Primarily related to their nutritional value, medicinal properties, and agricultural uses. They contain high levels of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy lipids, but their use for human consumption is limited by the presence of a toxic compound, mimosine, which must be neutralized through proper processing (like cooking). 

 

Nutritional Benefits

The seeds are a good source of several essential nutrients: 

• Macronutrients: They contain high amounts of protein (25-32%), carbohydrates, and lipids, including beneficial omega 3, 6, and 9 unsaturated fatty acids.
• Amino Acids: The seeds are particularly rich in glutamic acid, arginine, and leucine.
• Vitamins and Minerals: They contain various vitamins (e.g., beta-carotene, vitamins E and K) and minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and iron. 

 

Medicinal Properties

In traditional medicine, different parts of the plant, including the seeds and extracts, have been used for various ailments. Research indicates the seeds may have the following pharmacological effects (note that more research on humans is needed): 

• Antidiabetic: Extracts from the seeds have shown potential to lower blood sugar levels.
• Anticancer/Antitumor: Some compounds in the seeds have demonstrated anticancer and anti-metastatic effects in studies.
• Antimicrobial/Antibacterial: Seed extracts exhibit activity against various bacteria.
• Anti-inflammatory: Certain protein fractions and compounds in the seeds have shown anti-inflammatory properties.
• Other Traditional Uses: Seeds have been used to control stomach ache, as an emollient, and as an anthelmintic (to expel intestinal worms). 

 

Important Caution:

The primary limitation to the use of Leucaena leucocephala is the presence of mimosine, a toxic amino acid that can cause side effects such as hair loss, growth retardation, and infertility, especially in non-ruminant animals and humans if consumed in large, unprocessed quantities. Proper processing, such as soaking or cooking, is essential to significantly reduce mimosine levels and ensure safety for consumption