Bonduc nuts are known by many names in different parts of
the world where they grow. Some common names are fever nut, nickar nut,
nickernut, molucca nut, benga nut, nakkar bean and knicker bean but the botanical name is Caesalpinia bonduc. In
South West Nigeria, they are known as “omo ayo”, meaning ayo seeds. Ayo is a
popular game in South West Nigeria. They are also used for Oware game in the Caribbean, jewelry
and crafts. The seeds also produce oil
which is used to treat inflammatory conditions of the joints.
Bonduc nut plant is a climbing plant with nuts that are gray
or pale yellow in colour with smooth shiny surface. Different parts of the
plant are used for medicine in many areas where it grows because of some medicinal
properties below;
- Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Analgesic
- Anti-microbial
- Anticancer
- Hypoglycemic
- Hypotensive
- Febrifuge
- Astringent
- Anti-malaria
- Diuretic
- Diestive aid
The seeds, leaves, bark and roots are used for traditional
medicine. They are used to treat various ailments. Twenty of the ways they are used
are below.
- To reduce fevers and stop convulsions
- To treat body pains and aches
- To treat inflammatory issues like arthritis
- To treat respiratory issues like asthma, cough, catarrh and colds
- To treat skin disorders like boils, rashes, abscesses, etc.
- To alleviate liver issues
- To treat malaria and jaundice
- To treat smallpox and chickenpox
- To reduce the symptoms of menopause
- To reduce menstrual issues
- To increase male potency (aphrodisiac)
- To expel worms and kill intestinal parasites
- To treat dysentery and diarrhea
- To lower blood sugar levels
- To lower blood pressure levels
- To treat convulsion
- To treat elephantiasis and leprosy
- To treat urinary tract infections
- To treat toothache and for oral hygiene
- To remove bad body odour
Bonduc nuts are however toxic in high doses so you need to
be careful when using the seeds. It is best to use other parts orally if you
are not familiar with the usage. Start small and evaluate your outcomes before
increasing your dosage.
What is the name of bonduc nut where you live? What are the plant parts used for in your locality?
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