Baobab

Baobab Baobab belongs to the genus Adansonia, and there are nine species in this genus. Out of these, six are native to Madagascar. Other species are native to Africa, Arabian Peninsula, and one species is native to Australia. The Baobab plant is also widely grown in other parts of the world. Ancient travellers brought Baobab to India and other parts of Asia.¹

The Baobab plant is particularly known for its longevity. Both the leaves and fruit of the Baobab are in used as food additives or remedies in various parts of the world. In western nations, people use Baobab leaves as a dried powder for health benefits. Modern science has started to study Baobab’s chemical constituents, and it has been found to be rich in various vitamins, minerals, high-quality fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. Baobab also contains many other beneficial phytochemicals including phytosterols, flavonoids, amino acids, fatty acids, and so on.²^,³

Health Benefits of Baobab

Rich Source of Vitamins and Minerals

Although various combinations of vitamins and minerals are widely available in developed nations, natural vitamin and mineral sources have better bioavailability and are present in a chemical form that can be readily utilised by the body. Baobab is naturally rich in Vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, zinc, iron, Vitamin B6, and niacin.⁴
May Aid Weight Loss

Baobab can be included in a weight loss program as it may help in multiple ways. Studies show that 15 g of Baobab added to smoothies may help you to effectively satisfy your hunger. Baobab’s high fibre content may benefit gastrointestinal health. In addition, the vitamins and minerals contained in Baobab may help prevent deficiency of micronutrients in the body.⁵
Help Control Glucose Levels in Those Living with Diabetes

Studies show that high dietary fibre intake is inversely related to the incidence of metabolic disorders and cardiovascular problems. Studies of Baobab show that it can modify the digestion of starch and therefore influence blood sugar levels. It may be particularly good at preventing post meal spikes in the blood glucose level, and therefore reducing the requirement for insulin by the body.⁶^,⁷^,⁸
Reduces Inflammation and Prevents Cellular Damage

Baobab seems to be a potent antioxidant and good at lowering systemic inflammation. Low-grade systemic inflammation is known to cause worsening of various diseases like heart disorders, diabetes, dementia, and so on. Regular consumption of Baobab may help protect various organs from oxidative stress and reduce systemic inflammation.⁹
Good for Digestive Health

Studies show that low consumption of dietary fibre is one of the leading causes of the high prevalence of metabolic disorders among people living in developed countries. Baobab powder is an excellent source of dietary fibre and therefore may help prevent a range of health conditions. It may help relieve constipation, promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, and reduce the risk of inflammatory bowel disease.¹⁰
Help Reduce the Severity of Symptoms in Malaria

Malaria is a significant health hazard in some developing nations. Studies show that consumption of Baobab may help protect against certain strains of malaria, and slow down its progression.¹¹

Side Effects of Baobab

Baobab leaves, seeds, and fruit are widely consumed as part of a regular diet in various countries in Africa and does not seem to have any severe side effects.

Properties

Anti-Inflammatory⁹
Cardiovascular Support⁶^,⁷^,⁸
Constipation¹⁰
Diabetes / Blood Sugar⁶^,⁷^,⁸
Digestive Function¹⁰
Heart Support / Health⁶^,⁷^,⁸
High/Good Levels of B Vitamins⁴
High/Good Levels of Carbohydrates²^,³
High/Good Levels of Fibre²^,³
High/Good Levels of Flavonoids²^,³
High/Good Levels of Iron²^,³
High/Good Levels of Magnesium²^,³
High/Good Levels of Niacin⁴
High/Good Levels of Phytochemicals / Phytocompounds²^,³
High/Good Levels of Potassium⁴
High/Good Levels of Protein²^,³
High/Good Levels of Vitamin C⁴
High/Good Levels of Zinc⁴
Malaria Support¹¹
Weight Loss / Management⁵

References