cajanus cajan

Cajanus cajan, commonly known as pigeon pea, is a perennial leguminous shrub widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine across Asia and Africa for conditions such as diabetes, ulcers, skin irritation, hepatitis, measles, jaundice, liver disorders and food poisoning. The plant contains various bioactive compounds including flavonoids (e.g., genistein), stilbenes (e.g., longistylin A/C), saponins, tannins and isoflavones like cajanol. Pharmacological studies have demonstrated antioxidant activity (attributed to phenolics), antimicrobial effects against bacteria and fungi (notably Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans), hepatoprotective properties against alcohol- or toxin-induced liver damage via reduction of serum markers of hepatic injury; hypolipidemic effects through enhancement of hepatic LDL-receptor expression; anticancer activity—particularly the root-derived isoflavanone cajanol induces apoptosis in breast cancer cells via ROS-mediated mitochondrial pathways; anthelmintic action due to phenolic content; hyperglycemic effect at higher doses useful for counteracting hypoglycemia; analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions are also reported[1][2][3][5].

Other names

Cajanus indicusCytisus cajanpigeon peakadiosmu dou