Are Pigeon Peas Anti-Inflammatory? Unpacking the Health Benefits

November 28, 2025 •

4 min read

A 2012 study published in Food & Function demonstrated that pigeon pea extracts successfully suppressed inflammatory cytokines in a lab setting, highlighting their potential anti-inflammatory effects. But are pigeon peas anti-inflammatory when consumed as food, and what specific compounds are responsible for these health benefits?

Quick Summary

Pigeon peas contain bioactive compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids that exhibit anti-inflammatory activity. Research indicates these substances can suppress inflammatory cytokines and reduce swelling, supporting their traditional use for reducing inflammation.

Key Points

Rich in Flavonoids: Pigeon peas contain high levels of flavonoids, a class of polyphenols known for their potent anti-inflammatory effects.
Inhibits Inflammatory Cytokines: Studies show pigeon pea extracts can suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in lab tests,.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Link: The pea's strong antioxidant properties help combat oxidative stress, which is a major contributor to inflammation.
Supports Traditional Medicine: Modern research on bioactive compounds validates the long-standing use of pigeon peas in traditional medicine for various inflammatory conditions,.
Different Parts, Different Benefits: Anti-inflammatory compounds have been identified in the seeds, leaves, and roots of the pigeon pea plant.
Best as Part of a Healthy Diet: While extracts show significant promise, pigeon peas are best consumed as part of a balanced, whole-food diet to help manage inflammation, not as a medical cure.

Pigeon peas (Cajanus cajan) are a staple legume in many parts of the world, particularly Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Beyond their significant nutritional value as a rich source of protein, fiber, and minerals, traditional medicine has long prized them for various healing properties. Modern scientific research is now providing evidence that aligns with these traditional uses, pointing to specific bioactive compounds in the pigeon pea that possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.

The Anti-Inflammatory Power of Pigeon Peas

Recent scientific investigations have uncovered the presence of a wide array of phytochemicals within the pigeon pea plant, including its seeds, leaves, and roots. These compounds are primarily responsible for the legume's therapeutic effects, including its anti-inflammatory action. A crucial link exists between oxidative stress and inflammation, meaning that powerful antioxidants can help mitigate inflammation. Pigeon peas are rich in antioxidants that combat free radicals and, in turn, help control the inflammatory response.

Key Bioactive Compounds

Flavonoids: These are a class of polyphenolic compounds widely found in plants. Pigeon peas are rich in flavonoids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties,.
Anthocyanins: Found abundantly in colored variants of pigeon peas, anthocyanins like cyanidin-3-monoglucoside have been shown to directly inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6,.
Isoflavonoids: Research has identified several isoflavonoids in pigeon peas, including genistein, daidzein, and cajanol,. These compounds have demonstrated various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway,.
Phenolic Compounds: In addition to flavonoids, other phenolic compounds and stilbenoids like cajaninstilbene acid found in the leaves have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities,.

Evidence from Preclinical Studies

Laboratory studies, particularly those conducted in vitro on macrophage cells and in vivo using animal models, have provided the most concrete evidence for the anti-inflammatory effects of pigeon peas,. For instance, a 2012 study showed that ethanol extracts of pigeon peas successfully suppressed the production of inflammatory cytokines in lipopolysaccharide-treated macrophages,. Another study on animal models of Parkinson's disease found that pigeon pea seed extract could attenuate neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. While promising, it is important to note that these studies use concentrated extracts and controlled conditions, and the effects may not be as pronounced from dietary consumption alone.

Traditional Wisdom and Modern Application

For centuries, various parts of the pigeon pea plant have been used in traditional folk medicine to treat conditions involving inflammation,. For example, the leaves and flowers have been used for respiratory infections, and seeds for specific kidney and urinary ailments. The modern research confirming the presence of anti-inflammatory compounds validates these long-standing practices and opens the door for further exploration of pigeon peas as a functional food.

