Tetrapleura tetraptera: The Spice with Healing Power

Did you know that the common name “Aidan fruit” is actually from the Yoruba name “Aridan” which got transliterated? Won’t say much! Lol!

Traditional uses
Across West Africa, prekese is used as a home remedy for fever, cough, and malaria. It is often boiled into soups for women after childbirth to restore strength, reduce pain, and stimulate milk production. Decoctions of the pods are taken to manage high blood pressure, rheumatism, and intestinal problems.

Research has proven some of the medicinal properties. Though not exhaustive, these include

• Antimicrobial: Extracts of Tetrapleura inhibit bacterial and fungal growth, explaining its use in treating skin infections and digestive disorders.
• Anti-inflammatory and analgesic: Studies confirm its role in reducing pain and swelling, making it useful for arthritis and joint discomfort.
• Antihypertensive: Compounds in the fruit lower blood pressure and improve circulation, supporting traditional use in managing hypertension.
• Antidiabetic: Research shows it reduces blood glucose and protects pancreatic function.
• Hypolipidaemic: Research revealed that prekese exerts hypolipidaemic
• effect, and reduces body weight gain.
• Antioxidant: Rich in flavonoids and tannins, it protects cells against oxidative stress.
• Uterotonic: Traditionally given postpartum, it supports uterine contraction and recovery after delivery.

Though human trials regarding prekese is limited, laboratory studies confirm its antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and antioxidant actions and animal studies highlight its antihypertensive and analgesic effects.

Connection to Thorntina-74 (T-74)
What makes Tetrapleura tetraptera special in T-74 is how its properties complement Moringa. While Moringa strengthens nutrition, immunity, and liver health, Tetrapleura adds cardiovascular support, pain relief, and antimicrobial protection. Together, they don’t simply add up—they reinforce each other, creating a formula that bridges tradition with science. In T-74, prekese transforms from a household spice into a pillar of wellness.

REFERENCES

Adesina, S. K., Iwalewa, E. O., & Johnny, I. I. (2016). Tetrapleura tetraptera Taub-ethnopharmacology, chemistry, medicinal and nutritional values-a review. British Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 12(3), 1-22.

Mensah, R. Q., Adusei, S., Azupio, S., & Kwakye, R. (2024). Nutritive value, biological properties, health benefits and applications of Tetrapleura tetraptera: An updated comprehensive review. Heliyon, 10(6).