Dolichos Lablab (Lablab purpureus (L.) commonly known as lablab bean or turtle beans, (locally referred to as njahi) is a legume small species native to Asia. Kenyan black beans ( Njahi), is popular in kenyan households because of the high levels of iron, phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans all contribute to building and maintaining bone structure and strength.

They are an excellent source of vegetarian protein; good quality protein that can replace “nyama” for those who cannot afford meat.

• They are a good source of insoluble fibre. This fibre has several benefits including serving as pre-biotics (food for the healthy bacteria in your gut), as a “filler food” which create a feeling of “fullness” and hence reduce the need to eat extra food.

• They cleanse the gut, by serving a bulk forming purgative - through various mechanisms and complement the healing process of inflammatory gut conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, leaky gut and hemorrhoids (bleeding from piles at the extreme end of the rectum).

• When absorbed into circulation and metabolized, through various processes, they contribute to reduction of blood pressure and heart health.

• The beans also play a key role in blood sugar regulation by slowing down the release of simple sugars. This is because they contain complex carbohydrates and fibre which create a feeling of satiety (fullness) and reduce more intake of sugar.

Dolichos have a low glycaemic index and are therefore recommended for diabetics and people, including farmers, who may want to regulate their blood sugar levels.