Exploring benefits of the Mighty baobab fruit

Discover the incredible benefits of baobab fruit (known as mbuyu in Venda) from the mighty baobab tree, scientifically known as Adansonia.

I had to stop. I wasn’t going to miss this opportunity again. The opportunity to see, touch, and smell the mighty baobab tree. In April 2023 while driving to Limpopo, I passed by many baobab trees by the side of the road. I told myself I’d come back properly, but I missed the opportunity to go back.

So when I visited Limpopo, in January 2024, as soon as I spotted the baobab, I made sure to stop and embrace this tree of life. 

As I walked to stand in its shade, the tree’s trunk and its branches seemed to tell a story of resilience, strength and ancient wisdom. Its branches reached out to me like welcoming arms and I hugged it in return. It was in that moment, when a rush of memories flooded my mind, transporting me back to my childhood days.

Memories & Lessons from Venda

As a kid, there was only one place I’d get to eat the baobab fruit (known as mbuyu in Venda), and that was at my grandmother’s village. My cousins and I would sit and suck on the seeds to get the sweet and sour taste of the baobab powder, and then go back to play with mud and sticks.

Little did I know then, that the baobab fruit held a deeper significance within the Venda culture. If you ever have the privilege of sitting down with an elder from Venda, they would regale you with tales of how the baobab fruit was cherished during times of food scarcity. The fresh baobab fruit was dried and stored, ensuring a source of sustenance during lean times. The secret behind its remarkable shelf life was a wondrous gift from nature itself; If stored properly, it could last for several years without spoiling, providing nourishment for years to come.

There’s so much the baobab fruit has to offer. A secret known only to the wise and the experienced was the infusion of the baobab tree bark in water. This concoction was used to wash newborn babies, a venda tradition believed to promote rapid growth and strong bones. Just like the mighty trunk of the baobab tree, which gradually grew thicker and stronger over time.

As I grew older, my visits to my grandmother’s village became less frequent, I moved to a different country and the taste of the baobab fruit became a distant memory. Yet, the allure of its power and the stories woven around it never left me.

Now, as an adult, I find myself yearning to know more about this superfood (mbuyu) that shaped and sustained my ancestors. The baobab powder, with its unique taste and abundance of nutrients, is one of those I’ll continue to adore. It is said to have the power to heal and nourish the body and the soul. I believe the journey to learn more about mbuyu benefits has only just started. And I know there’s so much more to learn and to uncover about this amazing indigenous fruit.

Before I tell you more about the baobab fruit benefits. Let me tell you more about the baobab tree. 

Fun facts about the baobab tree 

Did you know that the mighty African baobab tree can live for over 6,000 years? The Baobab tree is one of the oldest living things on Earth. Its incredible longevity has rightfully earned it the title “Tree of Life.” You can just imagine, that this tree has witnessed centuries of history and stood tall through it all. It is truly inspiring to imagine the stories this ancient tree can tell.

The Baobab tree has distinct features that set it apart from other trees. Its trunk is typically smooth and grey, with a thick, distinctive shape and immense size, which is a sight to behold. Its trunk can reach up to 25 metres in diameter, making it one of the widest trees on Earth. During the dry season, the tree sheds its leaves, revealing its majestic form.

The tree is native to Africa and can be found in various countries such as South Africa, Senegal, Tanzania, and Madagascar. It is known for its distinctive look, with its thick trunk and branches that resemble roots. This tree is often considered sacred by African local communities.

There are 9 different species of the mighty baobab tree, each with its unique characteristics and habitats. Adansonia digitata and Adasonia Kilima are found in Africa and Adansonia gregorii is found in Australia. Additionally, Madagascar is home to six species, including Adansonia grandidieri, Adansonia rubrostipa, and Adansonia suarezensis.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Baobab tree is its resilience and adaptability. It can withstand harsh environmental conditions, including drought, extreme temperatures, and poor soil quality. The tree’s ability to store water in its trunk allows it to survive in arid regions where other plants struggle. Its deep root system helps it access water sources below the surface, ensuring its survival even during the driest of times. This remarkable resilience makes the Baobab tree a symbol of strength and endurance. 

Phew, that was a lot! Now the benefits. 

Health Benefits of Baobab Fruit 

One of the most impressive characteristics of baobab fruit is its high vitamin C content.  It contains six times more vitamin C than oranges! This powerful antioxidant helps boost our immune system, fights off harmful free radicals, and supports healthy skin. Incorporating baobab fruit into our diet can help ward off illnesses and keep us feeling energized and vibrant. In addition to vitamin C, baobab fruit is also a good source of potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron. These minerals are essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth, regulating blood pressure, supporting muscle function, and preventing anaemia.

Baobab powder boasts an impressive range of advantages for our health. Rich in antioxidants, this potent powder helps combat oxidative stress, keeping our cells healthy and vibrant. Scientific studies have shown that baobab may also help control blood sugar levels, making it an excellent addition to any diabetes-friendly diet.

Beyond its blood sugar benefits, baobab powder enhances our body’s ability to absorb crucial nutrients. With its high levels of polyphenols, this superfood improves the absorption of iron from plant-based sources, a boon for those following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. And for those of us wanting to kickstart our mornings with a nutritious boost, adding baobab powder to smoothies or fresh juice provides an additional punch of vitamins and minerals.

But perhaps the most intriguing benefit of baobab powder lies in its ability to reduce inflammation. As someone who regularly experiences muscle soreness after intense workouts, I was excited to find out this incredible quality. Research suggests that the baobab’s rich content of anti-inflammatory compounds can help alleviate discomfort, making it an ideal addition to an after-exercise routine.

Furthermore, baobab powder is known for its high fibre content. This dietary fibre promotes digestive health, aids in weight management, and helps prevent constipation. It also acts as a prebiotic, nourishing the beneficial bacteria in our gut and promoting a healthy gut microbiome.

The baobab tree is indeed a supertree that holds wisdom, strength, and nutrients. Its fruit is a powerhouse of nutrition, while its various other parts offer countless resources that can sustain us and future generations. By recognising the value of the baobab tree and utilising its potential, we can create a more sustainable and thriving world for all.

I hope this has been enlightening! 

FAQs on Baobab fruit