Ogbono (Irvingia gabonensis), also known by the names African mango, wild mango, bush mango or dika is a species of trees native to Africa, bearing edible fruits that resemble mangoes. This tree is also popular for the ogbono nuts that are extremely nutritious with high protein and fat content. The fruits are used to make jelly, jams, juice and wine. Sometimes the flesh of the fruit is used to obtain a black dye, which is used for coloring clothes. Ogbono is mostly valued for its nuts that can be eaten raw or roasted. Butter can be made by pounding these seeds. Seeds are pressed to make edible oil, which is used for cooking and also for manufacturing pharmaceuticals, soaps or cosmetics. The seeds contain mucilaginous polysaccharides, which acts as a thickening agent. Adding crushed seeds to soups and stews can thicken them as well as impart and good flavor.
