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Shea butter is a natural vegetable oil that contains high content of monounsaturated fat, unsaturated fatty acid, and 40% less saturated fat than in most cooking oils. If unrefined shea butter is considered a healthy oil due to its monounsaturated fats, which may lower the risk of heart disease or may help reduce LDL cholesterol, not all types of shea butter can be used in cooking. Shea butter is a by-product of shea nuts. In some parts of Africa, and precisely, in the Northern parts of Ghana, shea butter is being used as a cooking oil since time immemorial. For the indigenous people of that region, the exotic taste of their meal will seem quite natural to them, while this may not be very palatable for those who are not accustomed to using shea butter as cooking oil. Unrefined Shea Butter - A Cocoa Butter Equivalent (CBE) In The Food Industry As the price of natural cocoa butter keeps increasing everywhere each year, the Food Industry has found an alternative way to deal with two problems it was faced with; using a healthier fat ingredient while remaining competitive in terms of prices. In recent times, the food industry has become more conscious of customers' health and therefore looked for alternative ingredients to substitute animal fats for shea butter. Unrefined shea butter is a widely used natural ingredient in chocolate making, ice-creams, and other confectionery products due to its fat composition, which is very similar to that of cocoa butter. In the food industry, the use of unrefined edible shea butter as a cocoa butter improver (CBI) or even as a cocoa butter equivalent (CBE) has proven to not only be cost-effective but healthier for the immune system. Unrefined Shea Butter - Which of The Grades Is Edible? There are 3 grades and different types of unrefined shea butter. At Organic Trade and Investments, we refer the grade A unrefined shea butter to shea butter that is edible, while grade B and C unrefined shea is recommended for cosmetic products. Hi OTI Team, I bought some of your unrefined shea butter. I wanted to ask if I could use it as a cooking oil as well? The composition of edible unrefined shea butter shall meet specific quality criteria. In fact, the fatty acid composition of unrefined shea butter will determine the edibility index of the butter. The higher the fatty acid composition of the unrefined shea butter the higher the risk of consuming it. In the table below, the grades (A+ and A-) of unrefined shea butter are healthy for direct human consumption or for the food industry (in this case, unrefined shea butter is used as a base for margarine, confectionery chocolate, or edible oil). While unrefined shea butter is edible, it is important to have a clear idea of the composition of the shea butter you are buying. Remember, not all types or grades of unrefined shea butter are edible. Source your unrefined shea butter from an expert.

The stories of many entrepreneurs usually begin with a sudden realization of a longstanding need they can meet or a talent they have. For Priscilla Brookman-Amissah Impraim, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ab Ovo Confectionery Limited, her passion for chocolate production was inspired by Valentine's Day. While at work in Germany one day, she “realized how much chocolate was being consumed and how much money was made during that period alone!" It made me think that Ghana has the best cocoa and yet none of the chocolate brands I was seeing on the shelves were from Ghana!” “That was when I decided to return to Ghana to try to make a difference,” she recounts. It is this ‘aha moment’ that drove Priscilla to register the company in November 2006 and eventually start full operations in January 2008. Ab Ovo Confectionery Limited has since cemented its name as one of the producers of top-quality chocolates in Ghana and West Africa. Using natural Ghana's premium quality cocoa beans and organically produced cocoa butter from Organic Trade and Investments (OTI), Priscilla ensures every single confectioned chocolate bar leaves a remarkable taste and exceptional impression with customers. One of Organic Trade and Investments' aim is to supply the health, cosmetic, and food companies with premium quality and unadulterated semi-finished natural ingredients to help these SMEs build sustainable businesses and trusted brands. Speaking on her company's partnership with OTI, Ab Ovo Confectionery's CEO noted that “we have been in business with OTI for about a year now and so far it has been good”. In 2011, the then Secretary of the United States, Her Excellency Hillary Clinton, and the US State Department invited Ms. Brookman-Amissah Impraim to visit the US for the African Women's Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP) Conference and International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP). Priscilla's sterling initiative and entrepreneurial achievements earned her interviews on the international television station, CNN, and the US Department of State TV channels. Her journey did not end there. Priscilla traveled to twenty-two states to visit a few more women's businesses to source motivation and valuable lessons for her business journey. As the CEO of a growing business, Priscilla takes pride in her company's achievements over the years. According to Priscilla, one of her major achievements