Goron Tula: The Uses, Health Benefits, And Side Effects.

Goron Tula (Hausa) is a “miracle fruit” that is occasionally referred to as African chewing gum, Thespesia, or Silky Kola. Goron Tula is also known as Tree hibiscus and Snot apple in English. There is no Yoruba name for it at the moment. The miracle fruit is growing in popularity day by day which is due to its massive health benefits identified by researchers and health practitioners.

Goron Tula boosts libido, improves fertility, aids digestion, regulates blood sugar, and supports respiratory health with its rich nutrients and antioxidants.

There were books and research on Goron Tula made by researchers but no one ever took them seriously, not until the fruit started to gain popularity in recent times.

Asides from the fruit, the tree provides:

• Forage for animals.
• Timber for firewood.
• Shade for relaxation.
• Soil conservation to prevent erosion.

Furthermore, the bark and roots are used for health purposes likewise The Goron Tula pulp and Goron Tula seed. What’s more?

What is Goron Tula made up of?

The identified components of this miracle fruit are: 

• Alkaloids
• Amino Acids 
• Ascorbic Acid 
• Carotenoids
• Tannins
• Cyanogenic Glycosides 
• Flavonoids

Where is Goron Tula found?

It is commonly found in Tula, a community in Kaltungo Local Government Area of Gombe State, and Michika, a community in Adamawa State. 

The two communities are in located northern Nigeria.

Health Benefits of Goron Tula:

• Goron Tula and fertility:

People living in the northern part of Nigeria consume this fruit a lot due to its fertile friendly nature. It was reported that one would hardly find a couple living in the community where this fruit is found without a child. 

The antibacterial, antifungal, antihyperglycemic, antimalarial, antioxidant, and iron absorption properties in the fruit have made it widely recommended for people who are waiting to conceive.

• Miracle fruit works for cough relief:

The antioxidants in it treat inflammation of the respiratory system. Chew some Goron Tula fruits regularly to be relieved from your cough.

• The Miracle Fruit tackles Liver problems:

The Carotenoids in Goron Tula helps in purifying the body system. This boosts the liver and helps it to clean your system and also improve your immunity.

• Goron Tula and Menstruation problems:

As stated earlier, Goron Tula contains Flavonoids which happens to be great for pain relief. For this purpose, people who have an ulcer and other pain. It would help address the inflammation that may be causing the pain.

•  Prevents Cancer:

This has been made possible also because of the antioxidants in the fruit. They assist the body to fight anti-bodies that may damage one's cells. 

• For Diabetes:

This fruit is great for lowering blood sugar levels. The Snot apple helps in addressing oxidation that may trigger chronic diseases. A person suffering from diabetes can take a few fruits in the morning to regulate the blood sugar level.

It helps eyesight:

This miracle fruit plays a role in helping your eyesight become better.

How to eat it

Goron Tula can be eaten in several simple ways:

1. Raw/Chewed: Wash the fruit thoroughly and chew the flesh directly. This is the most common method.
2. Soaked in Water: Soak dried Goron Tula in water overnight to soften it, then chew or drink the water.
3. Boiled: Boil the fruit to make a syrup or tea, which can be consumed for its health benefits.
4. Added to Smoothies or Meals: Blend with other fruits or foods for added nutrition.
5. Made into Powder: Dried and ground into powder, it can be added to drinks, yogurt, or meals.

Recipe

Here's a simple miracle fruit Smoothie recipe:

Goron Tula Energy Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 5 softened Goron Tula fruits (remove seeds)
• 1 banana
• 1 cup of milk (or plant-based milk)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger (for extra zing)
• Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Soak dried Goron Tula overnight or use fresh ones. Remove the seeds and scoop out the flesh.
2. Add all ingredients into a blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Serve chilled!

This smoothie is great for boosting energy, libido, and overall wellness.

1. Goron Tula Herbal Tea

Ingredients:

• 5 pieces of miracle fruit (soaked or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon cloves (optional for added flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 cups of water
• Honey or lemon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cut miracle fruit open and remove the seeds.
2. Boil the flesh with ginger and cloves in 2 cups of water for 10–15 minutes.
3. Strain into a cup, add honey or lemon if desired, and enjoy warm.

Great for respiratory health, menstrual ease, and general detox.

2. Goron Tula & Dates Libido Mix

Ingredients:

• 5 Goron Tula fruits (softened)
• 3–4 dates (pitted)
• 1 tablespoon tiger nut powder or coconut milk
• A pinch of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.
2. Chill and serve as a natural libido booster.

For Natural Candy Bites: Mash the fruit with honey and cinnamon, shape into small balls, and air-dry to create chewy snacks that are both tasty and energizing. Also, you can combines Goron Tula with other African superfoods like tiger nuts or baobab.

Side Effects Of Goron Tula:

Like various herbal plants, has many remedial uses and some after-effects. The miracle fruit side effects include:

• Cancer:

As much as it can prevent cancer, too much consumption of seed can also make one prone to cancer because it contains tannins. Tannic acid is a water-soluble polyphenol that is existent in many plant foods.

• Hostile Reactions:

Fruits that have lots of Polyphenols as part of a healthy diet are harmless for most people.

Nevertheless, people with medical conditions or particular food allergies may need to avoid certain polyphenol-rich foods.

How To Get it:

You can buy the African Silky Kola online or from local markets near you in Northern Nigeria. It is also in Ghana and the price is quite affordable.

Conclusion

Often called the "miracle fruit," offers numerous health benefits. It enhances fertility, alleviates menstrual discomfort, supports liver function, and aids in blood sugar regulation. Its antioxidant properties also help combat respiratory issues and may reduce cancer risk. Traditionally consumed by chewing the pulp or incorporating it into meals, Goron Tula is a natural remedy valued for its therapeutic properties.