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Marula Fruit? An Exotic Fruit Native to Southern African Countries with Several Health Benefits

So, What IS Marula Fruit?


The Marula Fruit (Sclerocarya birrea) is a medium-sized deciduous fruit and belongs to the same family as the cashew, sumac, pistachio and mango. It's native to sub-Saharan Africa in countries such as: South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Mozambique.


The Marula Tree is, in-fact, a magical tree, where every element of the tree has historically been used by rural villages to treat ailments for centuries.


The Tree Bark - is analgesic; anti-inflammatory; treats stomach-pains as well as labour pains; used as a treatment and a prophylaxis for malaria; and if chewed, helps with indigestion and treats heartburn


The Tree Roots - can be pounded up with water to be drunk as a schistosomiasis; this root water can also be used to treat scabies; and used as a treatment for sore eyes.


The Tree Leaves - used as a dressing over open wounds and skin eruptions; can be chewed as a treatment for coughs; boiled marula leaves are believed to be effective in the treatment of gonorrhea; and chewing on the leaves helps relieve heartburn.


The Tree's Fruits - keep reading the article to find out!


The Marula Fruit is known to boast several health benefits such as:


1. HAS 8 TIMES MORE VITAMIN C THAN AN ORANGE


Yes! The tiny marula fruit holds 8 times more vitamin C than an orange - which in turn supports healthy skin; improved hair growth, improved vision and all other benefits that comes along from consuming an orange...but amplified.


2. PROMOTES HEALTHY BONES


Consuming the fruit helps to promote strong bones and is known to delay osteoporosis due to its high content of calcium, potassium and magnesium - a fantastic alternative to dairy products for those who are vegan, lactose intolerant or who just don't enjoy dairy products. .


3. IMPROVES BRAIN FUNCTION


The high levels of oleic acid in the pulp have been known to improve brain function, making this one of the most important benefits of the Marula Fruit. Maybe the saying should change to, a marula day keeps the doctor away?


4. DELAYS AGEING


The high levels of different antioxidants, especially Oleic Acid, and vitamin C in the pulp of the fruit have proven to slow down ageing. Other antioxidants in the fruit, such as polyphenols, also offer an added boost to delayed ageing. A great swap for those who don't enjoy red wine or do not enjoy indulging in alcohol consumption.


5. BOOSTS IMMUNITY


The Marula Fruit's antioxidant level is believed to boost immunity. This could be due to its high vitamin C content amongst other antioxidants. This helps the body fight several harmful bacteria and diseases. If only we had discovered this fantastic fruit at the start of the Covid-19 Pandemic!


6. REDUCES RISK OF CANCER


Consumption of the fruit may reduce the risk of cancer due to its incredibly high levels of different antioxidants. The fruit and elements extracted from the fruit are known as a powerful form of anti-cancer treatment1 The fruit is supported by Oleic Acid, which is known to reduce the risk of cancers, such as breast and lung cancer.


Still Curious?


Marula Fruit's nutritional breakdown rivals many other fruits that have been known as a 'superfood' . Check out this post that we published which breaks down all the different vitamins, minerals and health goodies which this extraordinary fruit boasts.


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