Fruit

Beninese Wild Shea Fruit

Provisional Moderate ScoreCompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 15, 2026Last updated March 15, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Beninese Wild Shea Fruit (Vitellaria paradoxa) contains high concentrations of phenolic compounds (734.643 mg/g in seeds) and flavonoids (183.517 mg/g in seeds) that provide antioxidant protection against cellular damage. The fruit's nutrient-dense pulp delivers 72.02% carbohydrates alongside essential fatty acids and vitamins A and E for sustained energy and immune support.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryFruit

GroupFruit

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keywordbeninese wild shea fruit benefits

Beninese Wild Shea Fruit — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Reduces oxidative stress and cellular damage through its rich profile of antioxidants.

Supports skin health by providing essential fatty acids and vitamins that nourish and protect.

Promotes immune function with its high content of vitamins A and E

Enhances sustained energy levels due to its nutrient-dense pulp

Aids in healthy digestion through its dietary fiber content

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Beninese Wild Shea Fruit (Vitellaria paradoxa) is native to West Africa, particularly Benin, thriving in arid and semi-arid climates with nutrient-poor soils. This nutrient-dense fruit is rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. It is highly valued for its contributions to skin health, immune function, and sustained energy.

“Beninese Wild Shea Fruit has been a staple in traditional diets and medicine in West Africa for centuries, cherished for its ability to nourish the body and promote vibrant health. It holds significant cultural importance, particularly for its use in traditional skincare and as a food source.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Scientific research on Vitellaria paradoxa focuses on the antioxidant properties of its fruit and the skin-nourishing benefits of its essential fatty acids and vitamins. Studies also explore its traditional uses in supporting immune function and providing energy.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Vitamin A - Vitamin E - Calcium - Potassium - Essential Fatty Acids - Bioactive compounds

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

The fruit's high phenolic compound content (734.643 mg/g in seeds) and flavonoids (183.517 mg/g in seeds) neutralize free radicals through electron donation, reducing oxidative stress and cellular damage. Cardiac glycosides (29.726% in seeds) may support cardiovascular function through sodium-potassium ATPase modulation. Essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins A and E enhance immune cell membrane integrity and support antioxidant enzyme systems.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Current research on Beninese Wild Shea Fruit is limited to compositional analysis and agricultural yield studies rather than controlled clinical trials. Compositional studies confirm high antioxidant compound concentrations and nutritional density, with agricultural research documenting fruit yields of 757-833 kg/ha in Benin's Leptosols over two-year periods. Traditional use studies support safety for consumption but lack quantified therapeutic outcomes. Clinical evidence remains insufficient to establish specific therapeutic dosages or mechanisms for health benefits.

Also Known As

Vitellaria paradoxaKaritéShea tree fruitWest African shea fruit

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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