30 Jul Nature’s Cure: The Health Benefits of African Padauk Dried Bark Tea
African Padauk, also known as African Coralwood in reference to its vibrant burnt red colour, is a tree plant, native to Central and tropical West Africa and believed to have originated in Congo.
Scientifically referred to as Pterocarpus Soyauxii, these plants can grow up to 34m tall, with up to 13 leaflets, and bark tending to have a diameter of 1m.
With its various uses including food, clothing and cosmetic dye, the plant has become a staple in African households, not only in its use for furniture and musical instruments, but also as a pinnacle of traditional African Medicine.
Why is the African Padauk important in African Medicine?
African Padauk is incredibly versatile in its health benefits, most commonly being used to treat skin parasites and fungal infections.
The plant has become popular in the use of therapeutic oils and to be eaten simply as a leaf vegetable.
African Padauk Dried Bark Tea Flavour Profile
African Padauk has an expectedly woody and earthy taste and aroma, with a subtle hint of sweetness which perfectly balances out the moderate bitterness.
In a similar fashion to other bark teas, it can be described as a ‘green’ flavour, with herbal undertones.
Nutritional Properties of African Padauk
The African Padauk plant has an extensive nutritional profile:
Contains Isoflavones:
Isoflavones provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, support hormonal balance, helping to alleviate chronic inflammatory conditions and support overall health.
High in terpenoids:
Terpenoids offer antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunity-boosting properties, helping to fight infections and reduce inflammation.
Contains tannins:
Possess astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, aiding in wound healing, reducing inflammation, and protecting cells from oxidative stress.
Health Benefits of African Padauk Tea
Oftentimes, its edible leaves steal the show, failing to highlight the accessibility of the African Padauk Dried Bark Tea, a herbal tea made from harvesting, drying, and submerging the plant bark in boiling water.
From that process, emerges several health beneficial properties.
1. Reduces chronic inflammation
One of most common uses of African Padauk in traditional African medicine has been to reduce and relieve symptoms of inflammatory disorders such as arthritis, as well as the pain and uncomfortability of chronic inflammation caused by other diseases.
Flavonoids and Tannins, compounds also found in Green Tea, are found in the bark of the plant and work to inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators to act as antioxidants.
2. Relieves Digestive Issues
African Padauk reduces and alleviates stomach aches and discomfort by relaxing the gastrointestinal tract.
The antimicrobial properties support healthy gut bacteria, needed to optimise digestive function.
This makes the tea a popular choice for those with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) in need of relief from cramps and spasms.
3. Lowers risk of Chronic Illness
A richness in phenolic compounds contributes to African Padauk’s high level of antioxidants.
Antioxidants work to reduce the oxidation of stress in the body, which protects cells from damage, and therefore lowers the risk of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease or cancer.
4. Promotes Fast Recovery
There has been suggestion of faster recovery times from infection of wounds, which can be owed to the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties found in the tea, which contributes to maintaining healthy cell tissue, minimising swelling, and supporting immune health.
African Padauk has also been seen to support the bodys’ healing process by inhibiting bacterial growth to keep the wound clean and free from infection.
Stimulation of collagen production contributes towards the formation of skin regeneration.
5. Anti-Cancer properties
Notably, preliminary studies have suggested that African Padauk may also hold anti-cancer properties.
Whilst this research is still emerging, flavonoids and tannins, two prevalent bioactive compounds, have formerly shown evidence of inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.
How to Brew African Padauk Dried Bark Tea
Preparation of the tea is straightforward and easy, simply requiring boiling water and a strainer. Add 1-2 teaspoons of our African Padauk Dried Bark to 1 cup of boiling water.
Due to the subtle and mild flavour, lemon or honey can be added to enhance the sweetness of the tea.
Alternatively, sweet spices such as cinnamon, cardamom and ginger can be sprinkled in to enhance the earthy flavour of the tea.
Where to Buy African Padauk Dried Bark Tea
Curious about the earthy flavour of African Padauk Dried Bark tea? You can explore this tea along with its heap of health benefits below!
African Padauk Dried Bark Tea Potential Side Effects
Notably, there is a lack of research into African Padauk in the Western World.
To avoid potential side effects, it is advisable to perhaps start with a small amount of tea to see how your body reacts; always use it in moderation and pay attention to changes in your body.
Those who take medication should always consult with a doctor before drinking herbal teas, such as African Padauk Bark Tea.
Individuals should also make sure to avoid overconsumption of herbal teas to avoid damage to the liver or kidneys.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Due to a lack of research in the Western world, and is the case with most herbal teas, individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult with their doctors before consumption of African Padauk Dried Bark Tea.
What’s the Bottom Line on the Benefits of African Padauk Dried Bark Tea?
Nutrient-rich and aromatic, African Padauk Dried Bark Tea is beneficial for body cell maintenance, ensuring the regulation of the immune and digestive systems, and fighting against pain and infection.
The healing properties of several types of wood bark have been explored over centuries, and according to folklore, are praised for healing qualities and contribution to recovery from chronic illness.
The centuries-old natural medicinal qualities of African Padauk Dried Bark Tea make it a great option to relieve stress and inflammation throughout the body.
Want to explore more herbal teas? Click here!
An English Literature & Spanish student, with a passion for lifestyle, culture and communication science.
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