From Traditional Cuisine to Cutting-Edge Skincare: The Wonders of Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan)

Who would have thought that one of the key ingredients in KBL—or Kadios Baboy Langka, a beloved Filipino dish—could find its way into your skincare routine? The humble pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan), locally known as Kadios, has made a remarkable leap from the kitchen to the realm of dermatology.

The pigeon pea is a native plant that flourishes in the Panay Island region of the Philippines, particularly in the provinces of Iloilo, Negros Occidental, and Antique. Revered for its integral role in Ilonggo cuisine, Kadios features prominently in iconic dishes like KBL—a flavorful soup made with Kadios, pork, and jackfruit—and KMU, a dish that combines Kadios with chicken and the core of the banana trunk (ubod or ubad). While commonly regarded as a minor crop, often grown in backyards or small farms, Kadios also serves multiple agricultural purposes, including livestock feed, weed suppression, and soil enrichment through nitrogen fixation.

A Treasure Trove of Health Benefits

Beyond its culinary applications, Kadios seeds have long been valued in traditional medicine for their therapeutic properties. Rich in secondary metabolites, these tiny seeds boast potent antibacterial and antioxidant activities, making them a natural powerhouse for promoting health.

Dr. Doralyn S. Dalisay - Founding Director, Center for Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, University of San Agustin

Building on this traditional knowledge, a pioneering study led by Dr. Doralyn S. Dalisay and a team of Balik Scientists unveiled a groundbreaking discovery: pigeon pea extracts contain potent antibiotic compounds effective against Staphylococcus aureus or staph (golden staph), including multidrug-resistant strain. This remarkable finding opens up new possibilities for treating persistent skin infections and other diseases caused by these pathogens.

Introducing Skivios: Nature-Infused Skincare Innovation

The scientific breakthroughs surrounding Kadios have led to the creation of Skivios, an innovative skincare line that harnesses the natural antibacterial properties of pigeon pea extracts. Designed to address various skin concerns and prevent breakouts, the Skivios line includes two flagship products:

Skivios Serum Gel—A multitasking formula enriched with pigeon pea extract to cleanse, hydrate, and protect the skin from impurities. This serum promotes a fresh, healthy glow while reinforcing the skin’s natural barrier.

Skivios Facial Mist—A lightweight, refreshing mist infused with pigeon pea extract to prep and hydrate the skin. Ideal for use throughout the day, it leaves the skin revitalized and glowing.

Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Solutions

The journey of Kadios from a traditional kitchen ingredient to a scientifically validated skincare solution exemplifies the transformative power of research and innovation. It reminds us that the answers to modern challenges often lie hidden in plain sight—within the food we eat, the plants we grow, and the traditions we cherish.

This groundbreaking project represents a collaborative effort among several esteemed institutions: the University of San Agustin’s Center for Natural Drug Discovery and Development and Center for Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Maridan Industries, Inc., Pharma GalenX Innovations, Inc., and the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD). Together, these organizations are advancing health and skincare through the harmonious blending of science and nature, paving the way for sustainable and innovative solutions.

The story of Kadios is a testament to the boundless potential of nature-inspired innovation and a celebration of the ingenuity that transforms everyday elements into extraordinary breakthroughs.

Sources:

Kadyos Pigeon Pea. (n.d.). Slow Food Foundation for Biodiversity. https://www.fondazioneslowfood.com/en/ark-of-taste-slow-food/kadyos-beans/

Balida, L.A.P.; Regalado, J.T.A.; Teodosio, J.J.R.; Dizon, K.A.H.; Sun, Z.; Zhan, Z.Q.; Blancaflor, J.M.D.; Sollesta, J.V.N.; Villorente, Z.M.; Saludes, J.P.; et al. Antibiotic Isoflavonoids, Anthraquinones, and Pterocarpanoids from Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan L.) Seeds against Multidrug-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Metabolites 2022, 12, 279. https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo12040279