Check Out The English Names for Some Common used Ghanaian Items Including Bentoa and Tapoli

For most of us, we grew up hearing and using some common items. And funny enough, we never had the chance to know or learn their English names. These items are commonly used in Ghana and have become part of our daily lives.

Now, it’s time to learn the English names of some of these items so that we don’t mention them wrongly when trying to express them in English. Let’s go!!!

English Names for some common items in Ghana

Acheampong – Chromolaena Odorata

“Acheampong” as is commonly referred to in Ghana has been one of the greatest first aids in Ghana. It helps reduce loss of blood in most severe cut cases. If you didn’t know the English name, then put it at the back of your mind that it’s called Chromolaena Odorata.

Alasa – African star fruit

The “Alasa” fruit is highly rich in Vitamin C and helps with good vision.

Alasa is a popular fruit loved by many Ghanaians. Most people do not know its English name. The Alasa is called African Star Fruit.

It aids in weight loss and also natural antioxidant. It’s a natural remedy for constipation, toothache, sore throat and indigestion.

Bentoa – Enema bulb syringe

“Bentoa” is owned in almost every Ghanaian household. It is used to insert medicine through the anvs to help cleanse the digestive system. I am sure most people can relate to this.

It’s english name is Enema Bulb Syringe

“Asanka” or “Apotoyewa” – Earthenware.

When you go to the chop bar to eat fufu or rice balls, that hardened heavy bowl you’re served with which you normally refer to as asanka has an english name. “Asanka” or “Apotoyewa” is the local name for Earthenware bowl.

Most people like me, will choose to have their fufu in this any day.

It is also used to grind as well. “Eta” or “Tapoli” is the wooden grinder that supports the asanka and is used to grind vegetables and spices.

Aluguntugui/Sweet Apple – Soursop

Growing up, we were been told the English name for Aluguntugui is sweet Apple. Well, it is not true because the right name for aluguntugui is SOURSOP.

This fruit help boost the immune system and stabilize blood sugar levels.

Nkontomire – Taro Leaves

You’ve been consuming nkontomire since childhood but I’m sure you don’t know the English name for this.

Many people refer to nkontomire as cocoyam leaves which is absolutely wrong.

It is called TARO LEAVES. 

The benefits of consuming kontomire include reducing cholesterol, controlling blood pressure and prevents anaemia.

Prekese – Aidan Fruit

Prekese has some sweet fragrance which is valued as it is use to spice up rich foods.

It also helps in controlling diabetes and also acts as a mosquito repellent.

It is highly antibacterial as well.

Dawadawa – African locust Bean

Dawadawa, known in english as the African locust beans is highly rich in essential nutrients which is good for the body.

It boosts the immune system which aid in fighting against several infections.

Nunum – Mint Leaves

Mint may be effective at relieving digestion problems such as upset stomach and indigestion. It’s a natural remedy for the treatment of mouth odour.

Yooyi – Velvet Tamarind

Velvet Tamarind is rich in vitamins C and help boost the immune system as well.

Beduru – Turkey berries

This plant is highly rich in iron and helpful in the treatment of anemia.

It is best eaten raw and not cooked.

It is grown locally in Ghana. It is also known as “kwahu susua”.

Hwentia – Negro Pepper

Negro pepper plays an essential role in fighting malaria due to the presence of anti-malarial property in it. It also has antibacterial properties which help fight against bacterial infections .

Gap teeth- Diastema