Baobab

Baobab

The Baobab tree, and the many parts of it, have been used for hundreds of years for a whole multitude of things, from food, to medicine, to building materials.

Over the years, as the interest in all things Baobab grew, scientist have done several clinical studies on the various parts of the tree to prove it’s worth.

Baobab Fruit

• Prebiotic & Probiotic
• High in fiber
• Increases Calcium absorption
• Low GL
• High in Vitamin C
• Anti-Inflammatory
• Anti-Fungal

Baobab Oil

• Known to help with conditions such as acne, boils, very dry skin, fungal infections. High antioxidant properties which can also help treat eczema and psoriasis.
• Can sooth sunburn, and shaving rash.
• Rich in vitamins A, D, E and F, B1 & B2 and contains Omega 3, Omega 6, Omega 9.
• Baobab oil can be used as an excellent moisturizer for your skin and hair.
• It absorbs easily into the skin, is non greasy, improves tone and regenerates and renews skin cells.
• Scientifically proven to increase skin elasticity

Baobab Seeds

• Contains Omega 3, Omega 6, Omega 9
• Rich in vitamins B1, B2, Phosphorous, Iron and Protein
• Roasted can be used as a coffee substitute, ideal for easing caffeine withdrawal symptoms
• Micronised seeds can be used as a raw organic natural face & body scrub
• Good source of energy, protein, and fat. Contains substantial quantities of calcium, potassium, and magnesium
• Organic exfoliant used to remove dead skin cells and promote new cell growth

The exotic baobab tree has long inspired folklore and legends.

Many of these stories serve to explain the unusual look of the baobab tree. In one story, the tree is planted upside down in error during creation. In another, it’s carelessly tossed over the wall of Paradise and lands upside down by chance. But in most of the stories, the baobab is purposely planted roots-up by the gods as punishment — usually because the tree is proud or coveting. Tales tell of the baobab:

• being disdainful of other trees
• being jealous of the slender palm
• desiring the beauty of the African flame tree
• envying the magnificent fig tree and its fruit

Whether it’s punishment by the gods or not, the baobab’s bulbous roots-in-the-air appearance is not without compensation. Its thick, corky, fire-resistant trunk stores enormous amounts of water during the wet months for the long, dry season ahead

There are many other tales of the baobab’s mystic qualities. One colorful legend says that the ghost of a giant python haunts an old tree, and the hissing can be heard on still nights. Another tells of a tree that became jealous and imprisoned four beautiful girls who grew up in its shade when the girls started looking for husbands.

A number of superstitions have also arisen about this imposing tree:

• Drinking water in which baobab seeds have been soaked, will protect you from crocodile attacks.
• If you pick a flower from a baobab tree, you will be eaten by a lion.
• Baby boys washed in an infusion of baobab bark will grow up large and robust, like the tree.
• Women are made fertile by touching the trunk of the baobab.

Sources:

1. http://www.baobab-fruit.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/Baobab%20Data%20Sheet.pdf
2. http://www.auracacia.com/