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A few months ago, my mother came back from the wet market with bunches of petai, also known as stink beans. Halfway through helping my mother to peel the pungent vegetable, which is a type of ulam, she asked if I would like to try eating it – raw. I mean, I’ve mostly eaten it cooked, so I was a little hesitant to have it uncooked. Then, I thought to myself, having a little raw petai wouldn’t hurt, right? So I had my first taste of uncooked petai. Soon, I found myself popping more of those beans, associated with certain properties, which will be discussed in this article.

Has antidiabetic properties

A study conducted found that there is a reduction in blood glucose levels when diabetic rats are given doses of chloroform extract of the Parkia speciosa, the scientific name for petai.

Has considerable amount of Vitamin C

In a study, it is mentioned that Vitamin C is present in the seeds.  For every 100 grams, there are 19.3 miligrams of Vitamin C.

Has the capacity to keep one relaxed

Petai is known to contain tryptophan that converts proteins to become serotonin, a compound to make one more relaxed and therefore maintain a positive mindset.

Said to help with one’s premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Ladies, rejoice! Related to the capacity to keep one relaxed, consuming petai can also help ease one’s premenstrual syndrome, associated with symptoms like moodiness.

Has the potential to help those who have anaemia

Those who have anaemia are encouraged to eat petai, as it contains high levels of iron, needed for the production of haemoglobin. Pregnant mothers looking to lower the risk of having pre-natal anaemia can consider eating a comfortable amount of petai.

Has fibre

Consuming petai is said to have effects on constipation, which happens when one lacks fibre. However, its fibre content can also lead to flatulence if consumed excessively.

Has a pungency that will linger on for days

The pungency of the petai will not only make one’s breath smell but also make one’s urine stink. My mother found out from the lady at the wet market that the best way to get rid of the strong odour is by consuming aubergine, the same day that you plan to have petai.

So, the next time you plan to have petai, you might want to chew on these.