Some Common Edible Medicinal Plants Found in Ghana

Senna Siamea Also known, as Siamese Cassia where its local name is, Abootre. They grow to be up to 60 ft tall and provide wonderful shade because of the tree’s dense foliage. It is part of the bean family Fabaceae, as it produces tender pods and edible seeds. Its leaves are also edible and are known to contain the active compound barakol. It is especially good at removing intestinal worms and preventing seizures in children. The dense inner part of the tree trunk is also used to act as a laxative and even treat scabies. Furthermore, its use in treatment of malaria is prevalent in Ghana, where its phytochemical compounds have been shown to be anti-malarial. Psidium Guajava If this looks familiar to you then you’re probably thinking it’s Guava, and yes, it is. In Ghana, guava is considered to be incredibly valuable and praised for its bountiful health benefits. It is part of the woody family Myrtaceae and once the fruit is ripe it is eaten raw and the leaves are typically consumed in teas. The leaves can be taken by boiling them in water where it can release vitamin C and flavonoids like quercetin that can reduce the risks of cancer, heart disease, asthma, and stroke. The leaves also contain anti-inflammatory agents, antibacterial agents, and even tannins that help defend the body from free radicals or oxidative stress. Although, in Ghana they are mostly used to treat measles, diarrhea, and small pox. Spondias Mombin These plants local name is Atoa but it also known as golden apple for their brightly colored fruit. The tree can grow up to 82 feet and has white flowers before it bears fruit. They’re grown for their fruit but also for ornamental reasons. It is part of the cashew family, Anacardiacea where its fruit, leaves, flowers, and bark used for its medicinal benefits. The bark, flowers, and leaves can be made into teas and are used to treat severe cough, hemorrhoids, gonorrhea, convulsion, dysentery, serve as a contraceptive, and even aid mothers facilitate child delivery. Its fruit can be consumed fresh or made into condiments like jellies or even juice. Moringa Oleifera Moringa oleifera has many names, some of them being, drumstick tree, miracle tree, horseradish tree, and most importantly has been deemed to be one of the most nutritious plants on Earth. Many parts of the plants can be used including its roots, seeds, leaves, twigs, stalks, and even bark. It was termed miracle tree because of its many vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Approximately one cup of fresh chopped leaves contains, protein, vitamin B6, vitamin C, iron, riboflavin, vitamin A, and even magnesium according to Healthline. It is rich in antioxidants, helps reduce inflammation, lowers cholesterol, and can help the body defend itself against arsenic toxicity that can be found in contaminated water bodies. This tree is incredibly important in Ghana as it helps local family’s combat malnutrition and achieve food security. Mondia Whitei Mondia Whitei, or white’s ginger, is an endangered, perennial, woody and resilient climbing plant that grows from a tuberous root. It a plant that locals recognize to be associated with symbols of peace and power. Its characterized by its pink and white flowers that have fruity yet unpleasant smell. Its leaves are heart shaped and its stems can be woven into ropes making it a versatile plant. Some local uses of this plant use the roots and leaves to make tea, ginger beer, powder, or mixed into food dishes. It is used to treat general aches and pains, improve sleep, hypertension, enhance urination, ease birth pains, and even allergies. The plant has great nutritional value as it contains the vitamins A, D, K and E, and the minerals, magnesium, zinc, iron, calcium and protein according to the South African National Biodiversity Institute. Sources : http://www.african-research.com and

Valuable Medicinal Plants in Ghana