Scientific name: Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn
Hindi name: Mandua; Telugu name: Ragulu
It is an annual plant extensively grown as cereal in the dry areas of India,
especially in the southern part. It contains high amounts of calcium, proteins
with well-balanced essential amino acids along with vitamin A, vitamin B and
phosphorous. Its high fibre content prevents constipation, high blood pressure
and intestinal cancer.
Finger millet is commonly used in South Indian Kitchens. It is rich in calcium,
about ten times that of rice or wheat. It is an important ingredient in the food of
babies, as it contains plenty of calcium and iron. Protein content in finger millet
is high making it an important factor in preventing malnutrition. Also making
it an ideal food for diabetics as it has demonstrated ability of controlling blood
glucose levels and hyperglycemia.