so far has been the "ability to wean the company off Cocoa Processing Company (CPC)." She explains that when she first started Ab Ovo Confectionery Limited, her company relied on CPC for the manufacturing of their chocolate "because we did not have that machinery to produce on our own." After a few years and through hard work Priscilla was able to set up a world-class company to "produce and customize chocolates for over 100 bluechip companies in Ghana,” she stated. In the coming years, the company envisions growing to become the best chocolate manufacturing company in Ghana and West Africa. Despite the challenges that have come her way, Priscilla’s zeal remains unbending. “I have no regrets whatsoever in starting this business. The challenges are surmountable. Nonetheless, the journey has not been a breezy walk in the park. In her words, the journey has been fruitful, albeit tortuous! There are challenges in every job adventure and the commitment to stay on course is what will pay off in the end.” Ab Ovo Confectionery Limited Company is committed to the Sustainable Development Goals by giving back to the society that is making the company profitable. Ab Ovo's chocolate products are available for purchase in shopping centers across Ghana including Melcom and Palace Mall. Follow #AbOvoChocolate on social media: Ab Ovo Facebook Ab Ovo Instagram Ab Ovo YouTube

The scars left behind by healed wounds or physical trauma are usually unsightly and difficult to get rid of. People resort to using creams infused with skin bleaching chemicals to get this done, yet, these create more harm than good by destroying the skin. What if we told you you could get rid of scars and dark spots on your skin with a product that is made using only natural ingredients – CARROT OIL. This oil may not be the most popular solution, yet it indeed has a lot of benefits for the skin and hair. Carrots were previously regarded strictly as food till the Roman army doctor Dioscorides proved it as a medicinal plant through his scientific works and pharmacology. Dioscorides wrote about the properties of the essential carrot oil that has become popular today. Carrots contain beta-carotene and vitamin A and E that nourish the skin, making it smooth and bright. Adding these natural skin-enhancing nutrients to carrier oils makes the work even easier. Carrot oil is used in some body creams for skin lightening and limiting stretch marks but usually in small proportions and with dangerous chemicals. However, the use of pure carrot oil in its unadulterated form lightens dark spots and corrects hyperpigmentation of the skin. It does this without necessarily bleaching layers of the skin, unlike numerous ‘toning’ creams available in the markets. This is a saviour for light-skin people seeking to maintain an even skin tone. The use of carrot oil revives tired and pale skin, leaving it fresh and rested after its application. Carrot oil lightens the dark spots and helps to heal scars from injury or breakouts The best way to make carrot oil is the cold-pressed method that retains all the nutrients present in the carrot even though it takes longer. At, Organic Trade and Investments, our carrot oil is made from scratch by hardworking farmers using fresh organic carrots and pure organic carrier oils. This rich oil can be used on your skin and face without damaging them. Adding the oil to your body cream can have the same effect Adding 3-5 drops of carrot oils to the basis of 10grams oil or cream is recommended to achieve a fine mixture The best time to use carrot oil is right after a bath or washing the affected area. Consistently using this over time brings the results you need

Tiger nuts, chufa, earth almond and yellow nutsedge are but a few of the numerous names for this rich nut that was originally cultivated in Egypt as far back as 4000bc. Scientifically known as Cyperus esculentus, tiger nuts come in two colours, black and brown. At Organic Trade and Investments, our tiger nuts are significantly organic and additive-free. It fits right in many diet choices; paleo, gluten-free, vegan, low FODMAP, grain-free, whole food, etc… It can be eaten raw and does not necessarily require cooking. People consume tiger nuts for various reasons – medicine, aphrodisiac and food. Although the taste is hard to describe, some people say it is similar to nutty flavoured almonds except tiger nuts are also naturally sweeter. Eating the nuts either in their whole form or making other meals from them is beneficial since they are packed with nutrients. Tiger nuts are a rich source of roughages that also aids digestion and bowel movement. The benefits of tiger nuts are numerous benefits including controlling blood sugar, improving heart health and boosting the immune system. If you intend to consume this milky nut but are seeking an easier way, this article is for you. We will be sharing how you can drain the nutritious milk from the nuts for use in your day-to-day diet. This recipe is absolutely simple and can be done without any complication because you need just two ingredients; OTI Natural Raw Tiger Nuts and filtered water. Process Measure the number of nuts that best suit your preference and wash them. Soak the tiger nuts for six hours or more (preferably overnight). This will allow the nuts to soften as they will swell in size to make them easier to blend into creamy, smooth milk. Put