Mango indica Linn. is the world’s largest fruit tree, growing to 100 feet high, with a trunk up to 20 feet in circumference. The bark, roots, flowers, leaves, and fruit all possess different and myriad health benefits. Don Alejandro León Recino, a Maya healer we met in Nuevo Esperanza, Honduras, spoke to us at length about the health benefits of the bark. It’s one of his go-to treatments.
WHERE IT CAN BE FOUND:
India, Caribbean, Central America, South America, Southeast Asia, Australia, West Africa, Florida, Hawaii
PROPERTIES AND USE:
Astringent, anti-inflammatory, stomachic, antiparasitic, antibiotic, febrifuge, hypotensive, and used to treat indigestion, diarrhea, parasitic skin conditions, vomiting, nausea, syphilis, bleeding wounds, ulcers, heavy menstruation, diabetes. It also treats a condition known as having too much “heat” in the system.
TRADITIONAL PREPARATION:
For all conditions, boil three 4-inch by 6-inch pieces of mango bark in 1 gallon water for 30 minutes. Strain, and drink in place of water until symptoms subside. For heavy menstruation or too much “heat” in the system, juice a 4-inch by 6-inch piece of mango bark. Add to 1 liter water. Administer by the teaspoonful until symptoms subside.
