Traditionally, Limbondo is a salt water obtained by filtration of the ashes of the male flowers of the palm tree. 
 
The limbondo may be used in liquid form or solid form (the most available in market places). Limbondo" (in Lingala language), epapa (in otetela language), has its  modern versions known as Pure Kauw (Potasse), baking soda used in various Congolese recipes such as the most popular "Pondu ya Limbondo".