African copaiba balsamtree
Daniellia oliveri
Synonyms: Paradaniellia oliveri
Western Herbalism Properties
Gallery
Botanical Description
Daniellia oliveri, known as the African copaiba balsam tree, is a medium to large deciduous tree in the Fabaceae family (subfamily Detarioideae), reaching 15 to 25 metres in height with a broad, spreading crown. The bark is greyish, smooth on younger trees and becoming scaly with age, and exudes a fragrant, sticky oleoresin when wounded. Leaves are alternate, paripinnate, 20 to 30 centimetres long, with 6 to 11 pairs of opposite, oblong-elliptic leaflets that are leathery, glabrous, and 5 to 12 centimetres long. Young foliage emerges pinkish-red, giving flushing crowns a striking appearance. Flowers are small, whitish, fragrant, and crowded in dense terminal or axillary panicles produced before or with the new leaves. Fruits are flat, oblong, woody pods 5 to 8 centimetres long, releasing a single seed. The species occurs in savanna woodland across tropical West and Central Africa.
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
Chemistry & External Identifiers
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.