Cowpea

Cowpea

The cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) is an annual herbaceous legume from the genus Vigna. Cowpea known as Black-eyed pea. Due to its tolerance for sandy soil and low rainfall, it is an important crop in the semiarid regions across Africa and Asia. It requires very few inputs, as the plant’s root nodules are able to fix atmospheric nitrogen, making it a valuable crop for resource-poor farmers and well-suited to intercropping with other crops. The whole plant is used as forage for animals, with its use as cattle feed likely responsible for its name.

Benefits: Cowpea is rich source of protein. Beneficial in treating kidney, bladder & gall stones. Useful in treating amoebic diarrhea, bowel haemorrhage & colic pains due to its anthelmintic. It is loaded with various types of nutrients. It is rich in fiber, protein, iron, potassium, folate, copper, thiamine, and iron, low in fat and calories. It supports a Healthy Cardiovascular System & Immune system. It prevents Cancer, Anaemia, Cold Sores, Depression, Diabetes. It supports a Healthy Metabolism, Helps Maintain Strong Bones, helps heal and repair muscle tissue, maintain bowel health, encourages Mental Well-being. The seeds are usually cooked and made into stews and curries, or ground into flour or paste. The crop is mainly grown for its seeds, which are high in protein, although the leaves and immature seed pods can also be consumed.