Carob

What is Carob?

Carob is also known as St.John’s bread or Locust bean is originally from the Mediterranean region and the western part of Asia. Today it is grown mostly in Mediterranean countries. It grows in warm climates and may live to be 120 years old.

Carob contains carbohydrates, tannins, proteins, minerals and dietary fibres. It is included in dairy products, baked goods, snacks and cereal as dietary fibre.

Historically Carob has been eaten as food.  In fact the name St. John’s bread comes from the legend that John the Baptist may have eaten it. Powdered carob pods have been used to treat diarrhoea for centuries.

In the modern day, Carob has been used by people with the following conditions:

• Improves digestion.
• Lowers cholesterol level in the blood. Carob seeds don't have a cholesterol agent. 
• It acts as an antioxidant. 
• It can be used to treat diarrhoea in children and adults. 
• It contains an active substance that is effective against asthma. Carob is also used for asthma problems caused by allergies. 
• It is a good expectorant. Especially useful for smokers 
• It works nicely for patients that have high blood pressure. 
• It can help to prevent lung cancer, if used regularly. 
• It contains vitamins E and is used for the treatment of cough, flu, anaemia and osteoclasis. 
• Carob tannins have Gallic acid. Gallic acid is analgesic, anti allergic and antibacterial. 
• It is used for the treatment of polio in children, as the Gallic acid in carob tannins helps to prevent polio. 
• It is rich in phosphor and calcium making it useful in the fight against osteoporosis.
  

Side Effects and Warnings of Carob

Carob is generally safe. Only rarely have allergic reactions been reported.

You should however follow the instructions from your medical practitioner before using this or other supplements. When using it to suppress diarrhoea, you should be wary to avoid dehydration and also make sure you have taken electrolytes.

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