Sacha Inchi (Plukenetia volubilis)

FamilyEuphorbiaceae
Scientific namePlukenetia volubilis
Common name (English)Sacha Inchi
Common name (Malay)Sacha Inchi
Identified asIntroduced plant on Project M.A.R.S.’s land

Plukenetia volubilis, commonly known as sacha inchi or Inca peanut, is a perennial climbing plant in the Euphorbiaceae family. Native to the Amazon rainforest, it is cultivated for its seeds, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and antioxidants and are consumed roasted, pressed for oil, or used in nutritional supplements. Traditionally, the seeds and oil have been valued in folk medicine for their cardiovascular, anti-inflammatory, and general health-supporting properties. With its nutritional, medicinal, and economic significance, Plukenetia volubilis remains an important species in tropical agroforestry systems and functional food industries.