Canavalia ensiformis
Canavalia ensiformis
Canavalia ensiformis, commonly known as jack bean or yardlong bean, is a traditional plant with origins in tropical regions of South America and Africa. Traditionally, its use has not been extensively documented across various cultures. Scientific studies have shown that microbial inoculation with Trichoderma harzianum or Bacillus subtilis can mitigate copper toxicity in the plant, though results may vary depending on the copper dose. Additionally, jack bean extracts demonstrated significant effects against the bug Rhodnius prolixus by reducing its oviposition and delaying ovarian development, possibly through disruptions in lipid metabolism. The selenium-containing derivative SF3 was found to be a potent urease inhibitor, showing promise for agricultural applications. Fermentation of jack beans increased their total phenolic and flavonoid contents, enhancing potential antidiabetic effects via improved cell wall permeability and enhanced release of phenolics. To date, no major safety issues or recorded drug interactions have been identified with the use of this plant.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Microbial inoculation with Trichoderma harzianum or Bacillus subtilis mitigated copper toxicity in Canavalia ensiformis, with effectiveness varying depending on the Cu dose.
- The selenium-containing derivative SF3 was the most effective urease inhibitor among tested compounds, inhibiting urease activity in soil regardless of its type.
- JBU treatment significantly reduced oviposition and delayed ovarian development in R. prolixus, likely through disruptions in lipid metabolism.
- Fermentation increased the total phenolic and flavonoid contents in jack bean tempeh, enhancing its antidiabetic potential through improved cell wall permeability and phenolic release.
Frequently asked questions
What is Canavalia ensiformis?
Canavalia ensiformis (Canavalia ensiformis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Canavalia ensiformis?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Canavalia ensiformis; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Microbial inoculation with Trichoderma harzianum or Bacillus subtilis mitigated copper toxicity in Canavalia ensiformis, with effectiveness varying depending on the Cu dose.
How strong is the evidence for Canavalia ensiformis?
The strongest finding for Canavalia ensiformis carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Canavalia ensiformis safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Canavalia ensiformis in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Canavalia ensiformis interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Canavalia ensiformis in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Canavalia ensiformis?
Canavalia ensiformis is also known as: Канавалия мечевидная.
Is Canavalia ensiformis a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Comparative effects of Trichoderma harzianum and Bacillus subtilis on the growth of Canavalia ensiformis (L.) DC. and phytoremediation potential in soils with excess copper (Cu). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Phenolic Composition Profile and Antidiabetic Activities of Jack Bean [Canavalia ensiformis (L.) DC.] Tempeh. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Jack bean urease impairs oogenesis in the Chagas disease vector Rhodnius prolixus. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Chalcogenated phosphine derivatives as urease inhibitors for agricultural: soil application and biophysical studies. literature abstract metadata