Kacang Sepat

A. Taxonomical Info

Domain: Eukarya

Kingdom: Plantae

Phylum: Spermatophyta

Class: Dicotyledonae

Order: Fabales

Family: Fabaceae

Genus: Lablab

Species: Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet

B. Morphology / Distribution / Habitat Info

Morphology
Lab lab purpureus known as hyacinth bean is a climbing or trailing perennial legume with long vines, trifoliate leaves, and purple or white flowers. The pods are slightly curved and contain several flat seeds that vary in color from white to brown.

Distribution
The plant likely originated in Africa but has long been naturalized and cultivated across South and Southeast Asia, including Malaysia.

Habitat Info
It grows in tropical lowlands with warm temperatures and full sunlight. The species tolerates a wide range of soils and is often planted in gardens, small farms, or mixed cropping systems.

C. Traditional Uses / TK-related Info

▪ Food and nutrition  

The pods and seeds are eaten as vegetables or used in soups and curries. They must be boiled thoroughly to remove natural toxins, such as cyanogenic glycosides and other anti-nutritional compounds (Deka & Sarkar, 1990). Hyacinth beans are highly nutritious, providing a rich source of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, making them a valuable component of plant-based diets in many tropical regions (Cook et al., 2005).

▪ Animal feed  

Commonly used as fodder for livestock. Its high protein content and good digestibility make it an excellent forage crop for livestock such as cattle, goats, and sheep, whether fed fresh, dried as hay, or used in silage form 

▪ Medicinal  

Kacang sepat (a type of legume) has been used in herbal medicine. People have used various parts of the plant, particularly the seeds, to help treat diarrhea, fever, and digestive issues. In some traditional practices, it’s also believed that the seeds can strengthen the spleen and stomach, helping improve digestion and overall vitality 

▪ Soil improvement  

As a legume, kacang sepat improves soil fertility through nitrogen fixation, making it valuable for crop rotation.

D. Any related scientific studies, such as ecology/ conservation status/threats/diversity

Research by FAO and agricultural institutes shows Lablab purpureus as a promising crop for sustainable food systems due to its drought tolerance and soil enrichment properties. Its seeds are rich in protein, minerals, and dietary fiber. Studies also highlight significant genetic diversity among local cultivars in Malaysia and Indonesia. The species is common and not threatened.