Mango (Aam)

Botanically it is known as Mangifera indica. It is a member of the cashew family (Anacardiacea), one of the most important and widely cultivated fruits of the tropical world. The tree is evergreen, often reaching 50 to 60 ft in height and attaining great age. Leaves are lanceolate, up to 12 inches long; the flowers small, pinkish and fragrant, are borne in large terminal panicles.  

The fruit varies greatly in size and character;" the smallest mangoes are no larger than plums, while others may weigh 4 to 5 pds. Its form is oval, round, heart shaped, kidney shaped or long and slender. Some varieties are beautifully coloured with shades of red and yellow, while others are dull green. The single large seed is flattened, the flesh that surrounds it is yellow to orange in colour, juicy, sweet and of delicious spicy flavour. Mangoes are a rich source of vitamins A, C and D.

The unripe fruit is acidic, astringent and antiscorbutic; the ripe fruit is antiscorbutic, diuretic, luxative, invigorating, fattening, and astringent. Sun dried slices of the unripe fruit is very useful in scurvy. The fried skin of the unripe fruit is given with sugar in menorrhagia. The fruit juice increases sexual vigour and sexual strength. It cures impotency. The ripe fruit is often used as a sexual tonic.

Benefit and uses of Mango.

• Mangoes are full packed with vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants and contain like all fruits very few proteins, fats and calories. They are perfect to replenish salts, vitamins and energy after physical exercise.
• It is a mineral packed chemical free food that has amazing benefits for our health.
• The mango-milk cure is an ideal treatment for loss of weight.
• Mangoes are thought to help stop bleeding, to strengthen the heart, and to benefit the brain.
• Taking Mango regularly makes the complexion fair and the skin soft and shining.
• Feeding the powder of dried kernel of Mango seeds with fresh water cures the habit of eating soil in kinds.
• Dietary fiber has a protective effect against degenerative diseases, especially with regards to the heart; may help prevent certain types of cancer, as well as lowering blood cholesterol levels.