Eleusine coracana(Poaceae) Ragi,Finger Millet

Eleusine coracana (Ragi, Finger Millet)

1. Scientific name and Basic Taxonomic classification

Species: Eleusine coracana

Family: Poaceae

Genus: Eleusine

Related Herbs from the same family:(Refer to the list under Paspalum scrobiculatum, as the family is the same. Key related herbs include Cynodon dactylon, Oryza sativa, and Hordeum vulgare.)

2. Common names

Scientific Name: Eleusine coracana | English: Finger Millet, Ragi | Sanskrit: Madhulika, Nartana | Hindi: Mandua, Marua | Tamil: Kezhvaragu | Telugu: Ragulu | Kannada: Ragi | Malayalam: Panjipullu | Marathi: Nagli, Nachni | Bengali: Marwa | Nepali: Kodo |

3. Medicinal Uses:Nutritive Tonic, Strengthening (Balya), Hypoglycemic, Galactagogue, Anti-ulcerogenic, Antioxidant, High Calcium Source.

Medicinal Parts:The dehulled grains are the primary part used for food and medicine.

4. Phytochemicals specific to the plant and their action.

Dietary Fiber (High, especially in the seed coat): Its actions are Hypoglycemic (very low glycemic index), Hypolipidemic, and it promotes satiety.

Polyphenols (Tannins, Catechins): These compounds are responsible for the grain's dark color and have potent Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory actions. They also contribute to the grain's Anti-diabetic property by inhibiting carbohydrate-digesting enzymes.

Amino Acids (Tryptophan, Cystine): Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin, which can aid in Appetite regulation and Sleep. Cystine is important for skin and hair health.

Minerals (Calcium, Iron): Exceptionally high in bio-available calcium, its action is crucial for Bone Health, making it a key food for growing children and preventing osteoporosis. Iron supports Blood Building.

Phytates: In finger millet, the phytates may contribute to its Antioxidant property and the slow release of sugars.

5. Traditional and Ethnobotanical uses covering the Medicinal uses.

Asthi Dhatu Kshaya (Bone Tissue Depletion) & Vata Disorders

Formulation: Ragi as a staple food.

Preparation & Use: Ragi is made into porridge, rotis, and gruels and is a traditional weaning food and a staple for the elderly to maintain bone strength.

Reasoning: Its exceptionally high calcium content directly nourishes the Asthi Dhatu (bone tissue), and its heavy (Guru) property helps pacify Vata dosha.

Prameha (Diabetes)

Formulation: Ragi mudde (balls) or whole grain preparations.

Preparation & Use: Consuming ragi as a major part of the meal is a well-known traditional practice for managing blood sugar.

Reasoning: The high fiber and polyphenol content significantly slow down digestion and the release of glucose, making it one of the best grains for diabetics.

Stanyajanana (Galactagogue)

Formulation: Ragi porridge with nuts and ghee.

Preparation & Use: Lactating mothers are given ragi porridge or laddus to enhance the quantity and quality of breast milk.

Reasoning: It acts as a powerful Brimhana (nutritive tonic), providing the extra calories, calcium, and iron required during lactation.

Annadrava Shoola (Gastric Ulcers) & Amlapitta (Acidity)

Formulation: Ragi gruel.

Preparation & Use: A thin, cool ragi gruel is consumed to soothe the stomach lining and reduce acidity.

Reasoning: Its cooling (Sheeta) potency and anti-ulcerogenic properties help pacify Pitta and Rakta in the stomach, reducing inflammation and pain.

6. Healing recipes, Teas, Decoctions and Culinary use (if any):

Ragi is incredibly versatile and used in a wide range of dishes.

Ragi Malt (Porridge) for Weaning and Strength

Purpose: A highly nutritious porridge for infants, children, and convalescing adults.

Preparation & Use:

• Roast ragi flour until aromatic.

• Mix with water/milk to form a paste, then cook until thick.

• Add jaggery or salt for taste.

Ragi Mudde (Finger Millet Balls) for Sustained Energy

Purpose: A staple dish that provides long-lasting energy, ideal for manual laborers and for managing diabetes.

Preparation & Use:

• Boil water. Add ragi flour and stir vigorously to form a thick dough.

• Wet your hands and shape the dough into smooth, firm balls.

• Serve with saaru (rasam) or curry.

Ragi Dosa for a Healthy Breakfast

Purpose: A fermented, probiotic-rich crepe.

Preparation & Use:

• Soak ragi grains with urad dal and fenugreek seeds.

• Grind into a batter and ferment overnight.

• Cook like a regular dosa on a hot griddle.

7. Disclaimer:Eleusine coracana is a supremely nutritious and safe food. However, due to its high fiber content, excessive consumption may lead to constipation in some individuals if not accompanied by sufficient water intake. Its high calcium content is generally beneficial, but individuals with a history of kidney stones should consult their doctor. This information is for educational purposes only.

---- End of the blog -x-x

8. Reference Books, Books for In-depth Study:

• Indian Materia Medica by Dr. K.M. Nadkarni

• The Wealth of India

• Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India

9. Further study: Plants that might interest you due to similar medicinal properties

1. Sesamum indicum (Sesame/Tila)* Species: Sesamum indicum | Family: Pedaliaceae | Genus: Sesamum* Similarities: Both Ragi and Sesame are exceptionally high in calcium and are considered Vata-pacifying, strengthening, and nourishing to the bones (Asthi Dhatu). They are both classic foods for promoting strength and bone health in Ayurveda.

2. Avena sativa (Oats)* Species: Avena sativa | Family: Poaceae | Genus: Avena* Similarities: Both Oats and Ragi are renowned as nutritive tonics, galactagogues, and heart-healthy grains due to their high soluble fiber content (beta-glucan in oats, other fibers in ragi). They provide sustained energy and are excellent for managing cholesterol and blood sugar.

-x-x-x-End-x-x-x-