[5][6][7] The matchbox bean is native to a broad area from mainland Asia, through Melanesia to northern Australia and the western Pacific.

[2] In 1914 the American botanist Elmer Drew Merrill, who was at that time halfway through his 22-year stint of working in the Philippines, published a review of the species, in which he transferred it to the genus Entada.

The shampoo is obtained by soaking and rubbing the bark of the vine gugo (Entada phaseoloides),[3][4] producing a lather that cleanses the scalp effectively.

[9] A study by the Philippines Department of Science and Technology found that gugo prevents hair fall because it stimulates micro circulation in the blood vessels.

[10] Tongans use the seeds of this plant (known as paʻanga) as ankle decorations for their traditional kailao dance as well as for use in an ancient game called lafo.