Marula

Marula (Sclerocarya birrea) is a distinctive golden tropical fruit native to Southern and East Africa. Valued for centuries by African peoples, marula is celebrated for its distinctive sweet flavor, exceptional nutritional density, and traditional medicinal properties supporting comprehensive health and wellness.

Marula delivers exceptional vitamin C (36% DV per 100g) for immune support, essential fatty acids for skin and cognitive health, excellent fiber (11% DV) for digestive health, and notable mineral content including manganese (12% DV) and copper (11% DV). At only 63 calories per 100g with comprehensive antioxidant protection.

Yes, marula is exceptional for skin health with vitamin C (36% DV) for collagen synthesis, vitamin E (9% DV) for skin protection, essential fatty acids for elasticity, and copper (11% DV) for collagen formation. The comprehensive antioxidant and nutrient profile makes marula oil and fruit highly valued in skincare applications.

Marula has a distinctive sweet-tart flavor profile with creamy texture and complex fruity notes. The taste varies by variety: Southern African varieties are more balanced sweet-tart, East African varieties are sweeter with milder notes, and wild varieties have intensely complex, nuanced profiles.

Marula has a low glycemic index of 42 and glycemic load of just 6 per 100g serving. Combined with excellent fiber content, this makes marula ideal for blood sugar management, stable energy release, and sustained satiety, particularly beneficial for metabolic wellness.

Fresh marulas are available at African markets, specialty tropical fruit retailers, and international grocers (December-February peak season). Year-round options include marula oil, dried marula, marula supplements, and skincare products from African retailers, health food stores, and online specialty markets.

Marula is deeply embedded in African culinary traditions, folk medicine systems, and skincare practices. It's traditionally used in beverages, medicinal preparations, oil extraction, ceremonial applications, and wellness practices. Modern research increasingly validates traditional African uses in immune health, skin wellness, and comprehensive vitality.

Eat fresh marulas raw by cutting in half, removing the seed, and scooping flesh with a spoon. Extract marula oil for skincare and culinary use. Blend into smoothies, prepare traditional beverages, or use in cooked preparations. The distinctive flavor pairs beautifully with honey, warm spices, dark chocolate, and African ingredients.