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BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

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Natural Histories

Factual: Science & Nature: Nature & Environment

Nature that has had a profound impact on human culture and society across history.

Nature that has got under our skin and profoundly impacted human culture and society across our history.

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BBC Radio 4 LW

Natural Histories: Baobab

Factual: Science & Nature

Baobab

19/09/2017

BBC Radio 4 - Natural Histories, Baobab

Brett Westwood explores our relationship with the baobab or upside-down tree.

Brett Westwood explores our ancient relationship with a tree that looks like it is standing with its head in the ground and its roots in the air: the baobab or upside-down tree.

A mature Baobab tree looks like its standing with its head in the ground and its roots in the air - hence the name the Upside-Down tree. But this tree is no joke. It is of enormous spiritual and cultural importance to local people and is also known as The Tree of Life highlighting its importance as a source of water, food, medicine and materials; for example, the bark is used for making rope, the petals for glue and the roots for making ink. But it's the edible fruits, high in vitamin C and anti-oxidants that in recent years have increased the commercial value and importance of the tree as Brett Westwood discovers as he explores our relationship with this iconic tree. Producer Sarah Blunt.

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