The 31 Comprehensive Science-Backed Baobab Benefits
Contents:
What is Baobab? The 31 Comprehensive Science-Backed Baobab Benefits- Baobab is Excellent For Improving Your Digestive Health
- Baobab Gives Your Immune System a Boost
- Baobab Regulates Blood Sugar
- Baobab Helps the Body Absorb Iron
- Baobab is a Very Powerful Prebiotic
- Baobab Helps You Achieve Healthy Skin
- Baobab Assists with Blood Alkalizing
- Baobab Helps to Improve Circulation
- Baobab Can Lower Blood Pressure Levels
- Baobab Increases Bone Density and Strength
- Baobab is a Natural Treatment for Chronic Diseases
- Baobab Encourages Healthy Repair and Growth
- Baobab Significantly Reduces inflammation
- Baobab Repairs and Protects Your Cells
- Baobab and Cancer Prevention
- Baobab Prevents and Reduces Arthritis and Arthritis Inflammation
- Baobab Improves Your Brain Health
- Baobab Improves Dental Health
- Baobab Helps to Lose Weight
- Baobab Helps Pregnant Women
- Baobab Can Increase Energy Levels
- Baobab Has Pain Reliving Properties
- Baobab Is an Antipyretic
- Baobab Has Antiviral Properties
- Baobab Has Antimicrobial Properties
- Baobab Can Treat Diarrhoeal Disease
- Baobab Can Prevent Cataracts
- Baobab Promotes Heart Health
- Baobab Helps Regulate Body Fluids
- Baobab Treats Dry Scalp
- Baobab Promotes Strong Nails
What is Baobab?
What is Baobab? If you've never heard of this deciduous tree, you've most likely never heard of the benefits that come with using parts of this tree for your health. The African Baobab tree has nine different species that are primarily found in and around Africa and Madagascar. You can also find species in Asia. They're particularly important to Madagascar dry deciduous forests, and it's typically called the "tree of life." The people of these regions have used Baobab fruit and Baobab powder for dietary and health supplements for decades. It contains powerful properties that can help with a variety of common problems, and it's gaining attention around the world.The 31 Comprehensive Science-Backed Baobab Benefits
1. Baobab is Excellent For Improving Your Digestive Health
Did you know that Baobab has a high natural fibre count? It is packed full of insoluble and soluble fibres, Your body can't break down fibre like it can other carbohydrates, which means that it slows down and regulates your digestive system. Scientists measured the levels of fibre that are found in Baobab extracts. They found that 100 grams of extract have a fibre content that ranges between 50 and 52. This means that every time you eat Baobab fruit or Baobab powder, you're getting a large dose of fibre to keep your digestive system regular.2. Baobab Gives Your Immune System a Boost
No matter how healthy you are, your immune system could always use an additional boost of vitamins to help your body fight infections. Baobab powder is a great source of antioxidants, particularly vitamin C. Scientists studied several species of Baobab tree, and they found that the pulp is a great source of vitamin C. Roughly 40 grams of this pulp can contain between 84% to over 100% of your recommended daily vitamin C intake.3. Baobab Regulates Blood Sugar
Just over 5% of the population, have high blood sugar. Controlling it can be an issue, and a person's diet plays a huge role in how successful they are at keeping it at safe levels. The Oxford Brooks University performed studies to test how Baobab affects and improves digestive health. They took fruit extract from the Baobab tree and baked it into several loaves of bread. They found that the extract reduced glycemic response and starch digestion. In turn, this can help regulate your blood sugar.4. Baobab Helps the Body Absorb Iron
Over 30% of the world's population has an iron deficiency. What most people don't know is that you need a good level of vitamin C to help your body absorb iron. As we mentioned above, Baobab has a very rich and natural vitamin C content. Your body needs heme and nonheme iron, and vitamin C speeds up the absorption process. In a study, 32 pregnant women who had iron deficiencies were given different supplements with one being a control group. Three of the four groups received Baobab fruit pulp extract for six weeks in different amounts. At the end of the study, the three groups that had received the extract showed significant improvement in their iron levels.5. Baobab is a Very Powerful Prebiotic
Prebiotics are plant fibres that help to nourish the good strains of bacteria that are found in your digestive tract. You can find these prebiotics in dietary fibre, and you already know that Baobab contains high amounts of dietary fibre, almost 50% in a single daily dose. Scientists took samples from Baobab trees in east, south, and western Africa to analyse their nutrient content. They found that the location of the Baobab tree significantly impacted the nutrient count. Specifically, African Baobab trees found in Kenya showed the highest amounts of fibre at 8.68 grams per 100 grams of extract.6. Baobab Helps You Achieve Healthy Skin
As you age, your skin starts to show common signs like wrinkles, sagging, sun spots and more. It loses its elasticity, and years of exposure to sun, makeup, or chemicals can have a negative impact on your skin's overall health. Baobab oil can help to restore your skin, and it's amazing for your skin's health. Participants in a recent study found that putting Baobab oil on their faces helped with moisture retention. They reported that their skin felt tighter and less oily as well due to the high vitamin and nutrient content of the oil.7. Baobab Assists with Blood Alkalizing
