Nep nep, neb-neb in Wolof, is the dried pod of a Sahel acacia, Acacia nilotica. It is not a spice: it is boiled to prepare a decoction, following a traditional use widespread in Senegal. Whole pods, 100 g bag.
What is nep nep?
Acacia nilotica (its current botanical name is Vachellia nilotica) grows in the dry areas of Africa, from Senegal to East Africa. It is also called gonakié or red gum tree. Its grey-brown pods, pinched between each seed like a string of beads, contain a great deal of tannin: this is what gives the decoction its dark brown colour and its astringent, woody taste. Nep nep has nothing to do with néré, whose fermented seeds give soumbala.
How is it used?
Rinse 3 to 4 pods, boil them in 1 litre of water for 30 to 40 minutes, then strain: the liquid turns dark brown. In Senegal, this decoction is traditionally used for body care (washing, mouth rinses), and some families drink it as a herbal tea, often with honey. Outside the home, the same pods have long been used to tan leather and dye fabrics.
Precautions
We do not attribute any health property to this product. As a precaution, its use is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or for children. Tannins, in large quantities, may irritate the stomach: ask a healthcare professional for advice before drinking it.
In the same range
We also offer nep nep powder, the same pods already ground, as well as TANTIE kinkeliba and the other plants in the teas and infusions range.
Product information
- Brand: NUMBER ONE (Tai Yat Distribution)
- Contents: 100 g bag
- Ingredient: dried Acacia nilotica pods, no additives
- Allergens: none of the 14 regulated allergens by nature
- Origin: Ivory Coast, according to the label
- Storage: in a dry place, away from light, in a closed jar
