Articles
Cultural and nutritional benefits of Ximenia afra var. afra among the Bapedi and Vatsonga people in Mopani district, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Article number
1466_48
Pages
397 – 404
Language
English
Abstract
Ximenia afra var. afra popularly known as the magic wild plant, is an indigenous wild edible plant used by indigenous people for medicinal purposes and to meet nutritional needs, particularly in the form of beverage.
It is commonly referred to as the wild sour plum.
This study explored the beverage, nutritional, and medicinal significance of X. afra in the Mopani District, with a focus on its contribution to food security and health sustainability.
Ethnobotanical data were collected using qualitative research approach through semi-structured interviews, field walks and participatory observation involving 20 participants from Greater Tzaneen Municipality.
The data were analysed thematically, resulting in the identification of seven different types of beverages prepared from X. afra. Within indigenous communities in Mopani district, X. afra is locally referred to as Motshidi in Sepedi, and Motshiri in Xitsonga, where it plays a significant role in sustaining the livelihoods of indigenous communities.
Traditionally, the plum of the plant is consumed fresh when red in colour.
The plant can be processed into refreshing beverages valued for their unique sour taste and ability to quench thirst. Ximenia afra is particularly preferred in dry season when other wild fruits are scarce.
It contributes essential nutrients such as vitamin C, dietary fibre, and antioxidants.
Beyond household use, X. afra has potential for value addition through juice processing and traditional beverage production, offering opportunities for local enterprise development and poverty alleviation.
Given its benefits, X. afra can contribute to the 21st century global herbal beverage industry.
Safeguarding the associated indigenous knowledge for the future generation and value addition is essential to achieve the desired benefits.
It is commonly referred to as the wild sour plum.
This study explored the beverage, nutritional, and medicinal significance of X. afra in the Mopani District, with a focus on its contribution to food security and health sustainability.
Ethnobotanical data were collected using qualitative research approach through semi-structured interviews, field walks and participatory observation involving 20 participants from Greater Tzaneen Municipality.
The data were analysed thematically, resulting in the identification of seven different types of beverages prepared from X. afra. Within indigenous communities in Mopani district, X. afra is locally referred to as Motshidi in Sepedi, and Motshiri in Xitsonga, where it plays a significant role in sustaining the livelihoods of indigenous communities.
Traditionally, the plum of the plant is consumed fresh when red in colour.
The plant can be processed into refreshing beverages valued for their unique sour taste and ability to quench thirst. Ximenia afra is particularly preferred in dry season when other wild fruits are scarce.
It contributes essential nutrients such as vitamin C, dietary fibre, and antioxidants.
Beyond household use, X. afra has potential for value addition through juice processing and traditional beverage production, offering opportunities for local enterprise development and poverty alleviation.
Given its benefits, X. afra can contribute to the 21st century global herbal beverage industry.
Safeguarding the associated indigenous knowledge for the future generation and value addition is essential to achieve the desired benefits.
Publication
Authors
M. Maake, S.O. Amoo, M. Lekhooa, J.L. Mwinga, A.O. Aremu
Keywords
beverage crop, food security, indigenous fruit, indigenous knowledge, sour plum
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