The fruit from the tree of life has been providing African’s with a highly nutrient dense food source for generations. Looking similar to a durian this big oval fruit, once cracked opened is completely dry and filled with chalk like seeds that give a strong citrusy taste. The baobab fruit is filled with nutrients, boasting some of the highest levels of vitamin C of all fruit. Known for its superfood benefits it aids in energy release, digestion and immune function leading to amazing health. No wonder it’s also known to give you beautiful glowing skin.
The baobab tree is found in arid regions of Africa but also Madagascar, Arabia and Australia. These giant trees have been around for over 100 million years and boast an impressive lifespan, a panke baobab species found in Zimbabwe was 2,500 years old and the tallest baobab tree found was 47 metres. No wonder they can produce such impressive fruit!
Baobab, like any fruit contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates and vitamins and minerals but unlike many fruits the content is so rich is can provide massive health and healing benefits. This is why it has been used for thousands of years to eat but also medicinally to treat many diseases and illnesses from its local origin.
Baobab contains a rich complex of vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, zinc, iron and more. It has the highest antioxidant content of any fruit on the planet. This means it not only makes sure you won’t be deficient in nearly all nutrients but its antioxidants will travel through your body fighting free radicals that form from pollutions & toxins all around us. It is also a great vegan source of calcium, iron and protein, research stating it has been be used for anaemia, as well as zinc deficiencies. The most impressive nutrient content is vitamin c with 1 tsp providing 136.4mg which is more than double the minimum reference daily intake. This is why it has such a strong affect, fighting free radicals and boosting the immune system, improving your overall health.
One teaspoon of baobab a day provides 2g of fibre, 136.4 mg of vitamin C, 10 mg of calcium with only 10 calories and 3g of carbohydrate with only 1g of that as sugar. It also provides small amounts of protein, lipids and vitamins and minerals. Taken every day it can boost your health by improving digestion, the vitamins and minerals improve skin, boost the immune system and has been seen to reduce inflammation.
Baobab can be added to porridge and cereals, smoothies and juices or mixed into cakes, energy balls and desserts. It has a fresh citrusy taste so should be mixed with things that will compliment. I like to blend banana, spinach, lemon, ginger and baobab to make a refreshing morning smoothie to start the day feeling energised and cleansed.