your tiger nuts in a high-speed processor or blender and blend them into rough chunks. Now, add some cups in proportion to the tiger nuts you have and continue blending for 3 – 4 minutes till you get it creamy and smooth. Using a strainer, carefully separate the milk from the chaff. You can also do this with clean linen, mesh or napkin for a finer strain – squeeze it till you get all the milk out. Pour your fresh milk into a glass jar or bottle to preserve it in your fridge. You can use this milk in your breakfast cereals, teas, smoothies, pancakes, fruit salads or even as a refreshing drink. NB: Try to use the milk within three days as it might begin to smell slightly sour as it spoils. Remember to give the glass of milk a good shake before each use to mix up any tiny sediments. Meanwhile, the leftover tiger nut pulp does not go to waste; it can easily be made into flour by leaving it to dry by air or in the oven at a very low temperature. Since it is sweeter than regular flor, it can be used for a variety of snacks like crackers, no-bake bars, pancakes cookies, etc... The wet pulp can also be kept refrigerated and added to smoothies. Try this recipe out and give us your feedback, we’d love to know how you find it.

Sustainability has become an increasingly relevant topic in recent months and years, but many people think sustainability only refers to the environment. However, it is much more than that. Sustainability includes aspects of social and governance and speaks to the longevity of businesses going into the future. The idea of combining profit and purpose to create and drive more prosperous societies, especially within Africa, is more crucial than ever. Organic Trade and Investments' CEO, Esther Ama Asante (Esthy), during the MEST Sustainability Webinar in partnership with AR Initiative, shared her perspective on sustainability as a startup that is focused on the transformation of the agribusiness sector through innovative technologies and how OTI is fostering policies and standard operating procedures that will ameliorate the working conditions and livelihood of the many farmers and manufacturers Organic Trade and Investments (OTI) is currently in collaboration with. Questions were thrown to the panelists on the specific topic, and this is what our CEO had to say: Do you have a sustainability strategy for your business? OTI adheres to 6 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are driving us to transform our world and the communities we operate in. These SDGs are: i. SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-Being ii. SDG 5 - Gender Equality iii. SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth iv. SDG 10 - Reduced Inequalities v. SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production; and vi. SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals It would be difficult to run a business such as OTI without having any properly documented sustainability strategy in place. We deal with thousands of small-scale growers and artisanal manufacturers. It’s one of the strategies we put in place in the internal control system. It’s mandatory for the suppliers and farmers we work with to take note and abide by the Code of Conduct, which outlines their basic responsibilities towards the protection of our biodiversity, and ensuring business continuity, human rights, fair trade practices, good industrial hygiene practices, quality management procedures, etc… so yes, we do have a sustainability strategy plan in place. How do you measure impact in your business? First and foremost, we have to set those Sustainability KPIs. On a constant basis, these KPIs are measured for specific metrics including; product recycling waste, waste recycling rate, water footprint, energy consumption, carbon footprint, supplier environmental sustainability index, etc. Measuring, for example, energy consumption, provides a powerful indicator of the amount of energy being consumed by the supplier, or by measuring supply chain miles, provides an insight into how far our product is traveling before reaching its final destination. It isn’t always achievable, as we depend on other stakeholders/service providers (shipping lines, etc.) to fulfill orders. Whenever we can and as much as possible we try to consolidate shipments to minimize the negative impacts on people’s health, and the environment. To contribute to reducing the carbon footprint, for example, all our support team work from home. We are very strict on the working hours of our employees and beneficiaries. Employers have the moral right and obligation to create a conducive workplace and environment for their workers. We stimulate competitors to partner with us just so we meet the expectation of customers. And it’s important for us to align our goals with the exigencies of the SDGs that are driving the business. We make sure that the products we sell have an inherent positive benefit to the customers but also to the environment. What has been a challenge for you in integrating sustainability in your organization? Holistic thinking, governmental, and societal approach towards sustainability. Integrating sustainability in business comes at a cost. We constantly have to educate customers on the importance of practicing fair trade, for example. Though progress has been made toward the SDGs, national governments have not created enough framework that demands action from businesses operating in Ghana to implement good practices of sector collaboration and private partnership around sustainability. Have you noticed any impact of your business activities on the SDGs? Certainly. When we first started OTI in 2015, we barely had 20 farmers. Today, after putting in place the right standard operating procedures, we are now nearing 150,000 farmers and 300 manufacturers. 