In depth look at a Baobab fruit as an ingredient

Baobab fruit powder is a nutrient-dense superfood derived from the iconic baobab trees of Africa and Australia. Revered for centuries for its medicinal and nutritional properties, baobab is now gaining global recognition for its rich content of vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants. In this article, we explore the health benefits and safety of baobab fruit powder and provide ideas on making the best use of this powerful supplement. 

What is Baobab Fruit Powder?

Baobab is a fruit that comes from large trees belonging to the Adansonia genus. The trees are native to sub-Saharan Africa and Australia, where they’re mostly found growing in seasonally arid areas. Their ability to survive these long, dry seasons and live for thousands of years has established them as symbols of strength and resilience. Some communities in Africa consider baobab trees sacred, believing they act as gateways between the living and spirit realms.

For thousands of years, the baobab tree has been valued for its importance as a food and medicine. In African traditional medicine, all parts of the plant, including the fruit and its seeds, have been used to treat a range of health conditions, such as fever, wounds, infections, and more. Baobab was introduced to Western markets through trade in the 18th century and has since gained popularity as a superfood.

Powdered baobab fruit is especially popular due to its nutritional density and convenience of use. Unlike most fruits, baobab is dried naturally in the sun whilst still attached to the branch, helping preserve its essential vitamins and minerals.

Nutritional Profile of Baobab Fruit Powder

What Are Antioxidants and Why Are They Important?

Antioxidants are molecules that protect your cells from oxidative stress, which is caused by an excess of harmful molecules called free radicals. Over time, oxidative stress contributes to aging and diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular problems. Baobab has an exceptionally high content of antioxidants, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, which helps promote overall health. 

High Vitamin C Content

Baobab is particularly high in vitamin C content. According to Healthline, a 10g serving of dried fruit powder provides around 33% of the daily recommended vitamin C intake.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and enhances the immune system's function, helping to fight infections. Moreover, vitamin C supports the production of collagen, a protein that provides structure for skin, joints, and bones. 

Rich in Potassium and Calcium

Baobab fruit powder also provides a relatively large amount of potassium and calcium, often surpassing that of more commonly consumed fruits. 

• Potassium: Supports muscle contraction, fluid balance, and nerve function. 

• Calcium: Crucial for muscle contraction, bone strength, and heart function.
  
  
  

Health Benefits of Baobab Powder

With a high nutrient profile and history of medical use, baobab fruit powder has been the subject of many scientific studies. Here's what the research says about its functional health benefits:

Anti-inflammatory Properties

Baobab fruit powder is rich in molecules that reduce inflammation at a cellular level, such as polyphenols. Chronic inflammation plays a key role in the aetiology of many diseases, including arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes.

In an early study, baobab fruit pulp extract was found to reduce inflammation-related swelling in the paws of rats. In another rat study, a similar extract also helped reduce inflammation linked to liver injury.

Digestive Health Support

Baobab is an excellent source of soluble fibre, with around 57.3g of soluble fibre per 100g in the fruit pulp. Soluble fibre helps slow down digestion and supports gut health by feeding the gut microbiome. It also helps improve bowel movements and can relieve constipation.

Since the fruit undergoes natural dehydration, much of the fibre is retained in dried fruit powder.  

Helps Regulate Blood Sugar Levels

The high fibre content of baobab fruit powder slows down the release of sugars into the bloodstream, helping manage energy levels. 

Moreover, studies show that baobab fruit powder can help lower resting blood sugar, making it potentially valuable for diabetes management. In a rat model of diabetes, those administered a daily dose of Baobab extract had significantly reduced blood glucose levels after two weeks. However, there is no evidence to date that baobab can treat diabetes in humans. 

Promotes Healthy Skin

Baobab fruit powder helps support healthy skin through different mechanisms:

• Antioxidants help protect skin cells from damage caused by environmental factors, such as UV radiation and pollution. This may help prevent wrinkles and premature skin ageing

• Vitamin C increases the production of collagen, which provides the skin with structure and elasticity

Improves Iron Absorption

Vitamin C in baobab enhances the absorption of non-heme iron, the form of iron found in plant-based foods. Iron is a key component of haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. 

