As an ancient Aztec remedy, mamey sapote has also gained popularity throughout North and South America. It is an ornamental evergreen tree that grows to 140 feet high. The fruit is meaty with orange flesh, brown skin, and a black pit in its center. The taste of the fruit is earthy and sweet, with fragrant flavors. The flesh is non-fibrous, which has earned it the nickname “orange avocado”. Other common names include mamey Colorado and sapote.
WHERE IT CAN BE FOUND:
Central America, South America, Caribbean, Australia, Florida, and tropical countries worldwide
PROPERTIES AND USE:
Antitumor, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, antifungal, hypotensive, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and used to treat rheumatism, arthritis, sore muscles, high cholesterol, indigestion, toothache, eye and ear conditions, skin conditions, epilepsy, diarrhea, hair loss, poor immune system function, venereal disease, headache
TRADITIONAL PREPARATION:
The Aztecs roasted the seeds, and then crushed them into powder for use in a poultice. They also extracted the oil from the seeds, and used it as
a hair treatment and to treat skin conditions, earache, and eye infection. For all conditions, eat the fruit raw. You may also create a decoction by placing 3 tablespoons of the dried herb in 1 quart cold water. Cover, and cook over low heat. Simmer for 45 minutes. Strain, and drink 2 cups per day. For inflammation, rheumatism, arthritis, and sore muscles, crush the leaves and apply directly to the affected area. Repeat for three days, or until the symptoms subside.
