NAMIB TSAMMA "Citrulus Ecirrhosus - 10 SEEDS

Citrullus ecirrhosus, commonly known as Namib tsamma, is a species of perennial desert vine in the gourd family, Cucurbitaceae, and a relative of the widely consumed watermelon. It can be found in both Namibia and South Africa, in particular the Namib Desert.

The San peoples, who traditionally forage for much of their food, rely on tsamma during hunting trips and throughout the dry season. It is said that a person can survive for six weeks on nothing but tsamma.

Whole tsamma melons store relatively well, and can be cut into pieces and dried to extend their shelf life even further. The dried flesh is cooked in stews and porridges. Tsamma seeds are dark brown and rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They can be dried or roasted and eaten whole or ground into flour, and they yield a rich oil that is used in cooking and for skin care.

The oil derived from raw or boiled Tsamma melon seeds was used for skin moisturization and protection against sunburn. Also, Bushmen chewed the seeds to create a cosmetic paste applied to the skin, imparting smoothness.