Tag: Drought tolerant crops

For thousands of years, *Lathyrus sativus*, or grass pea, has been an important crop in drought-prone regions due to its resilience and high protein content, but is *Lathyrus sativus* edible? Historically, reliance on this legume during famine led to widespread paralytic disease, revealing a critical need for proper preparation.

According to agricultural data, Lathyrus sativus, commonly known as grass pea, is cultivated across over one million hectares, primarily in South Asia and East Africa, due to its exceptional hardiness and drought tolerance. Often an "insurance crop" in regions prone to famine, this legume offers significant nutritional advantages, but is also associated with a critical health consideration involving a neurotoxin.

Cooked hyacinth beans contain a robust 15.79 grams of protein per cup, revealing their significant nutritional value. This versatile legume's importance extends far beyond its impressive protein content, impacting global health, nutrition, and sustainable farming practices.

Globally, sorghum is the fifth most produced cereal grain, yet a common point of confusion persists: is sorghum a grain or millet? While often discussed alongside millets due to shared properties, sorghum is scientifically its own distinct large-grained cereal, while millet refers to a varied group of smaller-seeded grasses.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), sorghum is the fifth most important cereal crop globally, and it is most similar to corn due to its nutrient composition and cultivation requirements. It's a remarkably versatile and drought-tolerant ancient grain that has long been a staple in Africa and Asia, now gaining traction worldwide as a healthy, gluten-free alternative.

Originating in the Ethiopian highlands and widely cultivated in Africa and India, ragi is a naturally resilient and nutritious grain. This drought-tolerant crop has adapted over millennia to thrive in challenging environments, cementing its status as a vital source of nutrition and sustenance.