2/3 of the farmers we were working with had to rely on middlemen or women for a market, more than 50% of their crops would go wasted because they did not know what to grow, not having any understanding or accurate data of market's expectations. We created a dedicated research and development department whose duty is to focus on market research, data collection, and reporting to help the company make an informed decision on what to produce. This approach has helped us avoid post-harvest waste by 100% among our growers and production waste by 90% for our manufacturers. Additionally, we’ve improved the way of processing the quality of raw materials to comply with the international quality standard, supported them financially, provided capacity building to optimize their SoPs but also be export-ready, and we’ve encouraged them to mechanize and digitalize their operations to boost sales. At OTI we are here to advocate for SDGs policies from policy-makers and public-private organizations. We hope to build a social movement with customers, beneficiaries, and employees and that by so doing it will pave the way for other companies and authorities to implement change at scale. How has your approach to sustainability been received by customers, investors, and the ecosystem? Over the years, we’ve seen a change of behavior from some customers who require that the products they are sourcing from us be certified organic. This wasn’t the case a few years ago, prior to COVID. 60% of customers are willing to pay more for ethical and environmental-friendly products. However, there are still customers who still wouldn’t care to pay far less than the minimum price. Though they still request that we issue the organic certificate. Often, these customers are practicing green-washing. While farmers and manufacturers are grateful and thankful for a company like OTI that is keen to protect their interests, assist them to make the most out of whatever they grow or produce, help them promote their articles, and connect them to a reliable international/local market, give them the financial support needed to grow their businesses and create generational wealth and stability for their family is all that is encouraging OTI to do more and remain efficient in business.

If you’re like me and you like to formulate your own products and try out DIY tips, today’s article is for you. We’re going to learn how to craft your signature homemade body cream using OTI Cocoa Butter, OTI Cold-Pressed Virgin Coconut Oil and other ingredients that can be easily sourced from our e-store or your local market. The ingredients in this recipe are known for their moisturizing and skin repairing properties so they will make your skin supple, smooth and fresh. This recipe is made up of coconut oil with cocoa butter, olive oil, and essential oils that you prefer. Cocoa Butter is a natural fat extracted from cocoa beans. Also known as the ‘obroma oil’, cocoa butter’s beauty and health benefits date back to over 3,000 years. Natural cocoa butter is enriched with several nutritive elements, antioxidants, and hydrating benefits making it ideal for numerous purposes. In addition to this, it is popular for clearing scars off the skin. It treats conditions like stretch marks, eczema, acne, psoriasis, and dark spots and is ideal for soothing sensitive skin. Coconut oil, on the other hand, is an emollient that softens and hydrates dry skin while increasing essential oil distribution. It reduces the symptoms of skin conditions such as eczema and other skin irritations. OTI Cold-Pressed Virgin Coconut Oil is handmade with the traditional production methods of our ancestors thus retaining all of its richness and authenticity. Note that if your skin is acne-prone, you may want to refrain from using this excessively on your face or areas that are susceptible to breakouts. For additional self-care benefits, add a few drops of essential oils including; lavender, tea tree, rosemary, or which other essential oil of your choice. Now let’s get to the recipe, shall we? Ingredients 1/4 OTI cold-pressed virgin coconut oil 3/4 OTI Cocoa Butter 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Essential oil of your choice Preparation Process Place all the ingredients in a small pan and heat over medium heat until the butter and oils are fully melted. Pour the mixture into a sizeable container with a tight lid. Shake vigorously from time to time as it cools down. When the mixture reaches room temperature, you can now apply it to your skin. Alternatively, if you prefer a whipped body cream, set the cooled mixture in the freezer for 20 minutes to become a bit firm not solid. Using a hand mixer set to medium -high, whisk the body butter for 5-10 minutes till it becomes fluffy. There! Homemade natural cocoa butter cream for you and your family. Apply this twice daily (in the morning and before bed) to achieve maximum results. Visit our e-store to start shopping for our 100% organic ingredients now!

