Azanza garckeana (Goron Tula) as an Edible Indigenous Fruit in North Eastern Part of Nigeria

Abstract

Azanza garckeana known as “Goron Tula” (Tula Kola nut) in Gombe State and Morojwa in Botswana is a valuable edible indigenous fruit widely distributed in Tula, Kaltungo Local Government Area of Gombe State and in Michika in Adamawa State. It is an indigenous fruit tree species that is semi-domesticated by the people of Tula. It is an important indigenous source of food in Tula, which is believed to increase the fertility of the people. Besides the fruit, the tree provides fodder for their animals, timber for firewood, shade; soil conservation and the bark and root are utilized for health purpose. The pulp and seed is an important source of phytochemical and mineral components such as ascorbic acid, Magnissium, Calcium, Sodium, Iron, Potassium, Phosphorus, crude fiber, Carotenoids, Tannins, Saponins, Alkoloids, Flavonoids, Phenols, C. glucosides and Xanthone. The potentials of Azanza garckeana cannot be over emphasized. It has a high socially and economic value in Northern part of Nigeria.

Keywords: Azanza garckeana, edible fruit tree, Phytochemical, North Eastern Nigeria