Carob, native to the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, is a slow-growing ornamental tree that grows to about fifty feet in height. The tree is cultivated for its abundance of pods, which are rich in protein and sugar, and when ripe, these pods are used for many purposes, including making alcohol. Medicinally, Carob is especially effective in the treatment of diarrhea.
Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.
History and Uses:
Carob Bean is originally from the Mediterranean region and the western part of Asia, but today, it is grown mostly in Mediterranean countries. The gum from Carob seeds is called Locust Bean Gum, and the dried, powdered pods of this plant are used in herbal medicine. Many plants have a rich history of use throughout time, but few can out-boast Carob. It is said that the sweet, pulpy fruit pods of the tree were the "locusts" that St. John ate in the wilderness, and thus the name associated with it. In 1811, these pods were the principle food of the British Cavalry, and they have been much used for cattle fodder. At one time, the seeds were in high demand by chemists, as singers thought that they help clear the throat. Because Carob seeds are all the same size, they were once used by jewelers as the original carat weight in eastern Mediterranean countries; the word "carat" comes from the Arabic name of the seeds. The pods are rich in protein and sugar and have often been proclaimed "wholesome for man or beast." Medicinal uses have also been found for the pods, with laxative and demulcent qualities being associated with them. The main constituents of Carob Bean are carbohydrates and tannins. They may also bind to (and thereby inactivate) toxins and inhibit the growth of bacteria. The pulp of Carob is a valuable sweetener and popular chocolate substitute, and the seeds have even been roasted as a coffee substitute. The seeds and pods can be fermented and distilled, with a drink that retains the appealing flavor of the pods. The ground-up Carob seeds produce a protein-rich flour that contains no starch or sugar and is ideal for diabetics. A single mature tree can produce over four hundred pounds of pods and seeds annually. Carob is also used for the production of alcohol. The seeds, representing about ten percent of the whole pods, are processed for mannogalactan, and germ meal is also produced as a by-product. The seeds are extremely hard, and unless ground before feeding, they are not digestible. Additionally, the ground kernel endosperm of pods are sometimes made into a flour or used in making preserves, juices, liqueurs or even as an ingredient in cosmetics and a flavoring substance for cigarettes. Carob is an additive in breakfast foods, such as jams, marmalades and yogurt. Tannin-rich Carob has been used successfully in the treatment of acute-onset diarrhea.
Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) Capsules, one (1) to two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes. Do not exceed recommended dosage.
Contraindications:
Currently, there are no known warnings or contraindications with the use of Carob, but some people have reported
red eyes or thick discharge from the eyes, or sticky eyelids in the morning upon awakening.
Capsule Information:
Our Carob Bean supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs. |
