ABSTRACT
This chapter provides information on uses, folk medicine, chemistry, germplasm, distribution, ecology, cultivation, harvesting, yields, energy, and biotic factors of Oyster nut. Oyster nut is cultivated for its edible seeds and oil yield. The seeds are the source of Castanha Oil, used in manufacture of soaps, cosmetics, salad dressings, paints, and candles. Medicinally, oyster nuts have laxative properties, and women in Usamabar eat the nut immediately after childbirth to cause early contraction of the pelvis, increase the flow of milk, and insure an early return of their strength so they can return to normal duties in a day or two. Native to East Tropical Africa, especially in Mauritius, Zanzibar, Tanzania, Pemba, and Mozambique. Cultivated throughout the area; especially in Kenya, Masai District, Ngong, and formerly in the Mascarene Islands. Cultivated throughout the area; especially in Kenya, Masai District, Ngong, and formerly in the Mascarene Islands.
