Understanding the Name: Samkru and Vaijanti
The botanical name for Jobs Tears is Coix lacryma-jobi, a member of the Poaceae (grass) family. The name 'Jobs Tears' is believed to derive from the tear-like shape and appearance of its seeds. In the Indian subcontinent, this versatile plant is known by various regional names, with two of the most prominent Hindi names being Samkru and Vaijanti. While 'Samkru' is a common name used in parts of northern India, 'Vaijanti' often holds a more symbolic or traditional context, referring to the use of the hard-shelled seeds for making rosaries and jewelry. The regional diversity in names reflects the plant's widespread cultivation and integration into local traditions across India.
The Dual Nature of Jobs Tears: Food and Medicine
Jobs Tears is not a single-purpose plant. It has two main varieties that serve different functions. The hard-shelled variety (Coix lacryma-jobi var. lacryma-jobi) produces pearly white, bony beads that are primarily used for crafting ornamental items like necklaces, rosaries, and curtains. In contrast, the soft-shelled, cultivated variety (Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen) is grown as a nutrient-dense cereal grain. This variety is consumed as food, offering a chewy texture and nutty flavor, and has been a staple in parts of India for millennia. The distinction between these two varieties is crucial for understanding its uses.
Comparing Jobs Tears with other Grains
To better appreciate Jobs Tears, a comparison with other common grains is helpful. While it is sometimes mistakenly called 'Chinese pearl barley', it belongs to a completely different genus.
| Feature | Jobs Tears | Rice | Pearl Barley |
|---|---|---|---|
| Botanical Family | Poaceae (Grass family) | Poaceae (Grass family) | Poaceae (Grass family) |
| Appearance | Tear-shaped, pearly white to brown beads | Small, oval grains; various colors | Round, polished white grains |
| Texture | Chewy, firm, substantial | Varies from fluffy to sticky | Chewy, but generally softer than Jobs Tears |
| Flavor | Mild, nutty, earthy | Bland, starchy | Nutty, slightly sweet |
| Protein | Higher protein content than rice and wheat | Typically lower protein than Jobs Tears | Comparable or slightly higher protein than Jobs Tears |
| Fiber | Contains dietary fiber | Contains fiber, especially brown rice | High in dietary fiber |
| Nutritional Profile | Rich in essential amino acids, minerals, and fatty acids | Good source of carbohydrates and B vitamins | Excellent source of fiber and minerals |
| Traditional Uses | Food, medicine, rosaries, decorations | Staple food worldwide | Soups, stews, casseroles |
Traditional and Medicinal Significance in India
Jobs Tears has a long history of use in both Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In India, traditional practitioners have utilized various parts of the plant for their therapeutic properties. The seeds and roots are particularly valued for their health benefits. In Ayurveda, Jobs Tears is known as Gavedhuka and is described as having pungent and sweet tastes, and properties that help balance bodily functions. It is traditionally used to address conditions like obesity, inflammation, and urinary issues. The plant's documented medicinal uses include anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and hypoglycemic effects, suggesting its potential in managing various health conditions. However, the use of Jobs Tears should be done with caution, especially for pregnant women, as some extracts have been shown to induce uterine contractions in animal studies.
Culinary Applications and Preparation
The cultivated variety of Jobs Tears is a versatile grain with numerous culinary applications, particularly in Asian cuisine. The seeds must be dehulled before cooking. They can be boiled and eaten whole, similar to rice, or ground into a flour for making baked goods and thickening soups. In India, it has been used by various tribes to make traditional foods and beverages. The cooked grains have a satisfying, chewy texture and absorb flavors well, making them an excellent addition to stews, porridges, and even sweet desserts. The broth from boiling the grains can also be used as a tea or stock base.
Cultivation and Habitat in India
Jobs Tears is native to Southeast Asia, and its cultivation in southern India dates back at least 4,000 years. It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and is found growing in the wild, particularly in wet and marshy areas, and near rice fields. In commercial settings, it can be considered a weed in rice paddies due to its robust growth. Despite its long history, modern cultivation in some parts of India has declined due to changing agricultural practices and tastes. However, it remains an important crop in northeastern India, particularly among tribal communities who use it for food, fodder, and traditional crafts. There are modern efforts to revive interest in this multipurpose crop due to its nutritional and potential medicinal benefits.
Conclusion
Jobs Tears, or Coix lacryma-jobi, is a grain of immense cultural and historical importance in India, known by Hindi names such as Samkru and Vaijanti. Its dual role as both a decorative bead and a nutritious cereal grain highlights its versatility. Whether valued for its anti-inflammatory properties in Ayurveda or enjoyed for its nutty flavor in a hearty stew, this grain holds a significant place in traditional Indian practices and cuisine. While faced with modern challenges, its unique nutritional profile and rich history ensure its continued relevance as a functional food and herbal medicine. Recognizing the indigenous names, such as Samkru and Vaijanti, preserves this important connection to India's botanical and cultural heritage.
Jobs Tears in India: Key Takeaways
- Hindi Names: Jobs Tears are most commonly known in Hindi as Samkru and Vaijanti.
- Dual Use: The plant has both wild, hard-shelled varieties used for beads and a cultivated, soft-shelled variety used for food.
- Culinary Value: The grain is a nutritious and versatile food, often used in soups, porridges, and as a rice substitute.
- Medicinal Properties: In Ayurveda, Jobs Tears (Gavedhuka) is used for its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and hypoglycemic effects.
- Cultural Significance: The hard seeds are traditionally used to make rosaries and jewelry, especially in regions of India and Southeast Asia.
- Historical Presence: Jobs Tears have been cultivated in southern India for over 4,000 years and hold a deep history in the region.
- Nutritional Profile: It is a good source of protein, essential amino acids, and minerals.