If there is any distinct feature of aloe vera, it is how succulent and green it looks – It is not for nothing though. Famous for its use in cosmetics, the fleshy plant has also come a long way in Ayurvedic treatments and healthy diets. Aloe Vera juice is made by squashing and grating the whole Aloe Vera plant leaf. Then it is further processed and purified to make it safe for use Deciding to consume pure aloe vera drink on a very regular basis is one of the most profitable choices you could ever make for yourself and every member of your family. In fact, scientists who have studied aloe vera name 15 family groups that are found in it; Vitamins, Minerals, Enzymes, Amino Acids, Fatty Acids & Uric Acids, Polysaccharides, Anthraquinones (Aloin), Steroids & Sterols, Lectin Substances, Gibberellins, Saponins and Salicylic Acid. With these listed, the benefits are definitely numerous - Below are some. Deals with digestive disorders Fluid is generally known to aid digestion. However, aloe vera juice is potent and proven to fight and cure a range of disorders and digestive issues like constipation, acidity and gas. It can also help restore lost appetite and help check weight gain thanks to its rich vitamin C content. Aloe Vera juice is best taken before your meal to encourage the flow of digestive juices, especially hydrochloric acid HCL in the stomach which helps in the breakdown of food. Some studies show that it can relieve the patient from the pain and discomfort caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Flushes out toxins from the body Over time, the human body accumulates toxins from food and lifestyle activities that when not disposed of, can be harmful. Aloe vera juice flushes these toxins from the body and replaces them with its nourishing vitamins and minerals for a healthy system. "The only thing that doesn't find presence in aloe vera is Vitamin D," shares Dr. Gautam. Aloe vera keeps your liver healthy thanks to its rich water content and the presence of phytonutrients. Remember, a healthy liver keeps your body away from toxins. Drinking normal temperature aloe vera drink on an empty stomach in the morning allows for it to work thoroughly as a detox. Giving this to your children helps to keep them healthy and boost their immune system to enable them to grow. Clears your skin Are your adolescent kids struggling with acne or pimples? If yes, Aloe Vera juice is just the thing you need to stock up on immediately. “Why?” you ask? Not only does aloe vera reduce the frequency of breakout but it also treats conditions like psoriasis and dermatitis. A study found that consuming aloe vera improved collagen production and reduced the appearance of wrinkles in a group of women over age 40. Studies have found that Aloe Vera can even minimize the effect of ultraviolet rays and delay fine lines and wrinkles. Aloe vera juice's benefits for skin doesn’t end here, being a good source of antioxidants and vitamins, it protects your skin in all ways. Boosts Immunity Keeping the immune system free from attack from illness is a priority. Thus, cultivating a habit of drinking aloe vera juice daily will only have a positive effect on your system. This will keep illnesses at bay since it contains a plethora of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that, when teamed with other healthy foods and habits, aloe vera can boost you and your children’s body's immunity. Give your family a cup of aloe vera drink each morning and evening to shield them from common colds and fevers that are quite common colds that plague children. Scientists say children’s growth is not fully developed at birth and requires quality nutrient dense foods until 21 years of age. Works as a Laxative Organic aloe vera products contain actives from the called phytonutrients. These natural compounds soothe occasional stomach upset and may work as a laxative. Drinking it on an empty stomach causes it to cleanse the intestines and flush the toxin out of the body. It also works as a detox drink that may help in weight management. By now, you are convinced about why you should start drinking aloe vera juice but how do you conssume it? You can add either drink it as it is or add it to a variety of drinks such as cocktails, smoothies, lemonade or gelatin NB: Although there are numerous benefits of using aloe vera in various forms, it’s a good idea to talk with a healthcare professional before trying anything new when it comes to your diet and health. Especially, if you are pregnant.

