Vicia faba
Vicia faba
Vicia faba, also known as the broad bean, fava bean, or fabada, is a species of flowering plant in the pea and bean family Fabaceae. It is native to North Africa, southwest and south Asia, and extensively cultivated elsewhere.
Pronunciation: /ˈviːʃiə ˈfeɪbə/
Etymology: The genus name Vicia is derived from the Latin word 'vicia', meaning 'a kind of vetch', while the species name 'faba' is Latin for 'bean'.
Description
Vicia faba is a rigid, erect plant 0.5 to 1.8 meters tall, with stout stems of a square cross-section. The leaves are 10 to 25 centimeters long, pinnate with 2–7 leaflets, and of a distinct glaucous grey-green color. Unlike most other vetches, the leaves do not have tendrils for climbing over other vegetation.
Medical Uses
Vicia faba has several medical uses. It is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, as it is a natural source of L-dopa, a precursor to dopamine. It also has potential benefits in managing hypertension and improving cardiovascular health due to its high fiber and protein content.
Related Terms
- Fabaceae: The pea and bean family, to which Vicia faba belongs.
- L-dopa: A precursor to dopamine, found in Vicia faba.
- Parkinson's disease: A neurodegenerative disorder that Vicia faba is used to treat.
- Hypertension: A condition that Vicia faba may help manage.
- Cardiovascular health: A health aspect that Vicia faba may improve.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Vicia faba
- Wikipedia's article - Vicia faba
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