Ngu, also known as oil palm ash, palm ash, or palm bunch ash (PBA), is a natural substance derived from the burnt remains of palm fruit stalks or other biomass waste of oil palm trees (Elaeis guineensis). It is used in some traditional and herbal medicine practices, particularly in parts of Africa and Asia.
Constituents
Ngu contains potassium carbonate, calcium oxide, magnesium, phosphates, sodium oxide, iron, silica, and zinc.
Preparations
Available in powder or liquid form (a filtrate of the powder), it is also used as a cooking ingredient—particularly for softening foods like breadfruit and beans.
Pharmacological actions and medicinal uses
Palm bunch ash is a good source of potassium and magnesium, both of which are vital for muscle and nerve function, and for maintaining proper blood pressure. Magnesium is also essential for blood sugar control.
As an alkalising agent due to its high potassium and calcium content, Ngu is used to neutralise acidity in the body or in herbal mixtures. It supports bone health, muscle function, and electrolyte balance, owing to its rich mineral content, including potassium carbonate, calcium, and magnesium.
In traditional medicine, Ngu is often used to relieve indigestion or reduce stomach acidity. A mixture of the ash and vinegar is sometimes rubbed on the body as a general remedy for swelling.
Due to its antiseptic and drying properties, some cultures apply it to the skin to treat wounds, rashes, or fungal infections. It is also an ingredient in natural soap-making, prized for its exfoliating properties. It helps with acne and evens out skin tone by gently removing dead skin cells, leading to smoother, more radiant skin. It may help reduce skin inflammation and redness, potentially soothing irritated or sensitive skin.
Additionally, it may help combat acne-causing bacteria and contribute to clearer skin. The potassium content supports skin hydration and elasticity, while also helping to cleanse pores and maintain a healthy skin pH balance.
Adverse effects
Excessive internal use of Ngu may lead to alkalosis (a condition in which the blood becomes too alkaline), with symptoms such as nausea, muscle twitching, confusion, tingling sensations, and hand tremors. Large doses may also cause gastrointestinal irritation, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, bloating, or stomach discomfort.
If not properly prepared, it may contain heavy metals like arsenic or harmful chemicals from the burnt waste materials.
On the skin, it may cause burning, redness, or peeling if not properly diluted or mixed with other substances.
Ngu should be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, individuals with kidney or heart conditions, and anyone taking diuretics, potassium-sparing drugs, or antacids.
Economic uses and potentials
Palm bunch ash (PBA), a biomass waste from the palm oil industry, is widely regarded as an alternative source of fertiliser, capable of improving soil health, plant growth, and yield. It is valued as a scouring agent in the production of African black soap. PBA has potential applications in the agricultural, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries—as an organic fertiliser, a formulation ingredient for medicines, and a natural cosmetic additive, respectively.
Market prices range from approximately $5.38 for 50g to $145–395 per tonne (1,000kg).
By Pharm. Ngozika Okoye MSc, MPH, FPCPharm
(Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency)
Email: ngozikaokoye@yahoo.com
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