Autor: |
Odeku OA; Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200132, Nigeria., Ogunniyi QA; Department of Pharmacognosy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200132, Nigeria., Ogbole OO; Department of Pharmacognosy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200132, Nigeria., Fettke J; Biopolymer Analytics, Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, 14476 Potsdam, Germany. |
Jazyk: |
angličtina |
Zdroj: |
Plants (Basel, Switzerland) [Plants (Basel)] 2024 Apr 26; Vol. 13 (9). Date of Electronic Publication: 2024 Apr 26. |
DOI: |
10.3390/plants13091208 |
Abstrakt: |
In an era dominated by conventional agricultural practices, underutilized legumes termed "Forgotten Gems" represent a reservoir of untapped benefits with the unique opportunity to diversify agricultural landscapes and enhance global food systems. Underutilized crops are resistant to abiotic environmental conditions such as drought and adapt better to harsh soil and climatic conditions. Underutilized legumes are high in protein and secondary metabolites, highlighting their role in providing critical nutrients and correcting nutritional inadequacies. Their ability to increase dietary variety and food security emerges as a critical component of their importance. Compared to mainstream crops, underutilized legumes have been shown to reduce the environmental impact of climate change. Their capacity for nitrogen fixation and positive impact on soil health make them sustainable contributors to biodiversity conservation and environmental balance. This paper identifies challenges and proposes strategic solutions, showcasing the transformative impact of underutilized legumes on agriculture, nutrition, and sustainability. These "Forgotten Gems" should be recognized, integrated into mainstream agricultural practices, and celebrated for their potential to revolutionize global food production while promoting environmental sustainability. |
Databáze: |
MEDLINE |
Externí odkaz: |
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