JOIN OUR PREKESE TEA CHALLENGE

Prekese is a source of copper to develop connective tissues, potassium to balance fluid levels within the body, vitamin C to strengthen the immune system, and magnesium to control optimal nerve functioning. The pods and seeds also provide some iron to build the protein hemoglobin for oxygen transport through the bloodstream, phosphorus to repair cell tissue, and other nutrients, including zinc and calcium. In natural medicines throughout West Africa, Prekese is crushed, boiled, soaked, or steeped into teas, tinctures, pastes, and other forms believed to help increase blood flow, remove bacteria from the stomach, reduce ulcers, and lessen the chance of asthma flare-ups. The pods are also thought to reduce hypertension and are given to new mothers to prevent post-pardon contractions and promote milk production. Prekese is beloved for its unusual fragrance. The pods are typically ground into a fine powder and are mixed with shea butter or palm kernel oil for use in soaps and skincare. Prekese is thought to have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties to improve complexion. The flowers and sections of the fruit are also infused into perfumes or used as a natural mosquito repellant.