes type II.

Traditional Uses Chemical Constituents

It is an astringent and a cooling agent and is used in sev- Kudzu contains a number of useful isoflavones, including
eral skincare preparations. It is used in the treatment of pim- diadzein an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent;
ples, acne, wrinkles etc. It is also used internally in chronic diadzin a cancer preventive and genistein an antileukamic
bronchitis, gonorrhoea and gleet, chronic cystitis with ben- agent. Kudzu is a unique source of the isoflavone puerarin.
zoic and boric acids. Much used as a perfume for different
purposes. The wood is used for making fancy articles and is Safety Profile
much carved. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine as an
anti-septic, wound healing agent and anti-acne treatment. It Kudzu has been used as a medicinal herb for centuries
has been used in Ayurvedic medicine as an anti-septic, without any reported toxic side effects. However, the safety
wound healing agent and anti-acne treatment. A paste of the profile of the plant and its extracts has yet to be defined
wood is used as a cooling external application for inflamma- through systematic pharmacologic screens. The 1985 Chi-
tions and headache. A decoction of fruit is used as an astrin- nese Pharmacopoeia suggests 9-15 grams of kudzu root per
gent tonic in chronic dysentery. day. At the dosages recommended above, there have been no
reports of kudzu toxicity in humans. Kudzu should not be
Chemical Constituents taken by pregnant and lactating women. In traditional Chi-
nese practice, people who sweat too much or have cold in
The red wood yields a natural dye santalin. Wood also their stomach should avoid kudzu because it is given for
contains three other crystalline principles santal, Pterocarpin wind-heat illnesses.
and Homopterocarpin besides small quantity of tannin,
probably kino-tannic acid. Heart wood also possesses isofla- • Tamarindus indica
vone glucosidessavinin, calocedrin, triterpene, isoflavone
glucosides, lignan viz., savinin and calocedrin & triterpenes. Commonly known as Indian date, imli, asem, sampaloc,
tentuli, amli is an evergreen tropical tree native to Africa.
Safety Profile
Traditional Uses
According to Germany’s Commission E, sandalwood oil
should be taken at a dose of 1-1.5 grams daily in enteric- The pulp, leaves, and bark have medical applications. In
coated form for supportive treatment of urinary tract infec- the Philippines, the leaves have been traditionally used in
tions. It appears to be relatively safe, but it has not under- herbal tea for reducing malaria fever. Tamarind is used as an
gone comprehensive safety testing; in general, essential oil Ayurvedic medicine for gastric and/or digestion problems.
can have toxic and even fatal effects when taken in sufficient The fruits are eaten fresh and made into a refreshing drink
doses, especially by children. Allergic reactions caused by and the pulp is an important ingredient of Indian cuisine.
direct contact with sandalwood oil occur relatively fre- Fresh and dried fruits are used as a sour flavouring agent in
quently. Sandalwood oil should not be used by young chil- curries, fish, chutneys and sauces. They are sweet and sour,
dren, pregnant or nursing women, or people with severe liver cooling, carminative, digestive, laxative and antiscorbutic.
or kidney disease. The leaves bark and seeds are astringent. The tender leaves
and flowers are cooling and antibilious and are used in con-
• Pueraria lobata stipation, colic, cough, dyspepsia, fever, flatulence and uri-
nary infection. The fruit pulp or the leaves may be used in
Commonly known as Japanese arrowroot, kudzu vine, the form of a poultice for external application to inflamma-
kudzu, Ge-gen is a vine native to Japan and eastern China. tory swellings to relieve pain, and a poultice of the flowers is
useful in inflammatory affections of the conjunctiva. The
Traditional Uses ripe pulp of the fruit is considered as an effective laxative in
In traditional Chinese medicine, kudzu is considered one habitual constipation and enters into many Ayurvedic prepa-
of the 50 fundamental herbs. It is used to treat tinnitus, ver- rations, where it may be given for loss of appetite and nausea
172 Current Nutrition & Food Science, 2010, Vol. 6, No. 3 Permender et al.

