The Sausage Tree (Kigelia Africana): Uses, Benefits, and Folklore
- BeyondForest
- Sep 25, 2024
- 10 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Image of Kigelia africana or the sausage tree in serengeti national park
In this post we are going to look at
2.)Characteristics of the Kigelia Africana / sausage tree
5.)Kigelia Africana Tree Propagation
6.)Kigelia Africana Climatic Conditions
7.)Kigelia Africana Habitat and Distribution
10.)Where To Buy Kigelia Africana Tree Seedlings
11.)Kigelia Africana Traditional Folklore
12.)Kigelia Africana Medicinal Benefits
The Kikuyu use the fruit to prepare a local brew known as Muratina which is drunk in occasions like weddings, dowry, burials etc.
Image of a Kigelia Africana Tree
Unripe Kigelia Africana fruits are poisonous
The sausage tree (Kigelia africana) is an intriguing and unique species native to the African continent, known for its striking appearance and rich cultural significance. The Kigelia Africana is a Tropical tree 60 feet tall, native to South and East Africa. The tree has a thick trunk with grey bark, and a beautifully rounded profile. It bears deep red flowers which give way to enormous, pendulous fruits attaining a length of up to 3 feet.
Muratina seeds have a hard shell. They need fire or the right conditions in the wild to sprout.
Image of Kigelia African Tree by Angellar Musyimbi on Kiambu road
In the earlier stages of their growth, the shape is decidedly phallic, but they eventually come to resemble sausages hanging from the sausage maker butchery. The seeds, which are found embedded in the fibrous pulp of the fruit, are used in Africa as a famine food .
In Luhya Language the Kigelia Africana Brew Is Known As Murambe
This tree, belonging to the Bignoniaceae family, is not only notable for its distinctive sausage-shaped fruits but also for its ecological contributions, medicinal uses, and cultural importance among various African communities.
Characteristics of the Sausage Tree/Muratina Tree
I was never told why but the Agikuyu didn't pick the fruit off the Kigelia Africana tree you'd have to wait until it fell on it's own to pick. -Waweru Ndungu
Image of Kigelia Africana Flowers
The sausage tree is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall. Its trunk is usually thick and can reach a diameter of about 1 meter. The tree has a broad crown, with long, arching branches that create a striking silhouette against the African sky. The bark is rough and grey, often fissured.
The Kigelia Africana tree has a rather invasive root system and should not be planted close to buildings.
Image of Kigelia Africana Seed Pods by Basil Otieno
One of the most remarkable features of the sausage tree is its large, bell-shaped flowers. These flowers are typically around 10 to 15 centimeters in length and can be a striking shade of purple, red, or cream. They bloom at night, attracting pollinators such as bats and moths, which are crucial for the tree’s reproduction.
Kigelia Africana seeds are roasted and used as a famine food.
Image of a Giant sausage tree in Serengeti National Park by adityadickysin
The Kigelia Africana Tree has been named Mà-nàmbeliôn meaning an Elephant can't touch!-Shadrack Chelanga
In English it is referred to as the Sausage tree,In Turkana Language it is referred to as Ethaali or Edoht In Kamba language it is known as Muatine Tree or Kaluvu Tree ,In Kikuyu Language it is referred to as Muratina Tree ,In Kipsigis language it is referred to as Ratuinet Tree ,In Luhya language it is referred to as Kumufungu Tree,
Image of a Kigelia Africana Seedling by Joy Nzisa
In Luo it is referred to as Yago Tree ,In Maasai Language it is referred to as Oldarpo Tree .In Luganda the Tree is referred to as Omussa. It is referred to as Bulangu in Nigeria
Kigelia Africana seeds eaten raw is man's fertility
Image of Muratina being ofloaded to abucket by Captain Green on Facebook
In Marakwet language it is referred to as Rotio Tree ,In Meru language it is referred to as Muratina Tree ,In Nandi language it is referred to as Ratinuet Tree .In Orma Language it is referred to as Bogh Tree .In Pokomo it is referred to as Mbwoka Tree ,In Pokot it is referred to as Roti Tree .In Burundi it is known as Umeramera,In Kisii language it is referred to as Omoribe
In Mozambique Language it is called mvunguti Tree as it is used to enlarge the penis
In Rendile language it is referred to as Muun, In Samburu language it is refered to as Lmomoi Tree, In Somali language it is referred to as Bukuraal Tree ,In Swahili Language it is referred to as Mwengea Tree, In Taita Language it is referred to as Mwasina Tree, In Taveta it is referred to as Mukisha Tree,In Tharaka Language it is referred to as Muthigu Tree .In Dinka Language it is known as Rual ,In Hausa language it is referred to as Rahaina Tree
Of recent, it is sold in Uganda Markets, as medicine for lowering blood sugar levels and blood pressure, you cut into pieces, boil and take the water -Kity Anne
Kigelia Africana Tree Fruit
The most distinguishing characteristic of the sausage tree is its fruit. The fruit resembles elongated sausages, hence the name, and can measure up to 60 centimeters in length.
