Mangos (Mangifera indica) are native to and the national fruit of India, but cultivated world-wide. Trees can reach heights of over 100 feet, and bear fruit for over 300 years! It is one of the Rasayana herbs used in Ayurvedic medicine, preparations for prolonging lifespan, and has different medicinal characteristics depending on the part of the plant.
The leaves are considered auspicious in India and used to decorate doorways during celebrations like weddings, and the mango fruit is the symbol of love and fertility. It is also thought by some to be the basis of the paisley pattern.
Most of us are familiar with the consumption of the fruits, either ripe or raw. Mangos provide over 20 vitamins and minerals, and are rich in antioxidants and carotenoids. Mango fruits are also one of the fruits that are high in natural digestive enzymes—specifically, amylase. However, Mango Leaves also have a history in food use and health benefits. Mango leaves are used as a tea, which is thought of as similar in color, taste, aroma and tonic use to regular tea by the Chinese, but they also have a use in some traditions as a vegetable.
Traditional and clinical investigations have found Mango leaf extract to promote healthy metabolism. Recent clinical studies have found that Mango Leaf extract also helps support athletic performance, recovery, energy, as well as cognition.
Scientific investigation has found that Mangos or Mango leaves to benefit healthy blood sugar levels, as well as confer specific benefits to heart, skin, brain, eye and bone health.
No wonder it is said that the Lord Ganesha in Hinduism holds a mango as a symbol of potential perfection!
*This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.
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Photo by RANJEET CHAUHAN