This is the success story of two women-owned and women-led businesses; Contes de Flore and Organic Trade and Investments (OTI). All it took was an interaction during a business event outside their respective countries for the two companies to realise the potential of their individual strengths. They would later come to know that they could achieve even more if they joined forces. It was in 2017, around the time Organic Trade & Investments was officially launched, when Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Esther Ama Asante, upon receiving an invitation to the SheTrades event held by the International Trade Centre (ITC). Subsequently in 2018, Esthy joined a Business-to-Business (B2B) session in Liverpool. A forward thinking Esthy who had sent some samples of OTI’s authentic cocoa and shea butters impressed the people she interacted with. One of them was Preeti Bedi, founder of Contes de Flore, an Indian cosmetics company. Esthy recounts how Preeti was “much impressed with what we had”. They decided to stay in touch when they returned to their respective countries to follow up on their conversation. “Preeti and I had a B2B session, which was just about 15 to 20 minutes of talk, but then from there, we said since we connected so well, we would keep chatting after the session. And so we exchanged business cards,” she narrated. That was exactly what happened. Esthy and Preeti kept exchanging emails every other month. Since they were both eager to learn more about how to work with each other, the relationship was natural. Although Preeti was enthusiastic about purchasing some products from her new client (OTI), she was unsure about how to transport goods all the way from Ghana. This brought up the issue of accessibility. Esthy proposed to Preeti to take up the role of a partner in her country to ease the accessibility of goods to clients in her region, an offer that was easily accepted. This was welcomed news as Esthy was already looking to export some products from India. That was the start of a blossoming business relationship between these two women across different continents whose businesses share common values. Organic Trade & Investments went on to sign a Bilateral Trade Agreement with Contes de Flore. The tenets of this contract allows both companies to represent, negotiate, and transact business on behalf of each other in their countries. This agreement is subject to renewal bi-annually. According to Esthy, this is a mutually beneficial agreement because “both companies can go about their businesses independently of the other, while they are still partners.” “It is all about opening up to each other’s market and facilitating the accessibility and movement of products in each other’s market,” she explained. Essentially, Preeti is a point of contact between OTI and clients in India and its neighboring countries, making her eligible for a Commercial Officer in India. In addition, Contes de Flore can repackage and resell OTI’s natural ingredients including its organic unrefined shea butter. Already, they have achieved some feats with this partnership by getting some new clients for their respective businesses, something they hope to keep doing for a very long time. The Bilateral Trade Agreement between these two companies reflects the long history between India and Ghana. This is evident in the big Indian community present in Ghana. Under this trade Agreement, OTI’s Ghanaian authentic organic shea butter and cocoa butter are being sold on Amazon India under the brand name Bonsoul. To purchase OTI natural shea butter in Southern Asia and its surrounding areas, contact the official pages of Contes de Flore on their website or via social media. ABOUT CONTES DE FLORE Founded by Ms Preeti Bedi, who is also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Contes De Flore is based in Bangalore, India. She has a corporate career of more than a decade in renowned Indian companies and has worked in various positions across different industry verticals. In her words, the company was set to propagate “the need to create an environment where sustainable products are developed and marketed as per customer requirements”. “The aim is to work across different continents where we can deliver quality products and can make a difference to the people through meaningful partnerships and alliances.” Being an environmentally conscious company, the business strives to have a sustainable value chain across the globe for all stakeholders and provide products that enhance the wellbeing of people and the planet. Its range of products like Natural Soaps, Lotions, Body Butter, Balms, Scrubs, Salts and Oil blends are sulphate and paraben-free and comprise the best ingredients nature has to offer. All the products on sale are customised based on demographics and lifestyle as per the climatic conditions of the various geographies globally.

If there is anything we excel at, it is bringing you all the relevant nutritional information and recipes for all the high-quality natural products available at Organic Trade & Investments. In this post, we will be exploring some tantalizing healthy meals you can make with our 100% Natural Baobab Powder for yourself or the family. They even pass as tasty refreshments at events. If you don’t know the numerous health benefits of this rich powder, read our previous blog post on the subject. Being an excellent natural source of vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus and potassium, it is critical for immune health, skin health, bone health, mood balance, and recovery from exercise. In fact, research by Oxford Brookes University found that polyphenol-rich baobab fruit extract, baked in bread, reduced starch digestion and glycemic response in humans. You may be wondering how baobab powder tastes – we can promise you’d absolutely love its taste and smell. Baobab powder has a tangy, tropical flavour that blends well with the taste of most fruits. This makes it a perfect ingredient for smoothies. With this being said, you can trust you’ll love the flavour which will make it easier for you to enjoy these baobab powder recipes while getting all its natural nutrients. Baobab Smoothie This is a very simple recipe. Regardless of which fruit smoothie you are making, remember it blends beautifully with most fruits. Add a teaspoon or more based on the quantity or your preference to spice up your regular healthy smoothies. Baobab Tea For ages, teas have been a great source of medicine and refreshment. To make baobab tea, mix 2-3 teaspoons of baobab powder and 8 oz of hot water. Add OTI Raw Wild Honey if desired. (PS: It has a mild lemonade flavour.) Baobab Flavoured Yoghurt Sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons of this highly nutritious powder over your choice of fresh yoghurt with top it up with some cut fruit. This gives you a wholesome combination of the prebiotics in baobab powder that of yoghurt. Baobab Pancakes & Waffles Using your original recipes for waffles and pancakes, you just need to add 2-3 tablespoons to make them richer in fibre, taste and nutrition. Baobab Sauces Make your sauces richer by adding baobab powder as a thickening agent. It will fit right in your BBQ sauce, sweet and sour sauce, curries, plum sauce and more. We hope you enjoy these recipes specially put together for you. If you don't have your stock of baobab powder, place an order on our e-store.