Image of sausage tree fruits
These fruits hang from long stalks, creating a unique visual appeal. When ripe, they turn brown and can contain seeds surrounded by a fibrous pulp. While the fruit is not edible in its raw state due to its unpleasant taste, it does have various uses after processing.
Kigelia Africana Tree Propagation
Image of Kigelia Africana Seeds and Pods by Stanley Didi
No pre -treatment of the seed needed though germination rate is okay.
Germination improves after the seed have been stored for 12 months.
Soaking the seed in hot or boiling water for one minute prior to sowing will enhance germination.
Seeds are placed in seedling trays filled with pure river sand; they are pressed into the sand until the tip is level with the sand, covered lightly with a thin layer of sand or pure compost and kept moist.
Seed usually germinates after 7 - 20 days.
They germinate better at temperatures of 23°c or higher.
Sometimes seeds are released when the fruit rots on the ground, and plants regenerate naturally.
Kigelia Africana Climatic Conditions
he Sausage Tree is found in areas where the mean annual rainfall ranges 900 - 2,000mm and Prefers a medium loam soil. The Sausage Tree also known as Muratina Tree grows best in a sunny position in a fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil
A relatively slow-growing tree; depending on the climate, it reaches good shade proportions in 4 - 5 years.
Image of Kigelia Africana seedling potted
TThe growth rate is at least 1 meter/year, but it is slower in colder areas. The Kigelia Africana Trees commence flowering when they are about 6 years old from seed. Plants can flower intermittently all year round. The flowers are unpleasantly scented.
Kigelia Africana Habitat and Distribution
The sausage tree is predominantly found in sub-Saharan Africa, thriving in a range of habitats from savannas to riverbanks. It prefers well-drained soils and is often associated with the moist environments near water sources. The tree can tolerate dry periods, making it resilient in varying climates.
One of the most notable benefits is its use in skincare. Extracts from the fruit are rich in flavonoids, sterols, and antioxidants, making them effective in treating skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, acne, and fungal infections. Kigelia africana is also valued for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce swelling and fight bacterial infections.
In cosmetic applications, it is used in creams and lotions for firming and tightening the skin, and is believed to improve skin elasticity and reduce signs of aging. The plant also has traditional uses in treating wounds, ulcers, and rheumatism. Some studies suggest it may have anticancer properties, particularly in inhibiting the growth of certain tumor cells. Additionally, its extracts are sometimes used to manage digestive disorders, malaria, and respiratory conditions.
While the fruit of the sausage tree is not typically consumed raw, it can be processed into various culinary forms. In some cultures, the fruit is fermented to create beverages or used in cooking to impart flavor to dishes.
The Sausage Tree Beverage Production
We have it in our shamba , I guess that's y dad haachi pombeanachuna anawacha inakauka anajitegenezea kaluvu -Emelky Mary
The fermentation of sausage tree fruit can lead to a local alcoholic beverage, enjoyed by some communities. This practice showcases the resourcefulness of local populations in utilizing available natural resources. The beverage, while not widely known outside its native regions, reflects a deeper cultural connection to the land and its offerings.
The fruit is a common additive to ferment in preparing local beer famously known as Karubu and muratina to increase the potency or to add to the flavour.
Sometimes the fruit is baked first and the fleshy part is added to the brew to increase strength, or sometimes it is the rind.
These additions have been postulated as leading to increased fermentation resulting in the formation of amyl-alcohol and explain the severe hang-over after inebriation.
The nectar from the flowers is used as a source of sugar.
Tell them we don't harvest sausage plant fruit we wait for it to fall. -Kamau
The Sausage Tree Flavoring and Culinary Applications
The Kigelia Africana seeds are roasted and used as a famine food.
In addition to beverages, processed sausage tree fruit can be used as a flavoring agent in certain traditional dishes. While it may not be mainstream, these culinary uses further demonstrate the versatility of the sausage tree beyond its ornamental and medicinal roles.
