Sesbania grandiflora, also known as Agathi Keerai or the vegetable hummingbird, is a small loosely branching tree belonging to the family Fabaceae and genus Sesbania. Agathi Keerai typically means the green leaves of the plant, a fast-growing tree which grows in a hot humid climate and the tree is indigenous to India, Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia and also widely grown in Mexico, South West USA.
The tree is clad by several vernacular names agathi in Tamil, avisa in Telugu, and agase in Kannada. The hummingbird tree is also called as Falmingo Bill, Katuday, Katurai, So Dua and Paloma in different parts of the globe.
The fruit looks like flat, long, thin green beans that can thrive under full exposure to sunlight and is frost-sensitive. The leaves are round, and flowers range from yellow, white, and blue to red color. The red and white flowers are used as vegetables while the yellow and blue are mostly used in medicines. The red group of leafy vegetables are more nutritious as it is loaded with phenolic compounds while the white flower greens are mostly preferred as it is less bitter.
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All parts of the Sesbania grandiflora tree is used for its indispensable medicinal properties in traditional Ayurvedic medicines. It is beneficial in treating diarrhea, dysentery microbial infections, and inflammatory diseases. Agathi leaves are the best sources of vitamin A, calcium, and phosphorus among all the green leafy vegetables. Ayurveda strongly vouches for these leaves as the best dietary way to promote bone health and immunity. Right from the pod, young flowers and seeds of Sesbania Grandiflora are edible and used extensively in several cuisines for their impressive nutrient profile.
Nutritional Facts
Agathi flowers and leaves are loaded with a myriad of nutrients including protein, minerals, and vitamins. Sesbania grandiflora is a good source of vitamin A, folate, thiamin, niacin, and vitamin C. Flowers also render ample amounts of magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and selenium. According to the National Institute of Nutrition, Agathi leaves contain 8 grams of protein imbued with all 8 essential amino acids and incredible amounts of calcium 1130mg. The seeds comprise powerful chemoprotective agents like leucocyanidin and cyanidin. Besides these, seeds also contain Saponins and Sesbanimide which possess strong antibacterial and antimicrobial properties and detoxify the system.
Ayurvedic Uses
Agathi leaves have been used extensively in Ayurveda for treating several ailments including migraine, sinusitis, fever, and respiratory woes. The leaves possess powerful anthelmintic, diuretic, and laxative properties. The flowers are valuable in curing headaches, night blindness, and cataracts. Apart from these, the bark of the tree is used to treat diarrhea, gonorrhea, malaria, and smallpox. Agathi leaves are known to aggravate Pitta dosha, calm down aggravated Vata dosha, and clear out excess Kapha dosha.
Wellness Benefits Of Agathi Leaves
Bolsters Immunity
Agathi leaves imbued with powerful antioxidants guard the cell membrane against free radical oxidation scavenge against free hydroxy radicals and avert DNA damage. Evidence has revealed that agathi leaves can uplift the levels of zinc, selenium, and magnesium in the blood and decrease the harmful compounds like glutathione reductase, glutathione S transferase. Furthermore, agathi leaves disclosed immunomodulatory effects against hypersensitivity. Also Read: Herbal Teas That Boost Immunity
Antimicrobial Effects
The richness of cysteine and cystin in agathi leaves are shown to exert antimicrobial and antioxidant effects which scavenge free radical damage. The antifungal effects of agathi leaves battle against Candida albicans and Aspergillus Niger. The leaves and flowers possess powerful antimicrobial effects against E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and the roots have an anti-tuberculosis effect against Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Regulates Diabetes
Regular addition of these wonder leaves in the diet benefits all diabetes patients by repairing the damaged cells of the pancreas and controlling blood sugar spikes. Agathi leaves are also potent in bringing down the cholesterol, and triglyceride levels and maintaining lipid profile. Studies have also shown that the addition of agathi leaves or leaf extract can remarkably stabilize the HbA1C level.
Prevents Cancer
These incredible leaves with strong antioxidant properties prevent lipid peroxidation and hinder the growth of tumor cells. The flowers are well known to have apoptosis effect against lung cancer cells and also avert and treat colon cancer.
Strengthens Bones
Immense amounts of calcium, iron, and vitamins in agathi leaves are valuable in fortifying the bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis and arthritis in older people. Regular addition of these nutrient-dense leaves prevents fragile bones, improves bone mineral density and supports bone health. Also Read: World Osteoporosis Day: 5 Ways To Stay Healthy With Osteoporosis
Skin Health Benefits Of Agathi Leaves
Apart from health benefits, agathi leaves also offer several skincare benefits due to their rich nutrient profile when used topically or in the diet. Here are some of them
Cures Stubborn Acne
Agathi leaves help reduce inflammation and redness of the skin. The leaves are also beneficial for soothing irritated or acne-prone skin.
Combats Oxidative Stress
The leaves are rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, which protect the skin from oxidative stress, preventing premature aging, dullness and the formation of wrinkles.
Promotes Faster Skin Healing
Agathi leaves can be used in natural remedies to promote skin hydration and accelerate the healing of wounds or skin scars due to their healing and nourishing properties.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile: M Sowmya Binu
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Cytoprotective Activity of Agathi Leaf Protein
A S Zarena, Shubha Gopal, R Vineeth
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3927847/
http://jpht.in/MenuscriptFile/63666901-1bd7-4e01-b4ed-1ab0af3d5de0.pdf
Conclusion:
Agathi leaves and flowers are bitter and astringent in taste and leaves are fibrous and crunchy in texture. The calyx and stamen are removed from the leaves while cooking as these elevate the bitterness. However excess intake may cause stomach upsets and it best to add garlic to counteract this effect. Adding grated coconut to agathi leaves or flowers helps to offset the bitter taste. Add these amazing greens in your regular diet to reap the wellness incentives.