Ghana is one of the countries in West Africa that grows and harvests Fonio. Unlike other countries in the region, Ghana grows the 'white' Fonio, only. The texture and appearance is similar to garri, couscous or quinoa. But unlike quinoa, Fonio contains more amino acids, which is good for pregnant women. Naturally 100% gluten-free, Fonio is full of Vitamin B and rich in calcium, magnesium, and zinc. It helps strengthen hair and nails, and build strong bones and teeth, and controls diabetes. Gradually –and finally – the world is getting to know about and appreciate Fonio, once again. Known as the ‘Grain of Life’ or the ‘Hungry Rice,’ Fonio is the smallest and one of the oldest grown and harvested grains throughout West Africa. The grain, which used to be part of the diet of West Africans in the 1970’s became very unpopular –for whichever reason –in the mid 1990’s. Fonio is among the 25 forgotten crops, which is now being rediscovered for its many health benefits. Health Benefits of Precooked Fonio Grain Naturally 100% gluten-free, Fonio is full of Vitamin B and rich in calcium, magnesium, and zinc. It helps strengthen hair and nails, and build strong bones and teeth, and controls diabetes. It also provides energy, detoxes the liver, and prevents anemia. Containing a significant amount of fiber, the ‘Grain of Life’ reduces constipation and bloat. Fonio improves heart health, as it is a low homocysteine food. Ghana is one of the countries in West Africa that grows and harvests Fonio. Unlike other countries in the region, Ghana grows the ‘white’ Fonio, only. The texture and appearance is similar to garri, couscous or quinoa. But unlike quinoa, Fonio contains more amino acids, which is good for pregnant women. How to Prepare Fonio Fonio is very easy to prepare. The Fonio grain can be prepared as a breakfast cereal (porridge) or as a principal meal (rice or couscous) – it is usually accompanied with vegetable stews or spicy sauce. Fonio can also be used in salads or eaten as a side dish. The Fonio grain is milled into flour, which is often mixed with wheat flour for baking. It is also proven that the indigenous people of the Northern part of Ghana have always used Fonio grain to brew beer. Get a Pack of Precooked White Fonio on OTI You can buy your 1kg pack of precooked Fonio or Fonio flour online. #OTIPrecookedFonio #PrecookedFonio #WhiteFonioGhana #FonioGhana

Each day, we discover that nature’s gifts to us keep giving back in numerous ways. Given the way some products are advertised, it is possible to think you need some sort of special prowess or chemicals to make them by yourself. This is why many people would rather stick to buying them at exorbitant prices from multi-million dollar beauty companies. In this blog, you'll learn how to make your own lipstick (Yep! Unbelievable right?) using some of our best-selling organic products here at Organic Trade and Investments; coconut oil, beeswax and shea butter. As fans of sustainability and promotors of the use of organic products, we have brought you knowledge on how you can make an essential beauty product without chemicals and synthetic ingredients that are harmful to you or the environment. We can bet you that this easy DIY recipe can match the bold pigments of today’s hi-tech formulations that are on sale and arguably dangerous to your health. The process is not complicated at all. In fact, it is a simple process of mixing these rich organic ingredients. Notably, all the base ingredients for this product are good for the skin and help to nourish it with all the vitamins therein. The best part is that this is a non-toxic lipstick so there is no fear should you mistakenly ingest it. Shea butter is a moisturizer with healing nutrients that works on dry skin, chapped lips caused by dryness and even heals cracked heels. OTI Organic Ivory Unrefined Shea Butter contains vitamins A, E, F and fatty acids that make it a good addition to a lip product for added nutrients. When used on the skin, beeswax hydrates and creates a long-lasting barrier to the skin against environmental elements and conditions while calming all irritation. Coconut Oil, on the other hand, is composed of saturated fatty acids and loaded with vitamin E which is very good for skin tissue repair. Coconut oil is known to soften the skin and protect it from bacteria that may cause infections. A fine combination of these skin-enhancing products will create the dream product of any skincare enthusiast. What You Need: OTI Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Coconut Oil OTI Organic Ivory Unrefined Shea Butter Food colouring/Berries/Beetroot Unrefined Natural Beeswax Essential Oils. Instructions: 1. Gently heat a teaspoon of coconut oil, a sizeable chunk of beeswax and shea butter until they have totally melted. It is advisable to use a metal melting pot to easily transfer the mixture. 