indian pea
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A leguminous plant: "Indian pea" refers to a European annual plant (Lathyrus sativus) cultivated as a forage crop. Its seeds are used for human consumption in India and as animal feed in other regions. It is also commonly known as grass pea or chickling vetch.
Usage
- The Indian pea is a hardy crop that can tolerate drought conditions.
- While nutritious, prolonged consumption of the Indian pea can pose health risks due to certain compounds in its seeds.
- Farmers grow Indian pea primarily for forage to feed livestock.
Advanced Usage
- Botanical Context: In agricultural and botanical texts, is the scientific name for the plant commonly called Indian pea. It is studied for its resilience and its associated neurological disorder, lathyrism, when consumed as a staple food.
- Historical/Economic Context: The Indian pea has been an important food source during famines due to its ability to grow in poor soils, despite the known risks.
Variants and Related Words
- Grass pea (n): Another common name for the same plant ().
- Chickling vetch (n): Another common name for the same plant ().
- Lathyrism (n): A neurological disease associated with excessive consumption of the seeds of the Indian pea over a prolonged period.
Synonyms
- Grass pea
- Chickling vetch
- Khesari dal (common name in India)
Notes
- The term "Indian pea" specifically highlights the seed's use as food in India, distinguishing it from its primary use as forage elsewhere. It is crucial to note that this is a specific plant species and not a general term for peas from India.
Noun
- European annual grown for forage; seeds used for food in India and for stock elsewhere