PULSE OR LEGUMINOUS SEEDS. 1 5 r 



Of this bean in its many varieties, a large number of analyses 

 have been made without disclosing any decided differences in 

 chemical composition. However, other things being equal, pre- 

 ference should be given to the larger-seeded varieties. This plant 

 withstands drought well, and forms a valuable food resource 

 when millets fail. It is ruined by heavy rains during its flower- 

 ing. It is sown, according to locality, in June to September, 

 and reaped from September to December. 



COMPOSITION OF MUNG-BEANS (G). 



In 100 parts, with Husk. 



Type Type Var. In I Ib. 



Green Seeds. Yellow Seeds. Radiatus. 



Water ... ... io'8 ... 11-4 ... 10*1 i oz. 270 grs. 



Albuminoids ... 22*2 ... 23-8 ... 227 3 ,, 276 



Starch 54-1 ... 54-3 ... 55-8 8 406 



Oil ... 27 ... 2-0 ... 2-2 o 154 



Fibre 5-8 ... 4-2 ... 4-8 o ,, 336 



Ash ... 4-4 ... 3-8 ... 4-4* o 308 



The nutrient-ratio of the unhusked beans is i : 27, the nutrient- 

 value 83. The fibre in the husked beans is reduced to n 

 per cent, all the other constituents being proportionately increased. 



In most localities this bean is esteemed highly, and is regarded 

 as wholesome ; it is generally eaten by the richer classes, and is 

 resorted to by all, wherever possible, in times of sickness. By 

 some authorities it is stated to cause flatulence unless eaten with 

 asafcetida. But it must be remembered that all pulse has this 

 tendency, if it form too large a proportion of the day's ration or be 

 insufficiently cooked. 



It is of interest to note that the ash of the straw or stems and 

 leaves of one of the varieties of this bean (var. 3, radiatus) is some- 

 times eaten, in Dinajpur for example, in lieu of salt. The craving 

 for mineral matter brought about by the marked deficiency of rice 

 in ash- constituents, is partially satisfied by the use of the ashes not 

 only of this pulse, but of several other kinds. 



* Includes n of phosphoric acid. 



