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African locust bean popularly known as iru is of great importance in Nigeria as people rely on it as a source of food, traditional medicine and remedy for several ailments.

6 amazing health benefits of Iru (African locust bean) | Pulse Nigeria

omotolani

<h2>African locust bean popularly known as iru is of great importance in Nigeria as people rely on it as a source of food, traditional medicine and remedy for several ailments.</h2>

<p>Both the fruits, seeds, leaves, nuts, pods and essential oils of the African locust beans are highly valuable. The seeds, which are enclosed in the yellow pulp are <a href="http://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel-arts-culture/health-benefits-of-melon-egusi-id8242835.html">the most important</a> and the most widely used part of this plant.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ: </strong><a href="">5 diseases you never knew African Velvet Tamarind (Awin) could treat</a></p>

<p>These seeds are usually converted into an aromatic spice known as iru, ogiri or dawadawa.</p>

<p>Iru has a free radical reducing ability and is an antioxidant for detoxifying the body because the fruit has a remarkable amount of polyphenols that accounts greatly for its anti-oxidizing properties. The anti-oxidizing properties of the fruit extracts of iru are very similar to that of ascorbic acid.</p>

<p>The bark of the African locust beans can be crushed, ground, soaked and boiled for preparing herbal tea for treating and healing wounds.</p>

<h3>3. Treatment of Hypertension and Boosts the Immune System</h3>

<p>Yoruba's claim the fruits are normally used for treating hypertension and is useful for boosting the immune system, especially in immunocompromised individuals.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ: </strong><a href="">10 most surprising high-fibre foods</a></p>

<h3>4. Dermatological&nbsp;Properties</h3>

<p>The root, bark and leaves of the African locust beans can be infused, soaked and used for bathing by individuals suffering from skin infections.</p>

<p>It can also be applied to the skin to soothe burns.</p>

<h3>5. Treatment of Respiratory Infections</h3>

<p>It can be infused or soaked in liquid for treating respiratory infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, cold, cough and fever.</p>

<p>The patient has to drink and gargle on the concoction.</p>

<h3>6. Treatment of Gastrointestinal Disorders</h3>

<p>Iru is also a rich source of tannins and as such both the seeds, roots, stems, barks, fruits, flowers and leaves can be used for treating gastrointestinal diseases such as diarrhoea and ulcer.</p>

These are amazing health benefits of Iru. [kamkpemommy]

6 amazing health benefits of Iru (African locust bean)

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