Acacia senegal (Acacia senegal)

Other names: caponica, acacia, caponica, senegal caponica, mimosa, khadira, khair, gummi arabicum, cutch tree

The Acacia senegalensis, also known as the true acacia, acacia, caponica, Senegalese caponica, mimosa, khadira, khair, gummi arabicum or cutch tree, is a tree that is native to the African continent but is now widespread in many warm regions of the world. It is a small, thorny tree or shrub that can reach a height of 5-7 metres. It has very durable and hard wood, which makes it used in many industries. Its leaves are small, green and grow on long branches, while its flowers are small and yellow with a strong scent.

The product most commonly obtained from Acacia senegal is the so-called gum arabic. This gum is extracted from the sap of the tree and is used in a number of industries, from food to cosmetics. In the food industry, it is used as a stabiliser and emulsifier, so it can be found, for example, in confectionery, cakes and drinks. In cosmetics, gum Arabic is a component of many skin and hair care products such as creams, shampoos and masks. Less well known is that Acacia senegal also has medicinal properties and is used in traditional medical practices. Industrial uses of gum arabic are found, for example, in the tourist industry for the production of belay and climbing ropes. Acacia wood is also used in products and is popular in the furniture and construction industries for its hardness and durability.