There are about 1,200 different species of acacia flowering trees and shrubs all over the earth. Some parts of the tree are used specifically for their medicinal soothing properties. Leaves, flowers, pod seeds and the bark of the acacia tree have been used to stop bleeding, diarrhea and coughing; expel worms; heal ulcers and open wounds and soothe sore throats. Ancient Egyptians used acacia in paints and they used the wood to make wheels, dwellings and tools.
Acacia trees are found in the Nile basin. They are indigenous to Ethiopia, Egypt, Angola, Mozambique, Arabia, Afghanistan, Iran, South Africa and India. Australia and the Americas are home to different types of acacia as well. Certain species of the acacia can be spotted growing wild in the Sinai Desert and in the area of Jordan.
The tree can grow to be about 70 feet and the bark is hard and woody with a brownish rusty brown color. The acacia produces little flowers that are typically bright yellow or cream-colored but may be whitish in some species or even red or purple. A couple of varieties lack leaves.
A part of the tree's flower is used in soups, omelets, curries and stir-fries. In Mexico, the green pod of the acacia tree is known as guajes. Guaje seed color may vary from light green to a deep red color, but the taste varies little. It's the size of a small bean and is eaten raw with guacamole or made into a tasty sauce. Referred to as cacalus, dried guaje seeds are roasted, salted and eaten just like that.
Acacia wood is a valuable source of timber. According to the Book of Exodus in the Bible, it was used in the construction of the Ark of the Covenant.