Your blood alkalinity or pH level typically stays around 7.4, and this is considered neutral or baseline. Maintaining this level is widely considered to be a key point in better overall health and promoting longer lives. Eating foods with rich alkaline levels can help you maintain this optimal level. Baobab fruit and powder are widely considered to be one of the most alkaline foods available. It has a potential renal acid load of -52. This high amount can help to balance your body's pH levels. Studies showed that older participants who added high alkalinity foods to their diets had more balanced alkalinity levels in their bodies.8. Baobab Helps to Improve Circulation
The Baobab fruit contains a high level of vitamins and nutrients, and this includes a high iron count. Iron plays a critical role in helping the blood carry oxygen throughout the body. If there is enough iron in your diet, your circulation will improve. Baobab powder contains parts of the tree's leaves, bark, and pulp. These components have a very high mineral and vitamin count, particularly iron. Researchers found that the leaves are a staple food source for several regions in Africa, and these regions showed better overall health.9. Baobab Can Lower Blood Pressure Levels
High blood pressure refers to when the pressure of your blood against your veins runs high on a consistent basis. Potassium is a key factor that goes into controlling and regulating your blood pressure levels. Over the course of 33 randomised trials, scientists studied over 2,069 participants with high blood pressure. They found that potassium worked to drastically reduce high blood pressure levels in specific control groups. Since Baobab leaves contain high amounts of potassium, it makes sense that they help to reduce high blood pressure.10. Baobab Increases Bone Density and Strength
Dried Baobab powder from the tree's fruit contains a high level of minerals and vitamins. These include magnesium and calcium. These two agents play a key roll in maintaining and restoring bone strength and density. In fact, 99% of the calcium your body uses goes straight to your bones and teeth. Scientists randomly selected 20 fruits to study their mineral and vitamin components. They found that 100 grams of dried Baobab fruit powder had 34% calcium in its chemical makeup. This means that you can add it to your everyday diet to increase your calcium intake and improve your bone health.11. Baobab is a Natural Treatment for Chronic Diseases
Chronic diseases are the number one health problem for many of us. They are the leading causes of death, disability, and illness. A natural way to fight chronic diseases is by eating antioxidant-rich foods like Baobab. Baobab has an antioxidant count over 66% higher than oranges. Researches conducted several studies with people who had a chronic disease to see if antioxidants could help treat the symptoms. Antioxidants help to reduce the amount of oxidative stress your body builds up. When there is less oxidative stress, the common symptoms that go hand in hand with chronic diseases decrease or vanish.12. Baobab Encourages Healthy Repair and Growth
Vitamins A, E and F are the three main components that promote healthy skin, hair growth and repair. African Baobab tree leaves are a rich source of these vitamins. They help to repair damage to your hair by locking in moisture, and they also bring elasticity back to your skin for a youthful glow. In particular, researchers found that drying Baobab leaves in the sun before crushing them into powder can almost double the amount of Vitamin A found in the finished Baobab powder. Also, studies showed that higher concentrations of Vitamin C can help repair and restore skin, muscle, and bone health.13. Baobab Significantly Reduces inflammation
Inflammation is a common condition resulting from an injury or from a chronic disease like arthritis. Anti-inflammatory supplements and medications are one way to help combat the inflammation and pain associated with these issues. Baobab supplements are rich in antioxidants and common anti-inflammatory properties. As we mentioned earlier, Baobab leaves and powder contain high amounts of antioxidants. Studies show that 100 grams of dry, crushed Baobab leaves have an antioxidant count of 48.1. These antioxidants counteract oxidative stress, and this is what causes inflammation. People report reduced stiffness and inflammation after taking Baobab supplements or powders.14. Baobab Repairs and Protects Your Cells
As you age, you may notice that your skin is starting to look worn out, wrinkled or that it doesn't heal as well as it did when you were younger. This is because older people have lower levels of vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, and antioxidants present in their bodies. Clinical trials performed in Italy tested Baobab oil's efficiency at fighting inflammation and redness at the surface level of the skin and below. Participants found that the oil's high levels of Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids helped to show significant improvement over a four week period.15. Baobab and Cancer Prevention
