The Moringa Tree in Ancient Egypt

Document Type : Original Article

Author

A Lecturer in Egyptology, Faculty of Arts, Kafrelsheikh University (Egypt)

Abstract


Abstract
The Moringa tree has several names including ben oil tree, life tree, and left tree. The Moringa tree grows on arid and hot lands, and it is regarded as one of the most fast-growing trees as its height reaches up to 9-15 miter within three years' timing. The Moringa tree has such a high degree of nutrient value as its leaves contain anti-oxide bodies. As regards its seeds, they have 30-40% oil, which is known in Arabic as the ben oil; and it is characterized by its liquidity retention in low temperatures. The liquid is transparent and colorless, and it gets into the manufacturing of hair-caring products as well as the lubrication of machines .The tree has a present-day medical value as it helps in treating several diseases such as blood anemia and heart diseases, in addition to brain and nerve disorders.
The Moringa tree was known in ancient Egypt as "bAq " and its significance came to the fore through its connections to some of the gods like "Ptah " one of whose titles was Xry bAq.f. Further, the title was associated with a number of other gods, including Horus, Set and Thut; and the tree was mentioned in the Dead Book in Chapters 17, 125, and 149. Besides, the Moringa oil was used in funerals throughout the Pharaohs' history. Also, the Moringa oil was used in the manufacturing of scent as well as for medical purposes.
It use was mentioned as a prescription for improving skin texture and removing face wrinkles, headache, ear pains, tooth problems, stomach-ache, and curing wounds and eczema. Further, ancient Egyptians used the same oil in fending off insects and purifying the water. These aspects will be handled in the current study in detaiم

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References

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