This is an evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 metres tall. The intertwined branches have short twigs which are very hard and thorny. The plant is sometimes harvested from the wild for local medicinal use and as a source of dye. A decoction of the wood ashes is used in dyeing. A fragrant resin, known as Abu Beka, is obtained from the plant. The wood is burnt to provide potash, which is used in making soap. The light yellow to pale red wood is dense, even-grained and very hard. It is used for making knife and other tool handles. A decoction of the roots is used to restore failing strength. When boiled with sorghum flour, the root is used to treat Black Water fever. The macerated root is laxative and vermifuge. It is used in the treatment of stomach aches and kwashiorkor. The branches make good toothbrushes. Children eat raw fruits.