Acacia is a medicinal plant that may help support intestinal, oral, and liver health. It may also help relieve pain and fever and support blood sugar control.
These possible benefits are linked to bioactive compounds found in acacia, such as flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and soluble polysaccharides. These compounds may contribute to the plant’s antioxidant, prebiotic, and soothing effects.
Acacia is sold in health food stores and pharmacies as a dried plant or supplement, including acacia gum. It should ideally be used under the guidance of a doctor or healthcare professional who specializes in medicinal plants.
Main benefits
Acacia may be used to:
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Maintain intestinal health, as acacia gum is rich in soluble fiber that acts as a prebiotic and stimulates the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut
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Relieve pain and reduce fever, due to its analgesic and antipyretic action
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Help control blood sugar, as fiber can slow sugar absorption and reduce blood glucose spikes
- Help manage total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol
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Fight excess free radicals, helping protect cells and tissues from premature aging and degenerative diseases
In addition, acacia may also help with weight loss and support liver and oral health.
Acacia’s benefits are linked to its bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and soluble polysaccharides.
Ways to use acacia
The parts of acacia that can be used are the bark, leaves, and seeds.
1. Acacia gum
Acacia supplements are available as a powder known as acacia gum or gum arabic, which can be mixed with water, juice, milk, yogurt, or smoothies.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), acacia gum may be safely used in foods as a thickener, emulsifier, stabilizer, dietary fiber, formulation aid, and texturizer when used under prescribed conditions.
Some acacia supplements provide doses around 3.75 g to 4.2 g per day, but the appropriate amount can vary. The FDA states that dietary supplements are not approved for safety and effectiveness before marketing and advises talking to a healthcare professional before use.
2. Acacia tea
In traditional medicine, acacia bark and stems are usually boiled to prepare teas used to relieve coughs, colds, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
To make acacia tea, boil 1 cup of water with 1 teaspoon of acacia bark for 5 to 10 minutes. Let it steep for another 5 minutes, then strain before drinking.
There is no standardized recommended daily amount for acacia tea. For this reason, it should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional who specializes in medicinal plants.
3. Acacia poultice
A poultice made with crushed acacia root or bark can be applied to the skin or teeth to help treat ulcers, mouth sores, or toothache.
Possible side effects
When consumed in excess, acacia can cause side effects such as excess gas, bloating, stomach pain, and diarrhea.
In addition, consuming acacia gum without drinking enough water can also cause choking and constipation.
Contraindications for use
Acacia should not be used by people who are allergic to this plant or any related species.
This medicinal plant should also be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and should not be given to children.
In addition, people with health conditions or those who take medications or other supplements should always talk to a doctor before using acacia.