African velvet tamarind is the fruit of a native West African tree called Dialium Guineense.
Popularly known as Awin in Yoruba, Icheku in Igbo and Tsamiyar kurm in Hausa. It is a seasonal fruit with an orange pulp that has a sweet and tangy taste and a velvet shell. Everybody enjoys the fruit but probably know nothing about its health benefits.
Five of the diseases this fruit could treat include:
1. Malaria
According to research, the leaf extract inhibits the growth of Plasmodium falciparum which causes malaria; therefore, taking a concoction of the leaf can cure malaria.
2. Treats Ulcer and Prevents Hypertension
The leaf extract of velvet tamarind has the ability to increase gastric mucus secretion which helps ease gastric ulcer. The leaves are also highly diuretic as it promotes the production of urine, making it easier for the heart to pump blood hence, reducing the risk of hypertension.
3. Anti-inflammatory and Anti-microbial Properties
The fruit pulp contains abundant vitamin C which fights against microbial infections. The stem bark has the ability to reduce inflammation in bronchial tubes that arises due to bronchitis.
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Improves Oral hygiene and cures Toothache
The stem of velvet tamarind is used as a chewing stick (indigenous toothbrush), this stick contains saponin which adds cleaning effect to the teeth and at the same time removes plaques and carries on the teeth of users. -
Reliefs Menstrual Cramp and stops Diarrhea
The stem bark extract has significant analgesic property hence, can be used to reduce menstrual pain. You can take it along with papaya leaf, salt and water to work effectively. It can also stop diarrhea.
By Maimuna Bagudu
