Botanical Overview
Adansonia digitata, commonly known as Baobab, Monkey bread tree, or Upside-down tree, belongs to the Malvaceae family. It is native to Sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar and introduced in parts of Australia. Various parts are used medicinally including the bark, leaves, fruit pulp, and seeds.
Energetics
The plant exhibits cooling temperature and moistening properties with astringent, bitter, and sour tastes. Its action is tonifying, particularly influencing bodily fluids.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Astringent
- Demulcent
- Nutritive
- Tonic
- Mild laxative
Indications
Western
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Inflammation
- Constipation
- Sore throat
- Skin irritations
- Nutritional deficiency
Syndromes
- Gastrointestinal inflammation
- Respiratory infections
- Immune support
- Malnutrition
Ayurveda
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Skin diseases
Syndromes
- Pitta imbalance
- Heat syndromes
- Digestive disorders
Unani
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Dysentery
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Hot diseases
- Inflammation
- Digestive issues
TCM
No specific indications documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemicals include ascorbic acid (vitamin C), flavonoids, polysaccharides, tannins, triterpenoids, and vitamins B complex and K, contributing to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and nutritive effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Leaf decoction: 5-10 g dried leaves, 1-3 times daily
- Fruit pulp powder: 5-15 g daily
- Seed oil: topical application as needed
- Bark decoction: 5-10 g dried bark for anti-inflammatory use
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe in traditional use. Pregnant women should exercise caution due to limited safety data. No significant drug interactions reported. Excessive intake should be avoided.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-documented planetary or elemental rulers identified in reputable sources.
Selected References
- Adansonia digitata (Baobab), Plants For A Future Database
- World Health Organization Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants – Volume 2, WHO, 2002
- Phytochemical and pharmacological review of Adansonia digitata, El Babili et al., 2008
- Handbook of African Medicinal Plants, Iwu M.M., 2014