Kigelia Africana is good in treating sickle cell
Kigelia Africana Traditional Folklore
The old myth when we were young was not to point the hanging fruit with your hand or soon, your mama's nyonyos will take that shape....Oooh My Our Childhood -Wycliffe Otieno
In some cultures, the tree's fruit is used in traditional medicine. The pulp can be fermented to create a beverage, while the seeds and bark are utilized for various medicinal purposes. For instance, the bark is sometimes used to treat skin conditions, while the leaves can be employed in poultices.
The word karatina was derived from muratina tree,(sausage tree) that is used as an important ingredient in brewing of popular local alcohol however according to some sources it reveals that Karatina was a quarantine center due to the Spanish flu of 1920 more so for white settlers livestock
The tree's striking appearance makes it a popular choice for planting in public spaces, parks, and gardens. Its shade is valued, especially in arid regions, providing a cooling respite for both people and animals.
Traditions dictate that only the fruits that have fallen on the ground should be used.
Beautiful image of a Kigelia Africana
The sausage tree is often surrounded by folklore and symbolism. In some communities, it is regarded as a symbol of fertility and abundance. The fruit's unusual shape has given rise to various stories and myths, often linked to themes of creation and sustenance.
when we were growing as girls we could request it to give us breast , supposedly you've reached that age of having breasts , but you no signs of having them......we could sing ( yago miya thuno.... Yago miya thuno....) - Caroline
Kigelia Africana fruit has a natural yeast that ferments concoctions into a very portent wine.
Image of a Muratina drink By I love Kenya on Facebook
All you need to make Muratina beer or Karobo is to soak the míratina in sugarcane juice and it forms yeast then add raw honey and keep it for 4 to 6 days, you will enjoy a delicious beer -Kiguathi Mugaciku
Brewers who have learnt the art of making Muratina from years of watching elders by combine boiled, sun-drying the fruit with water and sugarcane juice (and sometimes honey), then allow the mixture to ferment over several days you can also use sugar if you don't have honey
Where To Buy Kigelia Africana Seedlings
Image of Kigelia Africana Seedlings by Joy Nzisa
The Average price of a Kigelia Africana Seedling ranges from 150Ksh to 500Ksh for instance a seedling vendor Naivasha Seedlings sells the Kigelia African at 350Ksh
Naivasha Seedlings | 0798370188 |
Joy Nzisa | 0711687744 |
Carnations Landscape | 0719829881 |
Kigelia Africana Medicinal Benefits
Image of a Sausage Tree by Esther mwathe retailing for 2000Ksh
However, the raw Kigelia Africana fruit is toxic and must be carefully processed before use to ensure safety and efficacy.
Kigelia africana, or the sausage tree, offers numerous medicinal benefits rooted in traditional African healing practices. Its fruit, bark, and leaves possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Traditionally, the plant is used to treat skin conditions such as eczema, acne, fungal infections, and wounds. Extracts from the fruit are also applied to promote skin firming and elasticity. Internally, Kigelia preparations have been used to manage ailments like malaria, dysentery, and respiratory infections. Some scientific studies suggest its potential in inhibiting cancer cell growth.
Sexually Transmitted Infections |
Erectile Dysfunction In Men |
Sickle Cell Disease |
Breast Cancer |
Blood Pressure |
Kigelia Africana bark is dried,crushed then powdered and used as a beverage especially to allergic people.
The diversity of complaints against which the plant is used includes digestive problems, fainting, anaemia, sickle-cell anaemia, epilepsy, respiratory ailments, hepatic and cardiac disorders, and nutritional illnesses such as kwashiorkor, rickets, wasting and weakness. Much modern research supports the traditional uses and the plant has become an ingredient of commercially produced applications for treating skin problems.
For those who love to drink tea but due to health reasons they are barred from the tea leaves this tree is the solution. It tastes like the normal tea leaves. You can make your own beverage by peeling off the stem. Remove the outer cells from the peels and cut into smaller pieces. Dry them and make a powder by pounding. Or alternatively use your own possible way to make a powder from the bark. The powder will be your tea.- Opiyo Jojo
Traditional usage (African herbalism): dressing for skin infections, rheumatism. Source of naphthoquinone molecule Lapachol.
The bark and leaves of the sausage tree are often used in poultices and ointments for treating skin ailments and wounds. Traditional healers may apply these preparations to cuts, rashes, and other dermatological issues. The antimicrobial properties attributed to the tree make it a valuable resource in folk medicine.
Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Properties of the Sausage Tree
Research has indicated that the extracts from the sausage tree possess antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that the tree's extracts can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi, which could lead to potential applications in modern medicine. While more research is needed to fully understand its capabilities, the initial findings suggest that the sausage tree could be a promising source of natural remedies.
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