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Geocarpa groundnut (Kerstingiella geocarpa) in Ghana

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Abstract

The geocarpa groundnut, Kerstingiella geocarpa Harms, is grown only in the northern and upper regions of Ghana. The seeds of this crop are produced in 1-or 2- or rarely 3-loculed pods which mature on or under the soil surface. The fresh mature or dry seeds are used for food, and they serve as a source of protein supplement in the local diet. The seeds are also said to have medicinal and emetic properties. Among the Sisalas in Ghana the boiled seeds are the only food served to surviving children during the final funeral rites of their mothers.

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Literature Cited

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This study was supported by a grant from the African-American Scholars Council.

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Amuti, K. Geocarpa groundnut (Kerstingiella geocarpa) in Ghana. Econ Bot 34, 358–361 (1980). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02858310

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02858310

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