By Clarion Oyeronke
For most Nigerians, walnuts are a beloved seasonal snack often sold by roadside vendors in transparent nylon bags, their shells cracked open to reveal the soft, brain-like seed within. But while the local “awusa” or “asala” (as it’s fondly called in Yoruba) may seem like just another native nut, walnuts carry with them a long, rich history that spans continents, civilizations, and centuries.
The story of the walnut begins thousands of years ago. The most commonly known variety, the English walnut (Juglans regia), is believed to have originated in Persia (modern-day Iran). Historians trace its use back to around 7,000 B.C., where it was regarded as food fit for royalty. In fact, the Latin name Juglans regia translates to “Royal Acorn of Jupiter,” hinting at its esteemed status in Roman times.
Walnuts eventually made their way through trade routes into Greece, where they were called “karyon” (meaning “head” because of their shape). From there, they spread to the Roman Empire and later to other parts of Europe and Asia.
By the Middle Ages, walnut cultivation had become widespread across Europe, thanks to monasteries that planted them in cloisters and herbal gardens for medicinal and culinary purposes. The nuts reached the Americas in the 1700s, brought by English colonists—hence the popular name, “English walnut.”
The African and Nigerian Connection
While the English walnut is well-documented globally, Nigerians are more familiar with the African walnut—Tetracarpidium conophorum, also known as Plukenetia conophora. This variety, indigenous to West and Central Africa, is quite different in appearance and taste. It’s darker, tougher, and has a slightly bitter flavor when compared to its European cousin.
African walnuts have long been part of traditional diets in Nigeria, especially in the southern regions. In Yoruba communities, they are often cooked with a pinch of salt and served as snacks or side dishes. In Igbo land, they are known as Ukpa and are cherished for their nutritional value and use in soups and traditional medicine.
Unlike the English walnut, the African walnut is primarily cultivated in the wild or in home gardens, often climbing around cocoa trees or oil palms. While they haven’t enjoyed the same level of international acclaim, their health benefits—rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins—have sparked recent interest among nutritionists and natural health enthusiasts in Nigeria.
Beyond snacking, walnuts are part of Nigerian social experiences, shared during road trips, gifted to guests, or chewed during casual conversations. In many households, the walnut season is eagerly awaited, with its brief availability adding to its desirability.
Culturally, some local communities believe that walnuts have aphrodisiac properties, improve brain function, and help with fertility. While not all of these beliefs are scientifically proven, studies do affirm that walnuts support heart health, boost memory, and reduce inflammation.
In local herbal medicine, the leaves and bark of the walnut plant are used to treat a variety of ailments, from gastrointestinal issues to skin infections.
Economic and Nutritional Value:
Though largely overlooked in commercial agriculture, the African walnut holds potential for rural farmers, small-scale traders, and exporters. Its nutritional richness makes it a candidate for food innovation, especially in a time when Nigeria is re-examining local food sources for sustainable development.
From a nutritional standpoint, walnuts can serve as an alternative protein source and support food security. Their oil can be extracted for cooking, skincare, and even biofuel applications.
As Nigerians continue to embrace healthier food choices and rediscover indigenous crops, the walnut stands tall—rooted in tradition, rich in nutrients, and full of untapped economic promise. Whether you enjoy them for their taste, their nutritional punch, or the nostalgia they bring, walnuts are more than just a snack. They’re a piece of history – one that has traveled the world and found a home in Nigerian hearts.
Have you eaten African walnuts this year?
