Baobab is one of Africa’s most remarkable superfruits, harvested from the legendary “Tree of Life.” What makes baobab truly unique is the way it grows and matures: it’s the only fruit in the world that naturally dries while still hanging on the tree.
Over a period of around six months, the fruit ripens under the African sun. Its spiky green outer layer slowly hardens into a smooth, coconut-like shell. Inside this tough casing, the fruit pulp dehydrates naturally. Once harvested, the shell is cracked open and the dried pulp is simply milled and sieved ,no heat, no additives, no processing shortcuts. The result is a 100% natural, organic baobab powder that’s exceptionally rich in nutrients and packed with health benefits.
Baobab powder is particularly well known for its high vitamin C content, which contributes to:
- Normal energy release
- Healthy immune function
- Radiant, healthy-looking skin
It’s also almost 50% fibre, with a powerful combination of soluble and insoluble fibres that act as a natural prebiotic. On top of that, baobab contains more antioxidants than any other whole fruit.
Because baobab is a whole-food source of these nutrients, it’s highly bioavailable: meaning your body can absorb and use the nutrients more efficiently than it can from many synthetic supplements.
Another impressive feature of baobab is its naturally long shelf life. With a lifespan of up to three years, there’s no need for preservatives or additives. Just pure baobab fruit pulp powder with a deliciously tangy, citrusy flavour, often compared to a zingy sherbet.
Below, we explore ten of the most impressive health and beauty benefits of baobab..
1. Immune system support
Unlike many animals, humans can’t produce or store vitamin C, which means we need to get it regularly from our diet.
A single 10g serving (around 2–3 teaspoons) of baobab powder provides roughly 33% of your daily vitamin C needs. Vitamin C plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy immune system and supporting the body’s natural defences against infections and illness.
For an easy boost, try adding baobab powder to water, juice or smoothies when you’re on the go.
2. Slow, sustained energy
While fast energy spikes can lead to crashes, baobab supports a slower, steadier release of energy. Vitamin C contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and helps reduce tiredness and fatigue, supporting both everyday activity and exercise.
Sprinkling baobab over breakfast or blending it into a morning smoothie is a great alternative to relying on caffeine alone.
3. Blood sugar balance
Baobab powder is especially high in soluble fibre, which helps slow the absorption of sugars into the bloodstream. This can reduce energy spikes and support more stable blood glucose levels. Soluble fibre has also been linked to improved cholesterol levels and reduced visceral fat.
Research conducted by Oxford Brookes University found that consuming baobab alongside food significantly reduced blood glucose response compared to meals without baobab. Further studies showed that baobab slows the rate at which sugar is released during digestion, making it a good choice for those following a low-GI diet or managing blood sugar levels.
4. Improved iron absorption
Iron deficiency affects a large portion of the global population. While many people take iron supplements, vitamin C is essential for helping the body absorb iron effectively, especially non-heme iron from plant-based foods.
Baobab’s naturally high vitamin C content helps improve iron uptake, making it an ideal companion to iron-rich meals or supplements. Its citrusy flavour also works well sprinkled over food for a fresh, lemony lift.
5. Digestive health
Digestive issues are surprisingly common, yet many people still don’t consume enough fibre. Baobab powder is nearly 50% fibre and contains both types your body needs.
Soluble fibre dissolves in water and helps manage cholesterol levels, while insoluble fibre supports regular digestion by helping food move efficiently through the gut. Including baobab in daily meals is an easy way to support digestive comfort and long-term gut health.
6. Prebiotic and gut health support
While probiotics get most of the attention, prebiotics are just as important. Prebiotics are fibres that feed beneficial gut bacteria, helping them thrive.
The soluble fibres in baobab act as powerful prebiotics, supporting the growth and activity of healthy gut microflora. Interestingly, studies of the Hadza people of Tanzania – one of the world’s last remaining hunter-gatherer communities, show they have exceptionally diverse gut microbiomes. One of their dietary staples? Baobab fruit.
Research also suggests that prebiotics may help improve sleep quality following stress, offering another reason to support gut health through foods like baobab.
For best results, pair baobab with probiotic foods such as yoghurt or fermented drinks.
7. Radiant, youthful skin
Baobab stands out for its extraordinary antioxidant content, higher than that of blueberries, pomegranates or goji berries. These antioxidants help protect skin cells from oxidative stress and environmental damage.
Combined with its high vitamin C content, baobab supports collagen production, helping maintain firm, smooth and glowing skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
8. Pregnancy nutrition
Vitamin C plays a crucial role during pregnancy, supporting collagen production needed for a baby’s normal growth and development. A 10g serving of baobab provides a significant portion of the recommended daily vitamin C intake for expectant mothers.
Vitamin C also supports immune health and improves iron absorption, particularly important during pregnancy, when iron needs are higher. Combined with baobab’s fibre content, this can also help support digestion and energy levels for new and expectant mums.
9. Naturally alkaline
Baobab is one of the most alkaline whole foods available, with an exceptionally low PRAL (Potential Renal Acid Load) score. Including alkaline foods in your diet may help support balanced pH levels and overall wellbeing.
Some research suggests alkaline diets may also play a role in protecting against certain chronic health conditions such as hypertension, arthritis and deficiency in vitamin D, making baobab a great addition to green juices.
10. Pre and post-workout support
Exercise increases oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to muscle soreness and slower recovery. Vitamin C helps counteract this process.
Studies have shown that individuals who consumed vitamin C before and after exercise experienced less muscle soreness and faster recovery. Thanks to its high vitamin C and antioxidant content, baobab makes an excellent addition to pre or post-workout smoothies and protein shakes.