What is Mesquite and why is it so good for you?
Prosopis juliflora, commonly known as mesquite, is a pervasive invasive plant species that thrive in arid regions across Asia, Africa, America, and Patagonia, encompassing a diverse range of 44 species (3). The plant exhibits distinctive pod formations that encase seeds, both of which possess significant nutritional value (1). Historically, mesquite has been employed in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments, including catarrh, colds, diarrhoea, dysentery, flu, hoarseness, inflammation, measles, sore throats, and eye problems (3). Additionally, mesquite tea has been traditionally utilized and reputed for its potential in ameliorating digestive disorders and promoting wound healing (3).
Pharmacologically, mesquite has been observed to exhibit noteworthy bioactivity, attributed to the presence of several constituents, such as alkaloids, tannins, phenols, steroids, terpenes, flavonoids, proteins, sugars, and fatty acids (3). Given its wide distribution and prevalence, extensive research efforts have been dedicated to exploring potential applications for this nutritionally abundant weed. Notably, mesquite boasts a high protein content, accounting for approximately 68%, and has been suggested as a supplementary dietary source in socioeconomically disadvantaged regions (2).
References
(1) De Lemos, A. B. S., Chaves, G., Ribeiro, P. P. C., & da Silva Chaves Damasceno, K. S. F. (2023). Prosopis juliflora: nutritional value, bioactive activity, and potential application in human nutrition. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 10.1002/jsfa.12620. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.12620
(2) Jaimes-Morales, J., Marrugo-Ligardo, Y. A., & Acevedo-Correa, D. (2022). Analysis of mesquite (Prosopis juliflora) protein concentrate for possible use as supplementary protein. International Journal of Food Science, 2022, 7621818. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/7621818
(3) Tajbakhsh, S., Barmak, A., Vakhshiteh, F., & Gharibi, M. (2015). Invitro antibacterial activity of the Prosopis Juliflora seed pods on some common pathogens. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research : JCDR, 9(8), DC13–DC15. https://doi.org/10.7860/JCDR/2015/13549.6370