Carob (Ceratonia siliqua)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Fabaceae
• Common Names: Carob, St. John’s Bread, Locust Bean
• Parts Used: Pods, seeds, leaves

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Description

Ceratonia siliqua is an evergreen tree native to the Mediterranean region, producing long, edible pods rich in natural sugars. Carob has been used for centuries as a nutritious food, a digestive aid, and a mild medicinal remedy. It is valued for its astringent, demulcent, and antioxidant properties, particularly for gut health and blood sugar balance.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in Ancient Egypt and Greece as a natural sweetener and digestive aid.
• Traditionally employed to soothe gastrointestinal issues, including diarrhea and acid reflux.
• Ground carob powder has been used as a caffeine-free alternative to cocoa.

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Constituents

• Polyphenols
• Tannins
• Dietary fiber
• Gallic acid
• Sugars and mucilage

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Actions

• Astringent
• Demulcent
• Antioxidant
• Prebiotic
• Hypoglycemic

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Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive Health:
Carob is widely used to soothe diarrhea, acid reflux, and irritable bowel conditions due to its high tannin and mucilage content.

2. Blood Sugar Regulation:
Carob’s natural sweetness and fiber content help slow glucose absorption, making it a beneficial alternative for diabetics.

3. Nutritional Support:
Rich in fiber, calcium, and antioxidants, carob is considered a nourishing superfood.

4. Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits:
Polyphenols in carob help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

5. Respiratory and Throat Soothing:
Carob syrup has been used traditionally to ease sore throats and coughs.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried carob powder or crushed pods per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to 2 times daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Powder (Culinary Use):

• Used as a cocoa substitute in baking, smoothies, or beverages.

Syrup:

• Prepared from carob pods to soothe coughs and support digestion.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Diabetes Management: Though carob has a lower glycemic impact than sugar, moderation is advised for individuals with diabetes.
• Allergic Reactions: Rare but possible in sensitive individuals.
• High-Fiber Content: Excessive consumption may cause bloating or digestive discomfort.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Mediterranean Medicine: Cooling and moistening; supports digestion and overall vitality.

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Combinations

• For Digestive Health: Combine with fennel and marshmallow root.
• For Blood Sugar Balance: Combine with cinnamon and fenugreek.
• For Cough and Throat Relief: Combine with licorice and honey.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Pods are collected in late summer or early autumn when fully mature.
• Drying: Air dry pods in a warm, shaded area before grinding or storing.
• Storage: Store dried pods or powder in an airtight container away from moisture and heat.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Ceratonia siliqua’s digestive-soothing, antioxidant, and prebiotic benefits, supporting its traditional uses.

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Carob remains a valuable medicinal and nutritional plant, particularly for digestive health, blood sugar regulation, and antioxidant support.