Chenopodium quinoa
Chenopodium quinoa
Chenopodium quinoa (pronounced: kee-NO-ah), commonly known as quinoa, is a flowering plant in the Amaranthaceae family. It is a grain crop grown primarily for its edible seeds.
Etymology
The name "quinoa" is derived from the Quechua word "kinwa", which was the name of the plant in the ancient Inca Empire. The scientific name, Chenopodium quinoa, is derived from the Greek words "chenos" (goose) and "podion" (little foot), referring to the shape of the leaves, and "quinoa", the Quechua name for the plant.
Description
Quinoa plants are herbaceous annuals that can reach up to 3 meters in height. The seeds are small, round, and usually pale yellow, although they can also be red, black, or white. They are covered in a bitter-tasting coating called saponin, which must be removed before the seeds can be eaten.
Cultivation and uses
Quinoa is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of climates and soils. It is primarily grown in the Andean region of South America, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years. Today, it is also grown in North America, Europe, and Asia.
Quinoa seeds are a highly nutritious food source. They are rich in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. They are also gluten-free, making them a popular choice for people with celiac disease or other forms of gluten intolerance.
Related terms
- Amaranthaceae: The plant family to which quinoa belongs.
- Saponin: A bitter-tasting compound found on the surface of quinoa seeds.
- Protein: A nutrient that is abundant in quinoa seeds.
- Fiber: A type of carbohydrate that is also found in high amounts in quinoa.
- Vitamin: Quinoa is a good source of various vitamins.
- Mineral: Quinoa is rich in several important minerals.
- Gluten-free: A characteristic of quinoa that makes it suitable for people with certain dietary restrictions.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Chenopodium quinoa
- Wikipedia's article - Chenopodium quinoa
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