Cancer is the leading cause of death in many western countries, which in many instances is largely attributed to dietary choice. A key to preventing cancer is reducing the amount of inflammation that is present in your body. Several intensive studies have linked cancer to inflammation and oxidative stress. Since Baobab supplements have such high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, it's a great tool to help prevent and reduce the chances of getting cancer. Particularly, crushed Baobab leaves that have been sun-dried retain many of their helpful properties.16. Baobab Prevents and Reduces Arthritis and Arthritis Inflammation
Arthritis is an autoimmune disease that can negatively affect a person's joints and tissues. Basically, the body's immune system starts attacking the body, and this can cause redness, swelling, pain, and inflammation in and around the joints. Baobab fruit or extracts made with the fruit come packed with anti-inflammatory agents. Researches studied Baobab bark, roots, and the fruit to find the highest concentrations of anti-inflammatory properties. They found that the high levels of Omega fatty acids combined with the high antioxidant levels in the African Baobab tree are effective at reducing and preventing inflammation in the joints and tissues. In turn, this can reduce the amount of stiffness, pain, and swelling arthritis sufferers have.17. Baobab Improves Your Brain Health
Did you know that high stress levels can wreak havoc on your cognitive functions? In fact, stress can cause you to forget things, have difficulty concentrating, and have confusion that can disrupt your everyday routine and life. Consuming Baobab powder or fruit can give your vitamin and mineral levels a boost, and this can help you keep your stress levels in check. Baobab is rich in Vitamin B, which helps to reduce your stress levels. A study took two groups of people who worked in a high-stress environment and performed a double-blind test over the course of six months. One group got a placebo, and the other group got a Vitamin B supplement. The group who got the Vitamin B supplement reported lower stress levels and higher cognitive function.18. Baobab Improves Dental Health
Baobab is an excellent source of calcium and Vitamin C. These are the two main agents that help to improve and maintain your dental health. Lack of either of these agents can lead to tooth weakness, sensitivity, and decay. Studies found that Baobab has up to two times more calcium than you find in milk. Adding this superfood to your daily diet can greatly improve the health of your teeth. You should see a decrease in any sensitivity you may have, and your teeth may start to look whiter as well.19. Baobab Helps to Lose Weight
For those trying to lose weight, Baobab is an excellent supplement. When most people go on a diet, they try to cut unhealthy things out of their diet, and this can lead to feeling hungry. Baobab helps people lose weight in two ways. First, adding Baobab to your diet can slow down the amount of sugar that your body absorbs. Studies prove that because your body absorbs less sugar, it can help to slow the pace at which you gain weight. Additionally, the higher fibre content can help you feel fuller for longer periods. This can help you cut back on the amount you eat per day, and this can lead to weight loss.20. Baobab Helps Pregnant Women
When you're pregnant, you need a higher amount of vitamins, nutrients, and things like iron and folic acid to ensure that your pregnancy stays healthy. Having high amounts of Vitamin C can help to ensure that your baby develops and grows normally. Baobab powder has high amounts of iron, folic acid, and a variety of vitamins to help ensure that mother and baby both stay healthy. Randomised testing split pregnant volunteers into two groups. One group got a placebo while the other group got an iron supplement. When they had their babies, the testing found that the group who got the iron supplement had babies with higher birth weights and lower incidences of premature birth weight.21. Baobab Can Increase Energy Levels
At one point during the day, it isn't unusual to have an energy crash and get sleepy. This typically happens in the early afternoon hours. Things like sitting still for hours, eating a carb-heavy lunch, or being mildly dehydrated can cause this energy crash. Eating a supplement of Baobab fruit, extract, or powder can improve your flagging energy levels. Testing showed that the seeds are rich in essential fats and protein. These two things can make you feel more alert throughout the day, and people in Africa have used them as an alternative energy source for decades.22. Baobab Has Pain Reliving Properties
The fruit pulp of the African Baobab tree has natural and powerful pain relieving properties. This is why various groups have used this pulp for decades to treat minor aches and pains associated with minor injuries, muscles strains, inflammation, and diarrhea. In particular, Baobab powder is especially effective for pain relief. Recently, scientists have found that rural communities in Africa use Baobab fruit, leaves, bark, pulp, and powder to help relieve the pain associated with childbirth. They also use it to treat abdominal pain, parasitic infections, and insect bites. The nutrients and antioxidant properties are thought to be the reason for these pain relieving properties.23. Baobab Is an Antipyretic
Baobab is also an antipyretic, and another common use for the African Baobab tree is to treat and reduce fever. In Africa, fever is typically associated with Malaria. However, fever also has other common causes. Baobab has properties that compare it to aspirin. When given to someone who has a fever, a Baobab supplement can help to reduce or eliminate it. It can chemically block the body's pain signals to reduce the inflammation you experience. It also works to block certain enzymes in your body that cause a fever to spike.24. Baobab Has Antiviral Properties
