Finger millet

Finger millet (Eleusine coracana), also known as ragi in India, is a cereal crop grown in the arid and semiarid areas in Africa and Asia. It is a staple food in many parts of the world, especially in India, Nepal, and parts of Africa.

Description

Finger millet is an annual herbaceous plant widely grown as a cereal crop in the arid and semiarid areas in Africa and Asia. It is a tetraploid and self-pollinating species probably evolved from its wild relative Eleusine africana.

Cultivation

Finger millet is grown in fields and farms in many parts of the world. It is a hardy crop that can grow in high altitudes and withstand harsh weather conditions, making it very suitable for areas with poor rainfall. The crop is often intercropped with legumes, such as peanuts, cowpeas, and pigeon peas, or other cereals, such as maize or sorghum.

Nutritional Value

Finger millet has high nutritional value. It is a rich source of natural iron, calcium, fiber, and other minerals. It is also high in protein and contains important amino acids, which are essential for human health.

Uses

Finger millet is used in various culinary applications. It can be ground into flour and used to make bread, porridge, and other food products. In India, it is commonly used to make a type of flatbread called roti. It is also used in brewing to make traditional African beers.

Health Benefits

Finger millet has several health benefits. It is a good source of natural iron and can help in treating anemia. It is also beneficial for bone health due to its high calcium content. The high fiber content in finger millet can help in managing diabetes by controlling blood sugar levels.

See Also

• Cereal
• Agriculture
• Nutrition
• Food security

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