2. Add a few drops of essential oil of your choice (preferably rose oil, chamomile, lavender or jasmine). 3. Add a food colouring and determine the quantity based on how deep you want the colour to turn out. 4. Alternatively, you can use the pure juice from berries or beetroot which has been stored in the fridge for a while. 5. Pour the final mixture into moulds and keep in the freezer until it turns solid. Since this is an all-natural lipstick, make sure you store it in the fridge to prevent it from being affected by the elements. You can use it for up to one month.

If you grow your hair out, I am pretty sure there is a phase you don’t like about it. For a lot of us, it’s the detangling process. Detangling your hair after taking out protective styles or failing to comb through it for a while is a terribly arduous task, almost like a battle with your hair. However, it doesn’t have to be so painful and difficult. We have a highly-praised remedy that you can adopt into your regimen to help you glide a comb through your hair easily – Aloe Vera Gel! This is a safer and healthier option, especially in this modern world where there are thousands of hair products that end up giving more problems than solutions due to their chemical content. Aloe Vera is a very succulent thick frond filled with cool a cool gelly substance. This plant is well-known for its miraculous benefits to the skin and the hair, so much that it is integrated into several products. Aloe Vera can be eaten or used topically on the skin and hair to provide benefits like healing wounds, boosting the immune system, enhancing skin elasticity, hydrating and growing hair and a lot more. It has high water content which is found in the gel and can help in retaining hair moisture, a feature you need to break through tangled hair. To obtain the best results, you need to choose the right aloe vera plant. The Aloe Vera Gel available at Organic Trade and Investments (OTI) is clear in colour, slightly thick and 100% organic. This is a good replacement for fresh aloe vera leaves if you can’t easily access them. With this said, let’s delve into how to use aloe vera for detangling hair. Aloe Hair Spray By now, you might be familiar with using the spray bottle to moisturize your hair. However, this remedy goes a step further by giving your hair a slippery coat to help your comb or finger glide through your hair easily. This makes brushing or combing less painful. You’ll need; ½ cup of distilled water, ½ cup of OTI Aloe Vera Gel, hair oils of your choice (OTI Cold-pressed Virgin Coconut Oil, Argan Oil, etc…), essential oils. Process: Pour water and gel into a spray bottle Add drops of your desired hair oils to seal in the moisture for longer. (A lot of which are available in our e-store ) Essential oils like Rosemary oil stimulates hair growth or mint for a nice fragrance. Shake the content of the bottle hard to ensure they are nicely mixed. When your mixture is ready, simply spray enough to dampen your hair and moisten it. Proceed to gently work through your tangles from the tip to the root of your hair with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. It should be easier than doing so on dry hair. Aloe Hair Mask This is a much simpler way to use the aloe vera gel for your hair. Whether it is our organic gel or the gel extracted from the fresh leaves, apply it thoroughly to your hair. This can be achieved by dividing your hair into sections and applying it in bits until your hair is saturated with the gel. Wash it out after a while and notice how your curl pattern is restored. NB: It is good to note that, aloe vera is not guaranteed 100% safe for everyone just like any other product or gift of nature. Some people might be more sensitive or allergic to its natural content than others. You can test your tolerance to it by applying a small amount of the gel on a relatively insensitive part of your body, like a patch of your arm or the back of your hand. If you do not see any reaction after a while, you can proceed to enjoy the goodness of this magical plant.