A mung bean (Vigna radiate) is a legume that is rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients. Looking sort of like an oval- shaped pea, the plant is native to South America. Also known as Green Gram or Golden Gram, this bean is packed with nutrients and is a common food in most Asian countries.

Mung beans are also antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. When made into a powder, it is mildly abrasive and perfect as part of a face mask. They also have the ability to help increase skin cell activity, slow the loss of elasticity and increase the firmness of skin. The mung bean and mung bean extracts are best used as anti-aging additives in skin care products. They have very high free-radical scavenging rates and anti-oxidant capacity.

Mung beans are also a very healthy part of a diet. Eaten either as a soup by boiling the beans or as sprouts, they have many health benefits including reducing stress & anxiety, bolstering the immune system, promoting cardiovascular health and helping keep your digestive system healthy.