5 Impressive Health Benefits of Brachystegia Eurycoma (Achi seeds)

The health benefits of Brachystegia Eurycoma Popular known as Achi seeds are not known by many, yet Achi seeds are the most consumed soup condiment in the Eastern part of Nigeria. Permit me to say our forefathers were very wise to have selected this particular seed for their soup condiments because it is fortified with several vitamins, minerals, and phytochemical compounds that play a vital role in our health and well-being.

Today, we shall get to know the health benefits of Brachystegia Eurycoma (Achi seeds) as well as the side effects of this wonderful seed. Before we dive deeper into the health benefits of Brachystegia Eurycoma (Achi seeds), let’s check its economic importance.

Economic Value Of Achi Seeds And Tree

Achi tree is a source of timber for furniture
Wood from its tree is a source of fuel
Seeds (Achi) are a source of food
Achi leaves serve as a source of feed for livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats.

Uses of Achi seeds

Brachystegia Eurycoma (Achi seeds) is indigenous to the Eastern part of Nigeria people use it as condiments for different kinds of soup, It can help make soup or stew thicker when mixed other with condiments.

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Nutrition

Achi seed is a nutritious seed packed with several vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals that are helpful to our health. Below nutritional value of Achi seeds.[1]

Nutrients

1. Protein
2. Fiber
3. Lipids
4. Ash
5. Carbohydrates

Minerals

1. Calcium
2. Magnesium
3. Potassium
4. Phosphorus
5. Sodium
6. Iron
7. Copper
8. Zinc

Vitamins

1. Ascorbic acid
2. Niacin (Nicotinic acid)
3. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
4. Thiamin (Vitamin B1)

Bioactive compounds (Phytochemicals)

1. Alkaloids
2. Flavonoids
3. Tannins
4. Saponins

Achi Tree

Achi tree grows to become very tall and huge and with a life span of more than a hundred years. It can be found majorly along riverbanks or swamps including dry lands in a place like local market squares, and village centers, and because of its generous large canopy-like structure formed by its branches people play and rest under its shades. It is believed to be both a domestic and forest plant because it can exist anywhere.

Brachystegia Eurycoma (Achi) Flour

Achi seeds are processed into flour to be used for various purposes majorly for food (soup condiments).

Preparation Achi seeds Flour

• 1. Gather a list of one cup or as desired.
• 2. Half-fry for 2 minutes: use the same methods for preparing ground nuts, this is for the brownish thin testa that coated the seed to be easily removed when watching it.
• 3. Soak the half-fried Achi seeds in water for 2-4 hours to completely soften the thin testa that coated the seed.
• 4. Filter the Soaked Achi seeds from the watch then wash it again until you completely remove the brownish coat on the seeds.
• 5. Sun dry it to remove moisture.
• 6. Proceed to grind it into dust with a grinding machine.
• 7. Once No 6 above is completed then your Achi seed flour is ready for use.

Benefits of Achi seeds.

Achi seeds are nutrient-packed seeds that are often neglected. Here are the impressive benefits of achi seeds

Inflammatory pain reliever.

Achi seed is believed to possess a strong analgesic that may help relieve antispasmodic symptoms and inflammatory pains.

May help boost Immunity.

The chemical screening of Achi seeds shows the presence of ascorbic acid that supplements vitamin C which is an antioxidant that helps in enhancing our body’s defense against foreign bodies.[2]

Improves body function and metabolism

Achi seeds contain essential vitamin B— a Riboflavin Helpful in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into energy that powers the body system. Study shows that this B vitamin “Riboflavin” is also helpful for the growth of the skin, as well as the function of the lining of the digestive tract, blood cells, and other vital organs.[3]

May help combat oxidative stress.

Flavonoids and tannins found in Achi seeds have antioxidant qualities that are essential for reducing cellular oxidative damage, including lipid peroxidation. Some investigations claim that tannins and related compounds can lessen the generation of superoxide radicals. The bactericidal activities of tannins are well established. Research also shows that flavonoids give protection against allergies, inflammation, platelet aggregation, germs, ulcers, hepatotoxins, viruses, and cancers. Tannins stopped the growth of several fungi, yeasts, bacteria, and viruses. [4, 5]

Promote Bone and Cardiovascular Health

Achi seeds are rich in calcium and magnesium, two elements that the body needs for normal bodily activities. Calcium is also essential for strong bones and teeth, and the two minerals work well together to support healthy bones. [6]. According to research, magnesium, which is a component of chlorophyll and is essential for the metabolism of calcium in the bones, may help reduce the risk of ischemic heart disease.[7]

Side effects Of Achi Seeds

When someone with a food allergy comes into contact with a particular food, they may experience severe reactions that might be deadly. As a result, the immune system of the body reacts, which can result in symptoms like hives, swelling of the lips or mouth, and breathing problems.
No incidence of an allergic response from eating Achi seeds has, however, been observed.
Therefore, it is crucial to seek the counsel of a skilled, certified and experienced naturopathic doctor.

Any negative consequences should be noted. If you have symptoms like nausea, vertigo, headache, or an upset stomach, cut back on the dosage or stop taking the herbal supplement altogether.

For allergic reactions, keep an eye out. due to difficulty breathing that might result from a strong allergic response. Dial your local emergency number if such a situation occurs to get help.

JC

JC is passionate about finding the impact of foods (feeding habits) on human fertility and reproductive health and a way to improve fertility.