Big-leaved lupine is a perennial herb of the pea family (Fabaceae) within the Lupinus genus. Introduced as a cultivated plant in Europe, it later escaped and became wild. Lupines are herbaceous plants, reaching a height of 1-1.5 meters. They have a taproot system deeply embedded in the soil (1-2m).

The inflorescence consists of racemes with numerous flowers. The base lupine flower color is dark violet or blue, but cultivated varieties can exhibit white, pink, or bicolored flowers.

Lupines typically bloom in June and early July. For medicinal purposes, the aerial parts of the plant, inflorescences, and seeds are harvested, and occasionally the roots.

The edible seeds of lupines are a valuable food product rich in easily digestible proteins, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Dietitians recommend lupine seeds for patients with anorexia, athletes, and individuals recovering from prolonged illness. Regular consumption of this product helps regulate the digestive tract, enhances resistance to infectious diseases, and improves the cardiovascular system. While lupines have not been widely utilized in official medicine, their nutritional content contributes to potential therapeutic properties.

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Information sources: www.latvijasdaba.lv, Wikipedia, https://www.agfonds.lv