and vomiting in pregnancy. An infusion of the leaves is used supplements that are believed to increase the risk of bleed-
as a gargle for aphthous ulcers and sore throats and for wash- ing. Multiple cases of bleeding have been reported with the
ing indolent ulcers. In other parts of the world the plant is use of Ginkgo biloba, and fewer cases with garlic and saw
equally regarded: in Nigeria, leaf extracts are used in guinea palmetto. Taking vasoconstrictors and tamarind together may
worm infection in Fiji, the fruit and leaves are taken orally cause a potential additive interaction.
for piles and in Tanzania, a decoction of dried leaves is given
for malaria. In Guatemala the dried fruit is taken as a febri- • Tephrosia purpurea
fuge, for urinary tract infections and infections of the skin
and mucosa, including ringworm and other fungal diseases. Commonly known as wild Indigo, sarphonk, sharpunkha,
The bark is used as a tonic and febrifuge and the ash ob- pliha satru is a weed native to India grows up to an elevation
tained by heating it with salt in an earthen pot is mixed with 1500 meters.
water and taken orally for colic and as a gargle or mouth
wash. In the Canary Islands the dried fruit is eaten as a chol- Traditional Uses
eretic. Tamarind seed xyloglucan is used as a thickener, sta- According to Ayurveda, plant is digestible, anthelmintic,
biliser, gelling agent and starch modifier for food, textile and alexiteric, antipyretic, alternative, cures diseases of liver,
toiletry use. spleen, heart, blood, tumours, ulcers, leprosy, asthma, poi-
soning etc. According to Unani system of medicine, root is
Chemical Constituents diuretic, allays thirst, enriches blood, cures diarrhea, useful
The seeds contains cardenolides and bufadienolides like in bronchitis, asthma, liver, spleen diseases, inflammations,
Uzarigenin -3-0-
- 0- xylopyranosyl-a- Lrhamnopyranoside boils and pimples; Leaves are tonic to intestines and a prom-
and scilliphaeosidin 3-0-
- D-glucopyranosyl- L-rhamnopyr- ising appetizer. Anti-dermatoses, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory
anoside; phytosterols and triterpenes like
-Sitosterol, cam- properties of Tephrosia are benevolent in cleansing and heal-
pesterol, stigmasterol and
-amyrin. Seeds also contain poly- ing of the wounds and ulcers. In edema, skin disorders, glan-
saccharides and sugars for eg arabinose, ribose, xylose, man- dular swellings like cervical adenitis and filariasis, the paste
nose, fructose, galactose, glucose, inositol, sucrose, maltose, of its root is applied on the affected parts. On traumatic
raffinose, xyloglucan and polyose. Pectin, glucose, mannose, wounds, the juice of its leaves works well. The root powder
maltose and arabinose are present in the fruit. Leaf contains is salutary for brushing the teeth. It quickly relieves the den-
flavones and flavonols like apigenin, vitexin, isovitexin, ori- tal pains and arrests bleeding. The seed-oil is applied exter-
entin. Organic and aminoacids like aspartic, glutamic, tar- nally in various skin diseases like scabies, eczema etc. Inter-
taric, citric, oxalic and succinic acids, serine, methionine, nally, Tephrosia imparts a stimulant action on the liver, is an
phenylalanine and others are present in the fruit and seeds appetizer and digestant as well as cholegouge, hence, is re-
and glyoxalic, oxaloacetic, oxalosuccinic and o-oxoglutaric warding in digestive disorders like anorexia, flatulence, ab-
acid in the leaf and seed. dominal pain, tumors, hemorrhoids, worms, liver and spleen
disorders. In piles, the roots work well, when given with
Tamarindus fruit also contains vitamins like ascorbic acid, buttermilk. The powder of whole plant is given with sugar
tocopherol, carotenes; minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and water in jaundice. In fevers due to vitiation of kapha and
magnesium, potassium, sodium, copper, iron, zinc, manga- pitta doshas, it is valuable. The pulp of its roots given with
nese; monoterpenoids and other volatiles like 2-acetyl furan, buttermilk reduces the enlarged liver and spleen very effec-
benzaldehyde, phenyl acetaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, 3 fur- tively. The decoction of its roots is given with marica pow-
fural, linalool, linalool oxides, geraniol, a-terpineol, tama- der, as an adjunct in diabetes. The roots are of great help in
rindineal. dysmenorrheal, syphilis and gonorrhea. Tephrosia renders a
The fatty acids namely palmitic, oleic acid, linoleic, ara- diuretic action alongwith its anti-microbial activity, hence, is
chidic, behenic, lignoceric, linolenic, and ecosa-tetraenoic beneficial in dysurea and urinary infections.
acid are present in the seed.
Chemical Constituents
Safety Profile Tephrosia is a rich source of flavonoids like tephrosin,
Tamarind is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) in the pongaglabol, and semiglabrin. It also contains alkaloids,
United States when used orally and appropriately in food saponins, steroids, proteins, amino acids and reducing sugars.
amounts, at a maximum use of 0.81% of dietary intake. Dust
exposure to tamarind flours may also induce chronic changes • Trigonella foenumgraecum
in lung function. Additionally, tamarind seed preparations Commonly known as methi, Greek hay, foenugreek,
have been linked to acute respiratory reactions. Tamarind fenigreek, fenugreek is an ancient spice grown from
candy has been associated with lead poisoning and death. It Mediterranean to China. The Latin species name foenum
should be used cautiously in patients with diabetes due to its graecum means “Greek hay”, referring to both the intensive
possible glucose lowering effects. hay fragrance of dried fenugreek herb and its Eastern
It is not recommended in pregnant or breastfeeding Mediterranean origin.
women due to a lack of available scientific evidence. It
should be avoided in individuals with a known allergy or Traditional Uses
hypersensitivity to tamarind or its constituents. Tamarind
may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with herbs and It is used traditionally as folk medicine. According to
Ayurveda, plant is digestible, anthelmintic, alexiteric, lep-
Antidiabetic Potential of Fabaceae Family: An Overview Current Nutrition & Food Science, 2010, Vol. 6, No. 3 173

rosy, ulcers, antipyretic, alternative, cures diseases of liver, ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

spleen, heart, blood, tumours, asthma etc. A decoction of the
The authors are grateful to Dr. Anand Kumar Reddy for
roots is given in dyspepsia, diarrhoea, rheumatism, asthma
his kindly support and encouragement.
and urinary disorders. The root powder is salutary for brush-
ing the teeth. It quickly relieves the dental pains and arrests
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Received: February 07, 2010 Revised: June 02, 2010 Accepted: June 02, 2010