However, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before using them, especially if one is on medications or has underlying health conditions. 9. Analgesic The fruit of X. aethiopica is also used as a reliever of pain caused by rheumatic conditions. It is also used as a tonic to improve fertility in women and is an essential ingredient in preparation of local soups to aid new mothers in breastfeeding. Grains of Selim could potentially reduce the swelling and pain associated with my joint issues, making daily tasks more manageable.

Antioxidants are compounds that inhibit oxidation. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that can produce free radicals, thereby leading to chain reactions that may damage the cells of organisms. The antioxidant properties in uda prevent and destroy the growth of cancer cells. A study which analyzed the composition and antioxidant property of the plant revealed that beta-Pinene was predominant in all cases, while trans-m-mentha-1,8-diene was the main compound in the essential oils of the leaves and the barks of roots and stems. Their potential antioxidant activity was also investigated and found to be significant in scavenging superoxide anion radical. This means that grains of Selim can help fight infections from these microorganisms. Antidepressant-like activities Its popularity may have been due to the brilliant name thought up for it by some advertising genius born before his times" observes Maguelonne Toussaint-Samat, Anthea Bell (tr.), The History of Food, revised ed., 2009, p. 446. Xylopia aethiopica seed extract increases antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, and also increased sperm concentration, count, and motility in the reproductive organs of adult Wistar rats with ethanol-induced oxidative conditions. Hence, the seed could prevent oxidative stress and improve fertility (Uloma B. Elvis-Offiah et al. 2020). From a humble street food origin, suya spice has taken a life of its own and is now used to add depth to a wide array of foods. The opportunities are boundless; sprinkle over food like you would other spice seasonings. So, if you're wondering what to eat with suya seasoning, here are some ideas.Their potential antimicrobial properties might help in fighting off harmful bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of dental issues. The compounds present in the grains could enhance insulin sensitivity or reduce glucose absorption, aiding in diabetes management. People also use powdered Selim pepper roots as dressings for skin wounds and cancers. You can also rub them on your gums for gum diseases and infections. Beyond their aromatic allure, a deeper exploration of their benefits and uses reveals a rich history of aiding respiratory health.

Baynes, T. S.; Smith, W. R., eds. (1880). "Grains of Paradise". Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol.11 (9thed.). New York: Charles Scribner's Sons. By inhibiting the growth of these microorganisms, the grains can support the body’s defense against infections. However, it’s crucial to pair their use with regular dental hygiene practices and consult a dentist for any oral concerns. The liver and the kidneys are some of the most essential and hardworking organs in the body. They carry out numerous functions such as excretion of waste, metabolism of many substances, hormonal regulation, and proper digestion, as well as proper coagulation. Research has shown that despite its many beneficial effects, Grains of Selim can be toxic. Findings from a study revealed that aqueous extract of Xylopia aethiopica (Negro peppers) possess some toxic effect on the liver and kidney. Indiscriminate ingestion of the extract of Xylopia aethiopica should be avoided. While many turn to Grains of Selim for relief, it’s always essential to consult with healthcare professionals for comprehensive care. 3. Female Reproductive HealthThe bark decoction is administered for the treatment of bronchitis, asthma, stomach-aches and dysenteric conditions and the infusion of the plant’s bark is used in the treatment of biliousness and fever. The mixture of Xylopia aethiopica bark with palm wine is useful in the management of rheumatism, asthma, and stomach-ache. The bark is also used as a postpartum tonic and also taken to promote fertility and to ease childbirth. In Senegal, The grains are a key ingredient in Touba-style coffee (called café Touba in French). Near the end of the roasting phase of making the coffee, grains of Selim, known in Wolof as djar, are added while the heat is still on. Roasting continues for approximately five more minutes; during this time the sneeze-producing scent of pepper becomes easily discernible. The potential anti-inflammatory properties of the grains might help reduce swelling and discomfort in the joints. It’s essential for readers to conduct their own research and consult with professionals or experts before making any decisions based on this content. You can crush the seeds of the grains of Selim/ Guinea pepper into a powder. This powder is topically applied to the forehead to treat headaches and neuralgia.

Both fresh, dried fruit, stem bark and root bark essential oils of Xylopia aethiopica has antimicrobial activity against gram-negative bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli, C. violaceum, and gram-positive bacteria, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus, and the yeast-like fungus Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger – Fleischer, et al., (2008).

Grains of Selim Facts

Xylopia aethiopica (Family Annonaceae) is a multipurpose tree that is very important in the local economy, supplying foods, a wide range of medicines, and wood. It remains an important traded plant species throughout parts of Africa, sold in local markets as a spice and medicine. The dried fruits of Xvlopia aethiopica; commonly referred to as ‘the grain of Seli’m are used as an herbal medicine. The tree is often cultivated near villages and often protected when growing in the forest. Lowland rainforest and moist fringe forest in the savanna zones of Africa, but largely found in West, Central and Southern Africa

They are often included in preparations for enemas and external uses calling on its revulsive properties for pains in the chest, sides, ribs etc., and generally for any painful area, lumbago, neuralgia and in the treatment of boils and skin eruptions. The relaxing properties of Grains of Selim or Hwentia or Sohcan aid in lowering tension and anxiety. Menstrual cycle is the hormonal process a woman’s body goes through each month to prepare for a possible pregnancy. Regular menstrual periods in the years between puberty and menopause are usually a sign that your body is working normally. Irregular or heavy, painful periods are not normal. Grains of Selim can alter the normal pattern of a woman’s monthly flow. According to research alterations in the estrous cycle, specifically, with prolonged diestrus, reductions in ovulation levels and implantation, as well as, abortifacient effect. Dietary Grains of Selim could be a good candidate for consideration as an oral contraceptive agent. Several medieval recipes are republished in Two Fifteenth-century Cookery-Books, Thomas Austin (ed,) Early English Texts Society, vol. 91 (1888) (cited in passing by Beichner 1961), under the names graynys of parise, graynis of parys, graynys of Perys, and simply graynis.

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An infusion of the plant's bark or fruit has been useful in the treatment of bronchitis and dysenteric conditions, or as a mouthwash to treat toothaches. It has also been used as a medicine for biliousness and febrile pains. The bark, when steeped in palm wine, is used to treat asthma, stomach-aches and rheumatism. [6]