Subabul Tree

About Subabul Tree:

• It is a fast-growing leguminous tree commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions.
• It originates from Mexico is a small, perennial, woody, highly branched to medium-sized tree with a short, clear bole. 
• It was introduced as a cover crop in plantations and for fodder and fuel.
• Other names: Kubabul (Hindi), Naattu Cauvindal (Tamil), Kainti, Kantisubabul (Telugu).
• Distribution in India: It is mainly found in Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Odisha and Tamil Nadu 
• Uses: The leaves and immature seeds are eaten in the form of soups or salad, both raw and cooked, providing a rich source of protein and fibre, leading to its traditional usage in human and animal food by different ethnic communities.
• It is valuable for its wood, which is used to make good quality charcoal, small furniture and paper pulp. 

What is diabetes?

• It is a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.
• Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose.
• It is a Non-Communicable Disease (NCD).
• Type 2 Diabetes: In this condition the human body doesn’t use insulin well and can’t keep blood sugar at normal levels. It develops over many years and is usually diagnosed in adults (but more and more in children, teens, and young adults).

Q1: What are Legumes?

These are a family of plants that includes beans, peas, lentils, peanuts, soybeans, and alfalfa. Legumes have a symbiotic relationship with bacteria called rhizobia, which live in the roots of the plants. The rhizobia bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia, which is then used by the legume plant.

News: Tropical plant Subabul shows potential in managing insulin resistance related to type II diabetes