Chickpeas
legume
The chickpea or chick pea is an annual legume of the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae, cultivated for its edible seeds. Its different types are variously known as gram, Bengal gram, chana (চানা), garbanzo, garbanzo bean, or Egyptian pea. It is one of the earliest cultivated legumes, the oldest archaeological evidence of which was found in Syria.
Conditions addressed
How to use
- Soak overnight, then simmer until tender.
- Use in soups, stews, dips, or as a side dish.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Children
No herb-specific pregnancy/child safety research is documented for Chickpeas in our references — the guidance below is based on its general effect category, not research on Chickpeas itself. Always confirm with a midwife, doctor, or pediatrician.
Pregnancy
Use CautionThis herb may affect blood pressure. Since blood pressure changes are a significant pregnancy risk factor (e.g. preeclampsia), herbs in this category are generally used only under medical supervision rather than self-directed — this is a general, mechanism-based caution, not herb-specific research.
Breastfeeding
Use CautionGenerally used cautiously during breastfeeding, particularly if the nursing parent is also on blood pressure medication.
Children
Use CautionBlood-pressure-active herbs are generally used cautiously in children and typically only under pediatric guidance.
Interactions & contraindications
May affect blood sugar
Watch for: Insulin and oral diabetes medications (metformin, sulfonylureas)
Additive blood-sugar-lowering effects can risk hypoglycemia — monitor glucose closely.
May affect blood pressure
Watch for: Antihypertensive medications (ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, diuretics)
Combined use can push blood pressure too high or too low — monitor readings if you take blood pressure medication.
May thin the blood
Watch for: Anticoagulants (warfarin), antiplatelets (aspirin, clopidogrel), and other blood-thinning herbs or supplements (ginkgo, garlic, fish oil, vitamin E)
Combining blood-thinning substances can increase bleeding risk, including before surgery or dental work.