Native to Southern Africa, the Marula tree (Sclerocarya Birrea) is a powerhouse of wellness, widely celebrated for its medicinal, nutritional, and cosmetic benefits. Used for centuries in traditional African medicine, every part of the Marula tree (be it fruit, bark, leaves, and oil) offers potent healing properties. Marula plant extracts are versatile and effective, from boosting immunity to enhancing skincare. In this article, we will explore the top health benefits of Marula, its traditional and modern uses, and share a simple Marula herbal tea decoction recipe you can try at home.
Marula Fruit Benefits For Health
A nutritional powerhouse, Marula is known for containing up to eight times more vitamin C than an orange, making it excellent for boosting the immune system and supporting collagen production for healthy, youthful skin. Rich in antioxidants, the fruit helps combat oxidative stress and supports overall wellness. Traditionally, Marula fruit has also been valued for its gentle effect on the digestive system, acting as a mild laxative, and is often consumed fresh or juiced to aid in hydration and energy replenishment, especially in hot climates.
Optimise The Overall Health And Well-being Of Your Family, Shop From Our Wide Spectrum Of Nutritional Supplements, Right Here!
What Are The Traditional Uses Of The Marula Plant?
The bark and leaves of the Marula tree have long played a vital role in traditional African medicine. Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, they are commonly used to relieve swelling, pain, and various forms of inflammation. The bark is particularly valued for its antimicrobial effects, often prepared as a decoction to treat infections and skin issues. In certain regions, Marula bark is also used as a traditional remedy for malaria, while bark infusions are frequently consumed to help with diarrhoea and gastrointestinal problems. Additionally, Marula bark is a popular choice in natural treatments for fever and cold symptoms, often brewed as a warm, soothing decoction.
Marula Extracts In Skincare
Here are some amazing benefits it provides to promote skin health
- Rich in Antioxidants: The herb brings many holistic benefits as it is high in many vitamins, especially Vitamin E and C.
- Anti-Ageing Properties: The fruit and bark extracts protect the skin from free radical damage.
- Moisturizing Benefits: Marula fruit is high in oleic acid and great for dry skin and hair.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Marula extract decoction can help soothe irritated or inflamed skin.
- Non-Comedogenic: The skin-benefitting components do not let the pores get clogged and hence is great for acne-prone skin.
Lesser-Known Uses of Marula For Bone Health And Fertility
Beyond its well-known medicinal and nutritional applications, the Marula tree holds a special place in many African cultural and healing traditions. In several communities, Marula is believed to support bone strength and joint health, with regular use thought to help maintain mobility and reduce the risk of age-related bone issues. The bark and roots have also been traditionally used in fertility treatments, where they are prepared as tonics or decoctions to support reproductive health in both men and women. Another notable use of Marula in traditional medicine is as a snakebite remedy. In certain regions, bark extracts are applied topically to neutralize venom and reduce inflammation.
How To Make Marula Herbal Tea
A Marula decoction is a traditional herbal preparation made by simmering the bark or leaves to extract their beneficial compounds. It is commonly used for digestive support, immune boosting, reducing fever, and general wellness. Here is a simple Marula tea preparation recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 or 2 teaspoons of dried Marula bark or leaves
- 2 cups of water
- A slice of fresh ginger, lemon, or a bit of honey for added flavour
Method:
- Rinse the bark or its leaves thoroughly
- Bring 2 cups of water to a gentle boil in a small pot
- Add the dried bark or leaves to the boiling water
- Let the mixture simmer gently for about fifteen minutes to extract most medicinal properties
- Remove from the heat and strain into a cup
- Add a teaspoon of honey or squeeze some lemon juice if desired.
- Drink once or twice daily, depending on your purpose
A Word Of Caution
Always consult with a healthcare provider if pregnant, breastfeeding, or using other medications alongside.
(This content is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Preeti Sharma
Preeti Sharma has a Master's in Electronic Media and Mass Communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.
References:
Physicochemical properties and antioxidant activities of marula fruit (Sclerocarya birrea subsp. Caffra) steamed and boiled before juice extraction
Mokoena Z Dorothy
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10420766/
Skincare Bootcamp: The Evolving Role of Skincare
Katie Rodan, MD, Kathy Fields, MD, George Majewski, and Timothy Falla, PhDcorresponding
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5172479/
https://www.scholarena.com/journals/journal-of-dermatology-and-skin-care/jhome.php