The leaves, seeds, and fruit pulp of the African Baobab tree contain antiviral properties. This means that they can effectively fight against herpes simplex, influenza, and several different respiratory viruses. In addition to this, it also gives your body a boost with the vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant content. Studies of the Baobab's fruit pulp, leaves and seeds showed that rural communities in Africa employ both traditional and homeopathic medicines to fight infections. Baobab is still one of the most popular dietary supplements because it keeps their immune systems strong.25. Baobab Has Antimicrobial Properties
The fruit pulp of the Baobab tree has powerful antimicrobial properties associated with it. People add this pulp to a fermented soy product called Tempeh, and they found that it stopped the growth of pathogenic bacteria like Streptococcus, Bacillus, E. coli, and Salmonella. Baobab fruit pulp also encouraged the growth of lactic acid bacteria. Lactic acid acts as a preservative to keep fermented food from growing harmful bacteria. This means that it can help improve the shelf life of different foods.26. Baobab Can Treat Diarrhoeal Disease
Around the world, there are roughly 1.7 billion cases of diarrhoeal disease diagnosed and treated each year. This common disease is the second leading cause of death for children aged five years old and younger. Baobab fruit pulp can help to prevent and treat this disease. As we mentioned earlier, Baobab has around a 50% to 52% fibre content, with almost equal amounts of insoluble and soluble fibre. It also contains citric acid, and these all help to combat diarrhoeal disease. The African Food Journal of Science noted that many communities value the African Baobab tree for this reason.27. Baobab Can Prevent Cataracts
Over 70% of the population aged 80 and up have cataracts, with many untreated. Eating certain foods can help to protect your eye health as you age and reduce your risk of developing cataracts. Research showed that having a diet that was rich in vitamins B and C and Omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce the risk of developing cataracts. One of the main Baobab benefits is that it contains very high levels of all of these things, and this allows it to help protect your vision.28. Baobab Promotes Heart Health
Cardiovascular disease affects so many of us, and it's a problem for both healthy and unhealthy people. People have started to focus on the heart health benefits of Baobab in recent years because the vitamin C and antioxidant content may prevent heart disease. One promising study showed that Baobab actually prevented laboratory rats from having long-lasting injuries due to cardiovascular disease. These findings show researchers that people can protect their hearts by eating antioxidant-rich foods. Additionally, they won't get the unwanted side effects that can come from taking medications to protect their heart.29. Baobab Helps Regulate Body Fluids
Cellulitis or swelling due to fluid retention is a common and uncomfortable medical condition. Not having the correct electrolyte balance in your body is one of the leading causes of developing cellulitis. Baobab can help to regulate your body fluids because it contains high levels of calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These are electrolytes that work to stimulate your nerves and muscles, and regulate your body fluids. In turn, the chance of experiencing fluid retention goes down. However, healthy people also have to worry about electrolyte loss, and having Baobab powder on hand is a good idea.30. Baobab Treats Dry Scalp
One Baobab benefit centres around your scalp. Dry scalp, dandruff, eczema, and such conditions can be irritating, and they seem to get worse in colder and drier temperatures. While there are a variety of reasons why you may end up with them, lack of fatty acids can be the main cause. Baobab oil can help both your scalp and your hair because it contains several fatty acids and vitamins that can work to repair cell damage. It has high levels of Vitamins A, B, and D to help nourish dry scalp and omega fatty acids 3, 6, and 9. Studies proved that these acids and vitamins help to give you healthier hair and scalp.31. Baobab Promotes Strong Nails
Cracked or dry nails can be extremely frustrating, and this is especially true if they just won't seem to grow no matter what you do. One of the main reasons people have trouble growing their nails is because they don't get enough protein in their diet, and nails are made up of a protein called alpha-keratin. One study showed that using Baobab oil as part of a routine can help to strengthen your nails and it also promotes healthy growth. It has a high moisture content that can help to nourish your nails and prevent cracking or splitting as well.Final Thoughts on The Baobab Benefits
These 31 Baobab benefits showcase how powerful this superfood can be. You can add it to your diet as a powder, use it topically for your skin, hair and nail health, or use it to help treat infections and inflammation. It's quickly gaining attention for everyday use because you don't get the side effects that you do with traditional medications or supplements. Consider adding this superfood to your diet today and experience the benefits for yourself!
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