The Prunus africana tree, also widely known by the name 'Pygeum' and commonly referred to as the African cherry or African plum, is a species native to the montane forests of sub-Saharan Africa. For centuries, various parts of this tree have been utilized in traditional African medicine to treat a multitude of ailments, from urinary disorders to fever. However, its potential edibility for humans is a topic that requires careful consideration, as not all parts are safe for consumption.
The Edible Fruit Pulp
For humans, the only edible part of the Prunus africana is the fruit's fleshy pulp, and even this must be handled with caution. In certain parts of Africa, notably in some Nigerian communities, the fruit is considered a 'blessing fruit' and is safely consumed. The fruit is described as having a chewable, edible skin that changes from green to orange as it ripens, covering a sweet fruit pulp. These fruits are recognized for their nutritional benefits, containing vitamins, minerals, and a higher vitamin C content than oranges.
Indigenous knowledge and traditional practices are key to safely consuming the fruit. Consumers in these regions understand the difference between the edible pulp and the toxic seed, often scooping out the creamy flesh for consumption while discarding the dangerous pit. The edibility of the pulp stands in contrast to the rest of the tree, which contains potentially harmful compounds.
The Toxic Parts: Seeds and Bark
Belonging to the Prunus genus, the African cherry shares a trait with many of its cousins, like almonds and apricots: the presence of cyanogenic glycosides. These compounds are primarily concentrated in the seeds, leaves, and bark, and can release toxic hydrogen cyanide when crushed or digested. It is therefore extremely important to avoid ingesting the seeds, as they pose a significant health risk.
Beyond the seeds, the tree's bark is the source of the well-known medicinal extract Pygeum. While this extract is used in herbal medicine, primarily for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), it should not be treated as a foodstuff. As with many concentrated herbal extracts, misuse or very high doses can lead to adverse effects, including potential liver and kidney damage, as observed in animal studies.
Medicinal Use vs. Edible Use
It is crucial to differentiate between the traditional edible use of the fruit pulp and the medicinal use of the bark. Traditional medicine has long recognized the therapeutic properties of the bark, but these uses are distinctly separate from food consumption. The popularity of Pygeum has led to concerns about overharvesting of the tree's bark, highlighting the need for sustainable practices.
Ethnomedicinal Use Cases for Prunus africana
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): The bark extract is a prominent remedy for BPH, helping to relieve associated urinary symptoms.
- Anti-inflammatory: Extracts from the bark and leaves are traditionally used to combat inflammation.
- Antimicrobial: Historically, the plant's extracts have been employed against chest infections and diarrhea, supported by research confirming its antimicrobial properties.
- Wound Healing: The bark is sometimes used topically as a wound dressing.
- Fever and Malaria: In some traditions, infusions or decoctions of the leaves and bark are used to treat fever and malaria.
Comparison of Prunus africana vs. Common Prunus Species
| Feature | Prunus africana (African Cherry) | Prunus dulcis (Almond) | Prunus avium (Sweet Cherry) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edible Parts | Fruit pulp (fleshy mesocarp) | Kernel (sweet variety) | Fruit pulp |
| Toxic Parts | Seeds, leaves, bark | Kernels (bitter variety), leaves, twigs | Seeds, leaves, stems |
| Toxic Compound | Cyanogenic glycosides (e.g., amygdalin) | Cyanogenic glycosides (e.g., amygdalin) | Cyanogenic glycosides |
| Common Use | Medicinal (bark extract for BPH) and food (fruit pulp) | Food (nuts, marzipan, oil) | Food (fresh fruit, juice, pies) |
| Conservation Status | Vulnerable due to overharvesting of bark | Cultivated widely | Cultivated widely |
Safe Handling and Consumption
To safely enjoy the fruit of Prunus africana, proper handling is non-negotiable. Only the fleshy, ripe fruit pulp should be consumed. The hard, central pit, like those in other Prunus relatives, contains toxic compounds and must be discarded. Under no circumstances should the leaves, bark, or seeds be eaten. Due to the high demand for medicinal Pygeum extract, sourcing the fruit can be difficult outside of its native range. For those interested in the plant's medicinal properties, it is best to use commercially prepared and standardized supplements, rather than attempting to prepare herbal remedies from wild-sourced plant parts, which is extremely dangerous.
Conclusion: Informed Caution is Key
The question of "is Prunus africana edible?" highlights the importance of distinguishing between a plant's various parts and their respective uses. While the fruit's pulp is safely consumed by people and animals in its native habitats, the seeds and bark contain toxic compounds that are not suitable for eating. The tree's primary modern value lies in its bark extract, Pygeum, used for medicinal purposes, a practice that must be balanced with conservation efforts to protect this vulnerable species. Therefore, if encountered, the African cherry should be treated with knowledge and respect, enjoying its fruit only if handled correctly and never consuming the toxic seed or bark. For more information on the tree's overexploitation, see Prunus africana: A Reality Check.
