Origin and history
The carob tree is a typical Mediterranean tree, native to the Middle East and the Mediterranean region. Since ancient times, it has been cultivated for its edible pods, known as carobs, whose sweet pulp was used as an energy food for travelers and animals. The seeds, which are remarkably consistent in weight, were long used as a unit of measurement for gold and precious stones—giving rise to the word "carat." In popular tradition, carob was also known as "St. John's bread," because according to legend, it nourished John the Baptist during his stay in the desert. Today, it is being rediscovered as a natural alternative to cocoa and as a wellness ingredient.