Comparative Anti-Inflammatory Potential: Pigeon Peas vs. Other Legumes

While many legumes are considered healthy, the specific anti-inflammatory compounds found in pigeon peas offer unique benefits. The following table provides a comparison with other common legumes like chickpeas and lentils.


Feature	Pigeon Peas	Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans)	Lentils
Key Anti-inflammatory Compounds	Flavonoids, Isoflavonoids (Genistein, Cajanol), Anthocyanins	Flavonoids, Polyphenols	Flavonoids, Polyphenols
Antioxidant Activity	High due to rich polyphenol content,	High due to diverse phenolic compounds	High, particularly in colored varieties
Dietary Fiber	High, aiding gut health and modulating gut microbiota	High, supporting digestive health	High, with both soluble and insoluble fiber
Protein Content	High (approx. 20-25%)	High (approx. 19-20%)	High (approx. 24-25%)
Traditional Medicinal Use for Inflammation	Extensive,	Some uses, but less documented specifically for inflammation	Used in traditional remedies but not specifically for inflammation

Adding Pigeon Peas to an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Incorporating pigeon peas into your diet is a flavorful and nutritious way to potentially harness their anti-inflammatory properties. They can be consumed in various forms, including fresh green peas, dried whole seeds, or split peas (dal).

Include in Soups and Stews: A classic way to use pigeon peas is in soups and stews, providing a hearty, protein-rich base. Pair with vegetables and spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic for an extra anti-inflammatory boost.
Prepare as a Side Dish: Boil or pressure cook dried pigeon peas and season with herbs and spices for a simple, nutritious side dish.
Use in Curries and Rice Dishes: In Indian and Caribbean cuisine, pigeon peas are often combined with rice to create popular dishes like arroz con gandules or used to make a savory dal.
Try Green Pigeon Peas: Fresh green pigeon peas are a flavorful vegetable and can be added to salads or stir-fries for a nutritional lift.
Proper Processing: Cooking methods like soaking and boiling not only make the peas digestible but also help reduce some of the naturally occurring anti-nutritional factors, maximizing the bioavailability of beneficial compounds.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Pigeon Peas

So, are pigeon peas anti-inflammatory? The scientific community has provided robust evidence from laboratory and animal studies that pigeon peas contain several bioactive compounds, including specific flavonoids and anthocyanins, which possess powerful anti-inflammatory effects,. These effects are linked to their ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and act as potent antioxidants. This evidence supports the traditional use of pigeon peas in folk medicine for centuries. While they are not a medical cure, incorporating pigeon peas into a healthy, balanced diet rich in other whole foods is a proactive step towards promoting overall wellness and managing inflammatory processes. For further in-depth scientific context, the 2012 study on its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects is a valuable resource.

Frequently Asked Questions

Research has identified several key compounds, including flavonoids, anthocyanins like cyanidin-3-monoglucoside, and isoflavonoids such as genistein and cajanol, as the primary agents responsible for pigeon peas' anti-inflammatory effects,.

Studies have shown that anti-inflammatory compounds can be found in the seeds, leaves, and roots of the pigeon pea plant. Different compounds may be more concentrated in different parts.

Pigeon peas reduce inflammation by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and by providing potent antioxidants. These antioxidants help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which contributes to inflammation,.

While pigeon peas can be a healthy part of an anti-inflammatory diet, they should not be considered a treatment for any medical condition. They are a food, and any health concerns should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Some studies suggest that processing and cooking methods can affect the bioavailability of certain compounds. However, cooking is necessary for proper digestion and can reduce some anti-nutritional factors, making the beneficial components more accessible.

To maximize benefits, include pigeon peas regularly in a diverse diet rich in other anti-inflammatory foods like vegetables, fruits, and spices. Proper cooking methods and incorporating different forms (like fresh peas or sprouts) can also help.

When cooked and prepared properly, pigeon peas are safe and highly nutritious. Like other legumes, they can cause gas or bloating in some individuals, but soaking and proper cooking can help minimize this effect.