An overview of the beneficial attributes and usage of Aduwa (<i>Balanites aegyptiaca</i>) in Foods and medicinal medicine

Abstract

Aduwa (Balanites eagyptiaca) is also called desert dates in English. It is a thorny plant species which dwells in the drier parts of Africa down to the Arabian Gulf and some parts of Asia. Locally, the Aduwa fruit is eaten as snack, while the seed are used in oil extraction. The drawback of Aduwa fruits is the distinctive pungent taste which makes the fruit unpalatable to many people. Despite the pungent taste of the fruit, the Aduwa fruit contains many other functional compounds like polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, steroids and saponins a structurally complex phytochemicals which is important in the human body. Both the Aduwa pulp, leaves and seeds contain important nutrients like carbohydrate (8-62%), protein (9-32%), lipid content of 2-49% and dietary fibre (2-30%). Other nutrients like vitamins and minerals are also present in the Aduwa parts. This paper presents a review on Aduwa plant parts with regard to science and traditions. Discussions on the medicinal compound and medicinal application, food application and phytochemical compounds are equally presented. The paper finally concludes with the potential use of the plant in functional food application.