When people talk about the benefits of trees, they only think of the fruits they bear. Fruits can be refreshing and very nutritious, but they are not the only part of the tree that are of benefit to us. Tree barks are also important as they provide various health benefits. One of such is the cashew tree barks. This article discusses the health benefits of cashew tree bark.
The cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale) is a tropical tree that can be found in many parts of South America and West Africa. The tree produces the cashew seed and the cashew apple fruit.
Cashew tree barks are the outer part of the cashew tree stem like you will find in other trees. The barks may appear useless, like just another part of the tree that would become timber, but this is not so. Cashew tree barks and leaves are used for making herbal concoctions due to their alleged health benefits, as they are thought to contain antifungal, antibacterial properties, as well as antioxidants.
In this article, we would be looking at some of the health benefits of cashew tree bark. Although there is limited scientific proof or support for any of the health benefits listed in this article, this has not stopped people from using cashew barks for various reasons. So, before you start talking cashew bark extract, be sure to talk to your doctor first.
A study on the phytochemical profile of cashew tree bark found that is contained eight compounds, including gallic acid, luteolin, epicatechin gallate, and agathisflavone.
1. Might be used to treat water
A 2022 study found out that tannins from cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale) bark can be used as a flocculant for water treatment. The study postulated that cashew tree bark might be used as an alternative water treatment.
2. Treats infection
The barks of the cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale) have been used for centuries in the traditional medicine of South America and West Africa for the treatment of infections.
One of the infections that is said to be treated with cashew tree bark is candidiasis. Cashew Tree bark contains biological compounds that fight microorganisms and possess antifungal properties.
3. May destroy cancer cells
According to studies, barks from Anacardium occidentale are capable of causing toxicity in cancer cells, that is, destroying cancer cells. Such biological actions stem from the chemical composition of the barks, which are phenolic compounds.
4. Anti-inflammatory properties
The bark of cashew tree also has anti-inflammatory properties. In a 2013 study, the stem bark of cashew tree display anti-inflammatory abilities. This means that cashew tree bark might be useful in the treatment of arthritis, aches, pains, and inflammation of the extremities. Although there’s no study in humans to confirm.
5. May help with diabetes control
The cashew fruit is one of the few fruits safe for people with diabetes due to its low sugar content. But the barks are also just as important as they have anti-diabetic properties and can help with blood sugar regulation.
6. Might be useful in hypertension control
Another benefit of cashew bark is that it helps to lower high blood pressure, which helps to keep hypertension away. Cashew barks contain magnesium, a mineral that is effective in lowering blood pressure. Soaking cashew bark in warm water and drinking would help to reduce high blood pressure levels in people at risk of hypertension.
7. May boost immunity
Drinking cashew bark extract also helps to boost immunity. This is due to the various antioxidants posited in the bark, as well as zinc, a mineral that strengthens the immune system. Antioxidants help get rid of free radicals in the body, which prevents diseases and also reduces the risk of cancer.
8. May prevent anaemia
People who are at risk of anaemia can drink cashew bark extract, which contains iron. Iron is a mineral that prevents anaemia, a condition that occurs when the blood does not have enough red blood cells, something that usually occurs due to iron deficiency.
Iron boosts the production of these red blood cells, lowering or preventing the risk of anaemia. Cashew barks also contain copper, which allows the body to absorb iron so that it can be used properly.
Although there many be many potential health benefits of cashew tree bark, there is little evidence or studies to ascertain the effects, especially on humans. Thus, never use cashew tree bark for any sort of treatment. Always ensure to consult with your doctor first before using any natural herbal treatment.
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Collins Nwokolo is a human physiologist, writer and health enthusiast. He loves writing helpful articles on health and fitness, which he enjoys sharing with everyone.