By CHISOM IBEMERE
African pear (Dacryodes edulis) is a fruit native to Western Africa and can be found in Southeastern part of Nigeria. It is also known as bush pear, Ube (in Igbo), African plum, or butter fruit. The fruit is a drupe whose length varies from 4cm to 12cm.
The skin of the African pear is pink when unripe but dark blue or purple when fully mature or ripped. It is enjoyed mostly with roasted or cooked corn.
African pear are very essential in fighting microorganisms in the body, this is because of the presence of antioxidants and antimicrobial activities. It contains phytochemicals that fights diseases in the body.
African pear fruit is rich in natural folic acid which are very beneficial for pregnant women or expectant mothers. Folic acids in African pear prevents birth defects also known as neural tube defects.
African pear helps boost immune system due to the presence of Vitamin C. They contain essential minerals like phosphorus and calcium that helps to strengthen the bones and teeth. They are rich in carbohydrates, folate, fibre, pantothenate, Vitamin B6, thiamine, ribloflavine and Vitamin C which helps in fighting free radicals from the body.
African pear has medicinal properties which are used for the treatment of wounds, dysentery, as well as skin infections. The pericarp is rich in minerals and oil that are best for the skin health.