Agathi Keerai
Agathi leaves, also known as Sesbania grandiflora, are widely used in various parts of the world, especially in South and Southeast Asia.
Here is a list of how Agathi leaves are referred to in different languages, along with its botanical name:
Botanical Name:
- Botanical Name: Sesbania grandiflora
Common Names in Different Languages:
- English: Agathi, Hummingbird tree leaves, or Sesbania leaves
- Tamil: அகாத்தி கீரை (Agathi Keerai)
- Hindi: अगथी के पत्ते (Agathi ke Patte)
- Malayalam: അഗാതി ഇല (Agathi Ila)
- Telugu: ఆగతి ఆకులు (Agathi Aakulu)
- Kannada: ಅಗತಿ ಸೊಪ್ಪು (Agathi Soppu)
- Sanskrit: श्वेतपत्रिका (Shvetapatrika)
Botanical Classification
- Botanical Name: Sesbania grandiflora
- Family: Fabaceae
- Genus: Sesbania
- Order: Fabales
Uses of Agathi Keerai
Culinary Uses
- Used in South Indian cuisine to prepare stir-fries, dals, and poriyal.
- The flowers are used in soups, curries, and salads.
- Popular in Ayurvedic and Siddha cooking for detoxifying the body.
Medicinal & Health Benefits
- Rich in nutrients: Contains Vitamin A, C, Calcium, and Iron.
- Boosts immunity: Strengthens the body's defense system.
- Improves digestion: Helps relieve constipation and bloating.
- Detoxifies the body: Known for purifying the blood.
- Good for skin and hair: Used in Ayurvedic treatments.
- Lowers body heat: Often consumed to reduce excess body heat.
- Supports bone health: High calcium content helps in bone strengthening.
Other Uses
- Agathi or Sesbania grandiflora is a fast-growing, soft-wooded tree known for its beautiful white, purple, or pink flowers.
- The leaves are commonly used in traditional medicine and cooking in various cultures, especially in curries, soups, and chutneys.
- Traditional medicine: Used in Ayurveda and Siddha for treating fevers, ulcers, and inflammation.
- Fodder for livestock: Leaves and flowers are used as animal feed.
- Ornamental plant: The tree is grown in gardens for its beautiful white and red flowers.
