Canavalia ensiformis – Famine Foods

Canavalia ensiformis

Uses

India: pods eaten. The seeds contain toxic properties which must be removed, before being prepared for food. They have a high value, for the amino acid threonine. A Tanzanian sample showed a protein content of 29+%.

Additional Information

Name Authority:
DC.
Vernaculars:
Mandvi, Surat district, Bombay Presidency: Mavi. English: Jack Bean, Chickasaw Lima, Horse Bean, Broad Bean, Sword Bean, Cut-Eye, One-Eye Bean, Overlook.
Misc:
Chemical composition (acid content) (Nigerian sample): oil = 1%; component esters (wt. %): 16:0 = 17%. 16:1 = 2%. 18:0 = 2%. 18:1 = 49%, 18:2 = 18%. 18:3 = 7%. 20:0 = 1%. 22:0 = 1%. 24:0 = 2%. Reported to have a high Threonine value.

 Plant Classification Group:
 Plant Locations:

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This site is provided to Mr. Freedman by Dr. Jules Janick, Emeritus Professor and Former James Troop Distinguished Professor of Horticulture. The content on this site is provided and maintained by Mr. Freedman.

Page last modified: May 28, 2022

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