Scarlet Bean — Hermetica Encyclopedia
Legume

Scarlet Bean

Provisional Moderate ScoreCompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Scarlet Bean (Phaseolus coccineus) contains oligomeric globulin lectins and phenolic compounds that inhibit cyclooxygenase enzymes, specifically COX-1 (IC₅₀ = 1.2 µg/ml) and COX-2 (IC₅₀ = 38 µg/ml), reducing inflammatory mediators. These bioactive compounds also suppress lipoxygenase expression (15-LOX) with IC₅₀ values of 15.6 µg/ml while modulating NO/NF-κB pathways to decrease IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α production.

Screened PMID Records
6
Reported Benefits
Pending
Synergy Review
At a Glance
CategoryLegume
GroupLegume
Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate
Primary Keywordscarlet bean benefits
Scarlet Bean — botanical
Scarlet Bean — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports cardiovascular health
by lowering cholesterol, improving blood pressure, and enhancing heart function through high fiber, potassium, and antioxidant content.
Promotes digestive health
by supporting bowel regularity, balancing the gut microbiome, and reducing bloating with substantial dietary fiber.
Contributes to muscle
growth and energy with complete plant-based protein and essential amino acids for repair and sustained vitality.
Provides antioxidant and
anti-inflammatory protection through flavonoids and anthocyanins that reduce oxidative stress and chronic disease risk.
Enhances blood health
and immunity with rich iron and folate content, supporting red blood cell formation, oxygen transport, and immune resilience.
Maintains metabolic wellness
with slow-digesting carbohydrates that regulate blood sugar levels and sustain metabolic balance.

Origin & History

Scarlet Bean — origin
Natural habitat

Scarlet Bean (Phaseolus coccineus) is a vibrant legume native to Central America, particularly Mexico and Guatemala. Revered for its striking appearance and robust nutritional profile, it thrives in temperate climates. This superlegume is a cornerstone of traditional diets, valued for its contributions to cardiovascular, digestive, and metabolic health.

In Mesoamerican culture, Scarlet Beans were a core component of the "Three Sisters" agricultural system alongside corn and squash, symbolizing life, fertility, and sustainability. Their integration reflects ancient ecological wisdom, enhancing soil health and nutrition. Traditionally, they were a staple food for sustenance and ritual offerings.Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Multiple studies, including those published on PubMed and ScienceDirect, validate Scarlet Bean's benefits for cardiovascular health, gut microbiome balance, and metabolic regulation. Research also highlights its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting its role in chronic disease prevention.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Complete plant-based protein - Dietary fiber - B vitamins - Minerals: Potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, selenium - Phytochemicals: Flavonoids, anthocyanins, polyphenols

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Scarlet Bean's oligomeric globulin lectins (43-53 kDa) trigger immunomodulatory signal transduction while phenolic compounds and saponins inhibit cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 enzymes with IC₅₀ values of 1.2 µg/ml and 38 µg/ml respectively. The bean's bioactive compounds suppress 15-lipoxygenase expression and modulate the NO/NF-κB inflammatory pathway, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ. Flavonoids and tannins contribute additional antioxidant activity through free radical scavenging mechanisms.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Clinical evidence for Scarlet Bean is primarily limited to in vitro studies rather than human trials, with most research focusing on related Phaseolus species. Laboratory studies demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects through enzyme inhibition, but quantified human clinical efficacy data is not currently available in peer-reviewed literature. Multiple studies on PubMed and ScienceDirect validate cardiovascular and metabolic benefits, though specific sample sizes and controlled trial outcomes for Scarlet Bean require further investigation. The current evidence base suggests therapeutic potential but lacks the robust clinical validation seen with other legumes.

Also Known As

Phaseolus coccineusRunner BeanMultiflora BeanScarlet Runner BeanFire Bean

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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