Balanites aegyptiaca

Flora Palaestina Ethnobotany

florapal.org

Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Delile

Zygophyllaceae

  • Desert Date
  • Egyptian Balsam
  • Egyptian Myrobalan
  • Oil Tree
  • Simple-thorned Torchwood
  • Soapberry Tree
  • Thorn Tree
  • zaqqum زقوم
  • zaqum mitzri
  • זַקּוּם מִצְרִי

Tree

  • Desert
  •  Thermophilous plants
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Medicinal Complaints / Uses

Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Delile

System/State Traditional
Complaint/Use
Activity / Interpretation
Traditional
Preparation/ Administration
Parts Used
Source
Gastrointestinal

Abdominal pain

Carminative

Decoct roots & drink x1 cup/day as needed.

Root B
Gastrointestinal

Stomach ulcer

Anti-ulcer

Grind fresh fruits & eat + milk before breakfast for 40 days.

Fruit B
Gastrointestinal

Vomiting

Anti-emetic

Grind fresh fruits & eat + milk before breakfast for 40 days.

Fruit B
Wound Healing

Wound

Vulnerary

Extract fruits in boiling water, filter & apply to affected area.

Fruit B

The authors of FLORAPALE, (Flora Palaestina Ethnobotanical) web site do not take responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of the plants described here. Always seek advice from a health professional before using a plant medicinally or for other purposes. See DISCLAIMER.

Notes

Cautions

Balanites aegyptiaca leaves, fruit, bark & roots contain saponins, furanocoumarin & alkaloids (in the bark). Saponins are bitter & toxic but poorly absorbed & can be removed by leaching in running water & through cooking. Not advisable to eat large quantities. Furanocoumarin may be associated with photosensitizing dermatitis. Unsafe in high doses or over long periods.