Herbs, Plants, Trees and Roots | July, 2011

You entered Gum Acacia, the more common name is...

The gum is used to sooth and treat inflammations of the skin and intestines. It’s astringent properties are believed to be effective in treating diarrhea, excessive bleeding, leprosy, coughs, sore throats, gonorrhea, bronchitis, typhoid fever as well as upper respiratory infections.<br />
The bark and roots of this tree are used to make strong ropes and cords and the wood is turned into handles for tools and parts for weaving looms. <br />

Acacia

SCIENTIFIC NAME:
(Acacia senegal L.)


Native to Africa, Pakistan, Oman and northwestern India, Acacia has leaf-stalks (petioles) that are vertically flattened and act as leaves (phyllodes). Its small flowers have five petals and are mostly yellow or cream in color. However, some species have white, purple or red flowers. Oblong pods contain edible seeds. The stem of the plant emanates gum from December through May. This gum is known as Gum Arabic.



Common Names:

Egyptian thorn, Gum acacia, Gum Arabic, Cape gum, Gum Arabic tree, India gum tree, Bablah pods, Acacia Bambolah


Uses:

The gum is used to sooth and treat inflammations of the skin and intestines. It’s astringent properties are believed to be effective in treating diarrhea, excessive bleeding, leprosy, coughs, sore throats, gonorrhea, bronchitis, typhoid fever as well as upper respiratory infections.
The bark and roots of this tree are used to make strong ropes and cords and the wood is turned into handles for tools and parts for weaving looms.



Applications:

Mucilage:
Dissolved Gum Arabic in water to make mucilage. Take 1 to 4 tsp.

Syrup:
To make syrup, mix 1 part mucilage added to 3 parts of your favorite syrup. Take 1-4 tsp. of mixed syrup.


Warnings:

With any herb, there is the risk of an allergic reaction. Small children and pregnant women should use additional caution when considering the use of herbal remedies.