Oysternut

Telfairia pedata

Physical Characteristics

Telfairia pedata is an evergreen Climber growing to 20 m (65ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Insects. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Tropical Africa - Tanzania, northern Mozambique.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Oil Seed Edible Uses: Oil Seed - raw or cooked[299 ]. A soft but firm texture with an excellent flavour[63 ]. The seed can be used to replace almonds or brazil nuts in confectionery and are also used in a variety of food dishes by local people[63 ]. The seed is usually roasted[300 ]. The seed contains about 30% protein[300 ] and has a high oil content[63 ]. It is irregularly circular in shape, about 4cm in diameter and 12mm thick[63 ]. It is easily extracted from its shell[63 ]. Seeds can be stored in their shells for several years in good condition[63 ]. To remove the bitter principle, whole seeds can be soaked for 8 hours in 3 changes of water. To remove the kernel from the shell, the fibrous husk is first partly cut away, then the shell is cracked and opened using a knife[299 ]. An oil extracted from the seed has a pleasant, slightly sweet flavour[63 ]. It makes a good cooking oil[298 ]. The seed contains up to 61% oil[303 ]. It is important to remove the husk of the seed before extracting the oil since it contains an intensely bitter substance that could contaminate the oil[63 , 299 ].

Medicinal Uses

Antirheumatic Galactogogue Stomachic The seeds are said to have valuable galactagogue properties and are in great demand amongst native mothers who consume them shortly after the birth of a child as a tonic in order to regain their strength and also to improve the flow of milk[63 , 299 ]. The oil obtained from the seed is used as medicine for stomach troubles and rheumatism[299 ].

Known Hazards

None known