Tetrapleura tetraptera
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Scientific
Classification:
Synonyms: Adenanthera tetraptera Schumacher
& Thonning; Entada tetraptera (Schumacher & Thonning) Roberty Common names: Gum tree (English), Oshosho,
Obogolo (Igbo), Aridan, Aid an (Yoruba), Eseyeseye, Ighimiaka (Edo) Species ID: NMP-183;wfo-0000171351;NCBI_Taxonomy ID: 148728 Basic
Description:
Tetrapleura tetraptera, commonly known as the Aidan tree or Prekese, is a
deciduous tree that can grow up to 25 meters tall. The trunk is slender and
straight with reddish-scented slash. The leaves are bipinnately compound, with
up to 5-9 pinnae, each bearing 12-24 leaflets. The inflorescence is arranged in
spike-like racemes, and the flowers range from pinkish cream to orange brown.
The fruit is a shiny dark brown to almost black pod with four wing-like ridges,
two of which are hard and woody, and two are softer with edible pulp. Distribution
and Habitat:
Tetrapleura tetraptera is native to tropical Africa, found from Senegal and
Ghana in the west to Sudan and Kenya in the east, and southwards to Angola and
Tanzania. It thrives in rainforests and secondary forests, often at elevations
up to 1,400 meters. Medicinal
Properties:
Tetrapleura tetraptera is highly valued for its medicinal properties:
Toxicity: Tetrapleura tetraptera is generally
considered safe for use, with no significant toxicity reported. However, like
all medicinal plants, it should be used under appropriate guidance to avoid
potential adverse effects. Additional
Information:
The fruit of Tetrapleura tetraptera is commonly used as a spice, particularly
in soups such as palm nut soup, due to its sweet fragrance. The plant also
contributes to local economies by providing income through its various uses and
benefits, including food security and health applications.
References:
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