Common Names for Agathi Keerai
While known as Agathi Keerai in South India, this beneficial plant goes by a variety of names across the world. The most prevalent English common name is the Vegetable Hummingbird, a moniker inspired by its large, distinctive flowers that resemble the shape of the bird.
List of Common Names
- English: Vegetable Hummingbird, Agati, August Tree, Scarlet Wistaria Tree, West Indian Pea.
- Tamil: Agathi Keerai.
- Hindi: Agasti, Agasya.
- Telugu: Avisaku.
- Kannada: Agase Soppu.
- Malayalam: Agathi.
- Filipino (Tagalog): Katuray, Katurai.
- Indonesian: Turi, Kembang Turi.
- Thai: Dok Khae.
- Vietnamese: So Dua.
The Botanical Identity: Sesbania grandiflora
All these common names refer to the same botanical species, Sesbania grandiflora. This is a fast-growing, soft-wooded legume tree belonging to the family Fabaceae. It can grow to heights of 5–20 meters and is distinguished by its feathery, rounded leaves and large, edible flowers. The flowers can be white, red, or pink, with the white-flowered variety being the most common. The entire tree, including leaves, flowers, and pods, is edible and has been used traditionally for both culinary and medicinal purposes.
Nutritional Profile and Health Benefits
Sesbania grandiflora is considered a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Rich in vitamins: It is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are powerful antioxidants that boost immune function and support skin and vision health.
- Bone health: Its high calcium and phosphorus content contribute to strong bones, helping to prevent osteoporosis.
- Iron source: The iron in Agathi Keerai helps combat anemia and boosts red blood cell production, which reduces fatigue.
- Digestive aid: The high dietary fiber content promotes healthy digestion and relieves constipation.
- Antimicrobial properties: Compounds like saponins offer antimicrobial activity, protecting against common bacteria and fungi.
Comparison of Nutrient Content (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Agathi Leaves | Typical Spinach |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~93 Kcal | ~23 Kcal |
| Protein | ~8.4g | ~2.9g |
| Carbohydrates | ~12g | ~3.6g |
| Calcium | ~1130 mg | ~99 mg |
| Iron | ~4 mg | ~2.7 mg |
| Vitamin C | ~14.6 mg | ~28.1 mg |
Note: Nutritional values can vary based on growing conditions and preparation methods.
Culinary Uses and Preparation
Beyond its health benefits, Agathi Keerai is a versatile vegetable in the kitchen. In South Indian cuisine, the leaves are used to prepare dishes like 'kootu' and 'poriyal'. To reduce its natural bitterness, it is often cooked with spices, lentils, or coconut. The flowers are also used in various ways, such as battered and deep-fried fritters in Bengali cuisine or added to curries in Southeast Asia. The young seed pods can be eaten similarly to green beans.
Important Considerations and Warnings
While highly nutritious, Agathi Keerai should be consumed in moderation. Traditional Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine suggest using it with care, advising against overconsumption. It is particularly noted that it should not be consumed while taking Siddha medicine, as it may nullify the effects.
Conclusion
To summarize, the common name for Agathi Keerai is the Vegetable Hummingbird tree, a plant prized for its significant nutritional value and medicinal properties. Known botanically as Sesbania grandiflora, this leafy green is a versatile ingredient in many regional cuisines, especially in South and Southeast Asia. While it offers numerous health benefits, it should be consumed thoughtfully, following traditional guidelines regarding its frequency and combination with other remedies. Understanding its various names and characteristics helps appreciate this powerhouse green's role in global food traditions and wellness.
Learn more about this fascinating plant by exploring its details on Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sesbania_grandiflora.
