Pea is a nutritious and health-beneficial vegetable commonly included in various cuisines around the world. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, peas help prevent numerous diseases and promote overall well-being. This article explores the plant’s description, cultivation methods, nutritional profile, health benefits, uses, and possible side effects.
Plant Description
Pea belongs to the Fabaceae family and is an annual herb grown mainly for its seeds and pods. The plant has a shrubby, climbing nature with thin stems supported by tendrils. Each leaf has 1–3 pairs of oval-shaped leaflets (1–6 cm long). Its green pods are either swollen or compressed, measuring 4–15 cm in length and 1.5–2.5 cm in width, each containing 2–10 seeds.
The plant grows 30–150 cm tall and completes its life cycle within one season. It is also known as Garden Pea, English Pea, or Green Pea, and is believed to have originated in the southwest region of Asia.
Cultivation
Peas thrive in cool-season climates, best grown during early spring or late summer to avoid extreme heat.
Ideal temperature: 15–24°C (60–75°F)
Frost tolerance: Up to –6.5°C (20°F)
Soil: Organically rich, well-drained soil with pH 5.5–7
Sunlight: Full sunlight preferred, though partial shade tolerated
Sow seeds directly in the garden once the soil temperature reaches 4.4°C. They should be planted on higher ground to prevent waterlogging.
Regional Names of Pea
| Language | Name |
| English | Green Pea / Pea |
| Hindi | Muttar |
| Marathi | Matar |
| Kannada | Batani |
| Telugu | Bhatni |
| Tamil | Pattani |
| Bengali | Bara Matar |
| Malayalam | Pachai Pattani |
| Odia | Matara |
| Punjabi | Matar |
Popular Indian Varieties: Early Bejar, Arket, Jawahar, Bonevilla, etc.
Scientific Classification
| Category | Details |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Clade | Tracheophytes, Angiosperms, Eudicots, Rosids |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Pisum |
| Species | P. sativum |
| Scientific Name | Pisum sativum |
Nutritional Value (per 100g of Pea)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Energy | 339 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 14.45 g |
| Sugar | 5.67 g |
| Fiber | 5.1 g |
| Fat | 0.4 g |
| Protein | 5.42 g |
Vitamins:
A (38 µg), B1 (0.266 mg), B2 (0.132 mg), B3 (2.09 mg), B6 (0.196 mg), C (40 mg), E (0.13 mg), K (24.8 µg), Folate (65 µg), Beta-Carotene (449 µg)
Minerals:
Calcium (25 mg), Iron (1.47 mg), Magnesium (33 mg), Manganese (0.41 mg), Phosphorus (108 mg), Potassium (244 mg), Sodium (5 mg), Zinc (1.28 mg)
Health Benefits of Pea
1. Aids Digestion: Rich in dietary fiber, peas help regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and promote a healthy digestive system.
2. Good Source of Iron: Peas combat iron deficiency (anemia) and help the body produce healthy red blood cells, enhancing energy and strength.
3. Promotes Eye Health: Loaded with lutein and carotenoids, peas reduce the risk of cataracts and age-related vision problems.
4. Boosts Immunity: Vitamin C and antioxidants like Phytoalexin help strengthen the immune system and protect against bacterial infections.
5. Supports Heart Health: Peas contain insoluble fiber that lowers cholesterol, supports healthy blood pressure, and reduces heart disease risk.
6. Improves Skin Health: Vitamin C aids collagen production, giving the skin firmness and glow. Antioxidants fight aging and protect from free radicals.
Additional Benefits
1. Helps in Weight Management: Low in fat and calories but high in fiber, peas keep you full longer and support healthy weight loss.
2. Enhances Sperm Quality: Peas contain glycodelin, a compound that improves sperm motility and fertility.
3. Strengthens Bones: Rich in Vitamin K and phosphorus, peas support bone metabolism and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
4. Good Source of Plant Protein: Peas are an excellent protein source for vegetarians, supporting muscle repair and growth.
5. Suitable for Diabetics: High fiber content helps regulate blood sugar levels and provides a hypoglycemic effect.
6. Reduces Cancer Risk: Peas contain polyphenols and antioxidants that may lower the risk of several types of cancer.
Uses of Pea
Peas are mainly consumed as food. They can be:
- Added to salads, soups, curries, and stews
- Used in pickles, dips, and snacks
- Included in various regional dishes across India
Possible Side Effects
- Though peas are healthy, excessive consumption can cause:
- Increased uric acid levels, leading to gout
- Weight gain (due to carbs)
- Gas and bloating from complex carbohydrates
- Digestive issues like constipation or diarrhea from pea protein powder
Conclusion
Peas are a powerhouse of nutrients that support digestion, immunity, heart health, skin, and bones. However, moderation is key to avoiding side effects. Including peas regularly in your diet can provide multiple long-term health benefits.
FAQs
1. What is a Pea plant called?
Ans: Pisum sativum, commonly known as Garden Pea, is an annual herb of the Fabaceae family.
2. Where are Peas produced?
Ans: Peas grow best in regions with cool seasons lasting at least two months. They are planted in spring in northern areas and in late summer in warmer zones.
3. How many varieties of Peas exist?
Ans: There are over 40 species and numerous varieties cultivated worldwide.
4. Can we eat the Pea plant?
Ans: Yes! Apart from the peas, the pods, shoots, and leaves (especially of snow peas and sugar snaps) are edible and nutritious.
5. What can replace sprouted Peas in food?
Ans: If sprouted peas aren’t available, you can substitute them with soft leafy greens like spinach or lettuce.
My self Anita Sahani. I have completed my B.Com from Purbanchal College Silapathar. I am working in Dev Library as a Content Manager. A website that provides all SCERT, NCERT 3 to 12, and BA, B.com, B.Sc, and Computer Science with Post Graduate Notes & Suggestions, Novel, eBooks, Health, Finance, Biography, Quotes, Study Materials, and more.
