Akuamma is another gift of nature with interesting effects on the body. The main role is played by the alkaloid akuammin found in the seeds of the Picralima nitida tree, which affects brain receptors and provides temporary relief from stress, pain, and tension. The substance is legal, but its dosage must not be exaggerated.
What kind of plant is it?
Akuamma is a shrubby tree native to West Africa. Akuamma refers to its main product – powder from the seeds of its fruit. The tree’s official name is Picralima nitida. It grows mainly around the rivers of West Africa, where it gets the moisture it needs. You will find it in Ghana, Cameroon, Congo, and Ivory Coast. It is a typical rainforest plant in West Africa with health effects that are unusual for us. For indigenous tribes, the tree is a cradle of health and first aid for injuries and other health problems.
The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall, but shorter trees are much more common. The Akuamma tree (Picralima nitida) blooms and bears fruit. Its fruits resemble coconuts. When opened, you will find pods full of seeds that are similar to pumpkin seeds. Powder from these dried seeds is the most common use of this tree. The fruits are harvested and the seeds are dried. They are then ground into a fine powder. Before this method of processing, the indigenous people of Africa chewed the seeds to extract their active ingredients. In addition to the seeds, they also used the leaves, bark, and pulp of the tree’s fruit, which also contain medicinal substances. They made decoctions, poultices, and ointments from them. However, not to the same extent as with the seeds. The seeds are the main part of this miraculous tree that is used.
History of its use
For people living in areas where Picralima nitida grows, this tree is like a green pharmacy. People have been coming to this tree for help since time immemorial. The seeds of the fruit were used primarily:
– as a remedy for dysentery (which can be fatal to local residents),
– to suppress the symptoms of malaria,
– to relieve fatigue,
– to reduce fever,
– for intestinal problems,
– to relieve pain.
Akuamma extract was used internally, but also externally in the form of a paste applied to wounds (for disinfection and better healing). Akuamma has anti-inflammatory properties. Indigenous tribes also used the tree in other ways, for example, its wood was used to make hunting equipment.
How is akuamma used today?
Today, akuamma is known as a powder for stimulation, invigoration, and mood enhancement. The alkaloids contained in the plant bind to opioid receptors in the brain, thereby exerting their effect. In addition to the above-mentioned effects, akuamma can also relieve pain and has a number of other scientifically proven effects. Although studies on akuamma extract are still ongoing, one thing is certain. Akuamma powder is very similar to kratom.
What does akuamma powder taste like?
The powder has a bitter taste, so many people mix it into food or drinks to neutralize it. Capsules containing pure extract are easier to consume.
In what forms is it available as a product?
Today, akuamma seed extract can be purchased in powder form, which can be added to food or drinks. Capsules filled with this extract are also available, offering easier use.
Differences and similarities between akuamma extract and kratom
The powder from the seeds of the Picralima nitida tree, also known as akuamma, has many similarities with kratom powder from the Mitragyna speciosa tree. However, there are also a number of differences. What are they?
– The tree from which akuamma extract is obtained grows in West Africa, while kratom is obtained from a tree that is native to Southeast Asia.
– Akuamma is a powder obtained from the seeds by drying and grinding them, while kratom is a powder obtained from dried crushed leaves.
– Kratom is currently much better known than akuamma.
– Both substances have a very similar history of use by indigenous tribes for a range of health problems. In both cases, the indigenous tribes first chewed the seeds (akuamma) and leaves (kratom) to obtain the medicinal substances before moving on to more effective processing methods.
– Both substances work on the same principle, whereby the alkaloids they contain bind to opioid receptors in the brain (however, akuamma and kratom contain different alkaloid compositions).
What substances does akuamma contain?
The most effective substance in the akuamma plant is an alkaloid called akuammin, which plays a major role in the plant’s effects on the body. The plant also contains other alkaloids, such as akuammidine, akuammicine, pericine, alstonine, and others. In addition, the plant (especially its seeds) contains flavonoids, tannins, polyphenols, proteins, terpenoids, steroids, glycosides, carbohydrates, fats, and minerals such as potassium, sodium, iron, and zinc.
What are the most common effects of the plant on the body?
The main effects of the plant, verified by numerous studies, include the following:
– analgesic,
– antipyretic,
– antidiabetic,
– antimalarial,
– spasmolytic (relieves intestinal spasms).
Specific health effects of akuamma extract
– The effects are highly subjective and vary from user to user,
– positively affects energy levels,
– can improve mood,
– provides temporary relief from minor pain,
– relieves stress and anxiety,
– induces a better mood,
– provides a feeling of relaxation,
– lowers blood pressure,
– acts against cramps,
– stops diarrhea,
– improves sleep,
– has anti-inflammatory effects,
– may reduce stomach acidity,
– may treat stomach ulcers.
Caution: pregnant women should not use it, as some studies suggest that akuamma powder has adverse effects on fetal development. Akuamma extract is also not intended for children.
Who can benefit from this plant?
– Because the plant acts as a very powerful relaxant and relieves stress, its extract is useful for people who do heavy physical and mental work, people under stress, and people who need to relax.
– The extract from the Picralima nitida plant can be tried by people who have trouble falling asleep and are light sleepers, as akuamma can improve their sleep.
– Long-term use can increase libido, so it can be used by those who are dealing with problems in this area.
– Akuamma can help with quitting smoking and other addictive substances (it acts on the brain’s opioid receptors and can alleviate withdrawal symptoms).
Where can it be purchased in the Czech Republic?
Akuamma powder can be purchased in specialized stores and online shops.
Brief summary
The Akuamma plant is another in a series of plants that have miraculous effects on the body. What indigenous tribes have used in their traditional medicine since time immemorial is now being discovered by modern society. Studies are still ongoing. However, a number of positive effects on human health are already known. The most common description of this substance so far is that it is a relaxant that relieves stress and induces a feeling of well-being. However, in time, we may find that this substance plays a major role in the treatment of difficult-to-treat diseases. Nature created it for a reason, so let’s wait and see.