Spiny Sapsucker (Caesalpinia spinosa)

Other names: Tara

The spiny sapan, also known as Tara, is a tree that grows naturally in Peru, Ecuador and Colombia. The wood of this tree is heavy and hard and is popular for making furniture and wooden objects. But the Sapan tree is not only known for its wood - its fruits contain a very high proportion of tannins, which are valuable for a number of industrial applications.

The fruit of the Sapan tree is used to extract tannins, which are then used in a number of products. Tara tannins are often used in industry for leather production as they are able to form a strong and durable film on the surface of the material. In addition, the tannins from this tree are used in the food industry as a natural preservative as they can inhibit the growth of bacteria and mould. In the cosmetic industry, tannins are used to make creams and lotions as they have astringent properties and can help improve the condition of the skin. In the wine industry, they are used as a natural antioxidant to help stabilize wine and extend its shelf life. Thus, the spiny sapan, even with its exotic name Tara, hides countless uses for the precious tannins that make it one of the most valuable trees in the world.