Akpi Seeds (Ricinodendron heudelotii)

Akpi is a round, yellow-brown seed, similar to a rounded almond, botanically know as Ricinodendron heudelotii.

Ricinodendron is a plant that belongs to the family of Euphorbiaceae with only one main specie known as Ricinodendron heudelotii (Njangsa). Ricinodendron heudelotii is a fast-growing tree that is originally from Africa, precisely Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, Liberia, Tanzania, Senegal, Angola, Mozambique and Sudan.

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS - The dried seeds of akpi, contain an average per 100 g: water 6 g, energy 530 kcal, protein 21 g, fat 43 g, carbohydrate 23 g, Ca 611 mg, P 926 mg, Fe 0.4 mg, thiamin 10 μg, riboflavin and traces of niacin.

As can be seen, the seeds are very rich in both vitamins and minerals as well as protein.

This plant is highly cherished due to its flavoured seeds popularly known as njansang. Njansang is usually dried, ground and used as a local spice for flavouring and thickening food. Apart from being used a local spice, the njansang oily seed is also used for several medicinal purposes.

MEDICINAL BENEFITS - The extract from the bark of the tree is used by traditional doctors as an antidote against poison because the extracts are said to contain lupeol. It is also used to cure various diseases as cough, malaria, yellow fever, stomach pain, rheumatism etc. Other characteristics are aphrodisiac and anti-inflammatory properties. Seed husk and latex, leaf decoction and sap are also used to treat divers illnesses.

USES - Akpi is used mainly to season and thicken sauces, soups and fish broth. Its seeds are used to prepare a traditional seasoning, Edible oil is extracted from the seeds and a paste made by crushing dried kernels is sometimes used as a thickening agent for soups and stews.It is also used to make an oil with cosmetic, which is claimed to increase the butt and breast of women.

 . It can be used to treat constipation, eye infections and infertility.

. It can be used on skin for a softer, silky, firmer and younger looking skin.

. It is rich in proteins, oil and potassium.

HOW  TO PREPARE- To prepare the akpi seasoning, the pits are boiled so that they become easier. The akpi seeds are collected and then dried in the sun. When they are dry, they are grounded to obtain a powder. The obtained seasoning can be preserved for several years.