Introduction
The pods of the tree, commonly referred to as locust beans, are pink in the beginning and turn dark brown when fully mature. Local research has shown that locust bean helps to promote good sight and drives away hypertension and diseases conditions like stroke and diabetes. It also contains tannins, astringent substances found in many plants. Foods rich in tannins are often recommended for treatment of diarrhoea.
Uses
Locust bean is a key ingredient in making:
- Powder
- Diabetes medicine
Production, export, import and consumption in Nigeria
Production = Unavailable, Import = 83,250 Export = 56,470. (Source: WITF (World Bank)2021
Growing Locust Beans
The trees can grow with little water and survive in dry soil, extended exposure to the sun, and in tropical climates. The locust bean tree can grow to more than 20 meters in height. It originates in latitudes between 5 degrees North and 15 degrees North.
Sowing and harvest period
The pods grow in bunches among spherical bright red flowers. These pods are harvested by using a long pole with a sharp attachment—usually a knife at the end of the pole. African locust bean is a long-lived perennial that starts flowering 5-7 years after planting. Flowering occurs during the dry season in the drier places.
Main Producing States in Nigeria.
- Oyo
- Osun
- Ogun.
Relevant Agencies in Nigeria.
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