Uses & Benefits of Allanblackia Oil

The use of the fat in soap has been suggested (Foma). The timber is suitable for use under damp conditions and finds use in Ghana for bridge piers and pit props. The pounded bark is used for medicinal purposes, in Ghana for example as a pain reliever, for tooth ache, and to treat diarrhoea (Abbiw).

In southern Africa, oil extracted from the Allanblackia tree has long been used by local communities as a moisturizer and massage oil for babies. It has also had an important role in local diets. Recently, big business has also discovered its value, using it to make a wide range of cosmetic products.

Other Traditional uses

The oil is obtained from the seeds of the fruits. In Ghana (and elsewhere) the oil has traditionally had a number of uses which persist today. The oil is used for cooking and for making soap, similar to Elaeis palm oil, although Allanblackia oil has a higher melting point, and in cooking it can congeal before the food is eaten.

Hunters also appreciate the tree, as the fallen fruits are very attractive to numerous animals, such as the brush tailed porcupine and various rodents, and so they either place their snares or wait around the trees, or remove the fruits for use elsewhere as bait.