By increasing haemoglobin function, baobab fruit powder could potentially reduce fatigue and support overall energy levels. It could prevent or help manage anaemia, a disease caused by a lack of iron. 

A study examined the impact of baobab on schoolchildren in rural Kenya, where iron deficiency is a common problem. Though results weren’t statistically significant, haemoglobin levels improved in children who supplemented with baobab fruit pulp compared to those who didn’t. 

Hepatoprotective (Helps Protect Liver Damage)

Baobab fruit powder has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help protect the liver from damage, as well as other vital organs. In a rat study, researchers found that paracetamol caused liver damage, evidenced by a drop in key liver enzymes. However, when rats were pretreated with baobab tree extract, this damage was prevented. The extract also reduced inflammation and cell death (necrosis) caused by paracetamol.

Aids in Post-Workout Recovery

Baobab may aid in recovery from exercise due to its rich nutrient profile. 

• Minerals like potassium and calcium are electrolytes, which are lost during sweating. Electrolytes help maintain the optimal water balance required for muscle cells to function properly.

• Polyphenols help reduce muscle soreness by improving energy production in the muscles and reducing inflammation.

• Vitamin C aids in tissue repair and recovery by increasing collagen, which is present in muscle tissue.

However, human studies are yet to prove that baobab fruit powder aids in post-workout recovery. 

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Baobab powder is generally considered safe, but like any supplement, it’s wise to be aware of a few potential side effects and precautions.

Antinutrients

Baobab contains natural compounds called antinutrients, such as tannins and oxalates, that can interfere with nutrient absorption when consumed in large amounts. These compounds can reduce the body's ability to absorb nutrients not only from baobab itself but also from other foods eaten throughout the day. 

However, when baobab is consumed in recommended amounts, the levels of antinutrients are typically not a concern. The powdered form of baobab fruit also tends to contain lower levels of these antinutrients.

Possible Side Effects of Baobab

• Mild digestive discomfort (e.g., bloating) if taken in high doses

• Possible laxative effects

• May interact with medications, especially those that influence electrolyte balance

• Potential to lower blood pressure 

Contraindications

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: While baobab has a history of traditional use, there is limited research on its safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It's best to consult with a healthcare provider.

• Medications (diuretics or antihypertensives): Baobab’s high potassium content may interact with medications that regulate fluid levels or blood pressure. However, there’s very little evidence about potential drug interactions.

• Low blood pressure: As it may slightly lower blood pressure, individuals already prone to hypotension should use it cautiously.

How to Use Baobab Powder Daily 

Why Choose NutriCraft Baobab Powder?

At NutriCraft, we source our baobab powder ethically and sustainably from trees in Ghana that have been growing for thousands of years. Our powder is dried naturally in the sun, without any unnecessary processing, so the whole nutrient profile is retained. The product contains no nasty preservatives or additives, and is third-party tested to guarantee its purity. 

Everyday Usage Tips

Baobab powder has a sweet, slightly tangy flavour, with hints of citrus. People often enjoy the taste, and it can complement a variety of sweet and savoury dishes. Some ways you could incorporate this powder into your everyday routine include:

• Adding 1-2 teaspoons to smoothies or protein shakes

• Stirring into yoghurt or porridge

• Mixing with water and lemon for a hydrating drink

• Stirring into salad dressings and sauces

Key Takeaways

• Baobab fruit powder is rich in antioxidants, fibre, and vitamin C, making it a valuable supplement for supporting overall health.

• Scientific studies suggest that baobab powder may help regulate blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and protect the liver, although more human research is needed.

• Its natural potassium and calcium content help replenish electrolytes, support muscle function, and may aid in post-workout recovery.

• Baobab powder is generally safe when used in moderation, but high doses may cause digestive upset or interact with certain medications.

If you want to explore the benefits of baobab, check out our range of organic fruit powder products. We offer a variety of package sizes at competitive prices — all without compromising on quality.