Also known as hog plum, ubos is a stately and erect tree with many medicinal properties. It has a corky bark, a buttressed trunk, with large leaves that are hairy underneath. The flowers are small and fragrant, and the fruits are similar to a plum. The ubos fruits grow in clusters, and they are a golden-yellow color when ripe. The skin of the fruit is tough, and the pulp is very juicy and acidic.
WHERE IT CAN BE FOUND:
Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, South America
PROPERTIES AND USE:
Abortifacient, antibacterial, antitumor, antiseptic, antispasmodic, nervine, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, sedative, diuretic, hypotensive, astringent, vermifuge, stomachic, tonic, analgesic, laxative, febrifuge. Treats candida and other vaginal infections, poor lactation, colic, diarrhea, sore throat, cough, herpes, gonorrhea, skin conditions, insect bites, headache. Induces labor, controls bleeding after childbirth, and is used as a contraceptive.
TRADITIONAL PREPARATION:
For diarrhea, gonorrhea, and sore throat,
boil a handful of ubos buds and bark in 3 cups water for 10 minutes. Drink a cup before meals. Continue for 10 days when treating gonorrhea. For skin conditions, insect bites, and weakness during the second or third trimester of pregnancy, boil 2 large handfuls of leaves and
a 1-inch by 6-inch strip of bark in 2 gallons water for 10 minutes. Use as a bath. You may also rub bruised leaves directly on the affected area.
For fever and headaches, macerate the leaves in a bit of alcohol, and apply directly on the head overnight for up to three nights. For all conditions, boil 3 cups water. Add 9 dried and crushed leaves, and a 3-inch piece of stem. Continue boiling, uncovered, for 30 minutes. Strain before drinking. Drink 3 cups per day.
