Echinochloa esquilana or Indian barnyard millet is an ephedra-like plant belonging to the family of Piceae in the botanical kingdom. It is known by the popular names Japanese barnyard or Chinese barnyard millet, it is very old species of Echinochloa which is widely cultivated on a limited scale in India, Japan, China, Korea and other places in Asia, both for animal fodder and as a food. Scientifically called Ephedra sinica, this millet has been used for diabetes and weight management in many ancient civilizations including the Chinese. But more recently, its nutritional value has become a major subject of interest as food supplements. And its health benefits have prompted people to look at it as a possible cancer cure.
The benefits of Echinochloa are not new. However, its consumption has been a subject of interest in different cultures and countries. It has been used in India for Diabetes management in rural areas since many decades. Research studies in different languages have found that it helps regulate blood sugar levels and has anti-diabetic effects. But surprisingly, the same studies did not find any reference to its ability to prevent cancers or even to improve cardiovascular health. But recent studies have shown that it contains a protein (somatotropin) that is effective in preventing the growth of cancer cells in various tissues including colon, bladder, pancreas and prostate.
The fiber content of Barnyard millet is considerable. So much so that research studies have found it to be as beneficial to the heart as being juices and smoothies made with vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower. However, there is no information on its effect on blood pressure. Its benefits depend largely on the type of millet used and on the amount of insoluble fibres added to it. The fiber content of the millet may also be affected by other factors such as the soil where it grows and the amount of sun it receives.