The name Baobab probably conjures up many associations. This is a tree whose fruit is considered a real superfood.
The Africans have been using almost all parts of the baobab tree, the so-called boabab, for several centuries. It is considered a guarantee of well-being and he alth. In the meantime, the almost sacred tree of life, as it is also called, has finally found its way into our kitchens.
Why “miracle tree”?
The name of the baobab native to Africa is derived from the Arabic term „bu hibab“ , which means “fruit with many seeds”. The trees can grow up to 25 meters high and thousands of years old. The tree blossoms for the first time after 20 years. They also shape the image of the African savannah symbolically and impressively. Almost every part of the baobab tree is used in traditional African medicine. The leaves are mainly used for gastrointestinal diseases and the seeds for example for toothache, liver infections or malaria diseases. Even if the local people use all the components, it is above all the fruit that declares the baobab to be a miracle tree. The round to oval fruits contain a very nutritious pulp and many nutrient-rich seeds. These are considered to be particularly rich in anti-inflammatory and disease-preventing plant substances. They also contain a lot of fiber, potassium and a lot of vitamin C. The antioxidant content of the baobab fruit is said to be higher than that of acai or goji berries, for example. The still largely unknown food is therefore often classified as a "superfood" and praised for its he althy effects.
Baobab Powder
If at all, we know baobab mostly in powder form. After ripening, the baobab tree naturally dries the fruit to retain water. The dried pulp is separated from seeds and fibers and sieved. The almost white powder obtained tastes goodthen slightly sweet and is very suitable for mixing in, for example, yoghurt, fruit juices, but also teas and of course in muesli. In addition, the baobab powder can also be used as a binding agent. Smoothies also get a nice smoothness with the natural extract. It can usually be found in he alth food stores. In the meantime, you can even discover baobab as an ingredient in lemonades or even spreads.
Baobab: more than just a he althy food
The baobab tree symbolizes one thing above all: the connection between man and untouched nature. A connection that often seems to have been lost with the industrial processing of food. Whole African villages move when a tree dies and go in search of a new one to live by. He is criticized in this country mainly because of his long way to us. The ecological footprint is an important issue for many. Of course, regional foods are the more conscious choice for us. But even if the good is often so close, it is still a pleasure to look into the distance to discover something new.
Did you know that the baobab tree can also be planted in a pot as a houseplant? Check out this article for more exotic houseplants.