What to know about Mangifera indica (mango) before using it medicinally

Mangifera indica, commonly known as mango, is a medicinal herb that has been revered for its numerous health benefits, which range from treating digestive disorders to reducing inflammation and improving antioxidant levels in the body.

In horticultural terms, the mango tree is a tropical evergreen that is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, requiring full sun and well-drained soil to thrive. From a botanical perspective, Mangifera indica belongs to the family Anacardiaceae and is characterized by its large, leathery leaves and showy, fragrant flowers.

The herb has a long history of use in traditional medicine, with ancient Ayurvedic texts referencing its properties and recommending it for various health conditions.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Mangifera indica.

What are the medicinal properties of Mangifera indica?

Mangifera indica helps with various health issues, including diarrhea, dysentery, and rheumatism due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. The fruit's juice and pulp are used to treat these conditions. Its leaves and bark are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The seed kernel oil is used in some medical applications. It is also used as a treatment for skin conditions and as a remedy for certain types of cancer.

The active constituents responsible for its medicinal properties include various phenolic compounds, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids. These compounds possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities, which contribute to the plant's therapeutic effects. Flavonoids, specifically, have been found to have antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-allergic properties, making them useful in treating a variety of health conditions.

The parts of the plant most commonly used for medicinal purposes are the leaves, bark, fruit, and seed kernel. The leaves are used to treat fever, rheumatism, and skin conditions, while the bark is used to treat dysentery and diarrhea. The fruit is used to treat various health issues, including scurvy, anemia, and digestive problems. The seed kernel oil is used in some medical applications.

Improper use of Mangifera indica can cause side effects, including allergic reactions, such as skin rashes and itching, and gastrointestinal upset, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Long-term consumption of large amounts of the plant's seed kernel oil can cause liver damage and kidney problems. It can also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and diabetes medications.

Precautions should be taken when using Mangifera indica medicinally, including avoiding its use in individuals with allergies to mango or its constituents. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid its use, as it may cause harm to the fetus or baby. Furthermore, the plant's seed kernel oil should be used in small amounts and under medical supervision, as it can cause adverse effects if used excessively.

What are the horticulural aspects of Mangifera indica?

Mangifera indica grow well in tropical and subtropical regions with temperatures above 25°C. The plant requires full sun, well-draining soil, and high humidity to thrive. It can tolerate drought but performs best with regular watering.

Planting tips for Mangifera indica include selecting a location with good air circulation and providing a support system for the tree as it grows. Plant the sapling in a hole twice the depth of the pot, mixing in organic matter and compost to improve soil fertility.

Harvesting mangoes typically occurs between 100 to 150 days after flowering, depending on the variety. The fruit is usually ready to pick when it turns yellow, red, or orange and has a sweet aroma. Avoid picking the fruit when it's green, as it may not be ripe yet.

Common pests and diseases affecting Mangifera indica include the fruit fly, mango hopper, and mango mealybug, as well as diseases such as anthracnose and powdery mildew. Regular pruning and monitoring can help prevent infestations and infections.

What are the botanical aspects of Mangifera indica?

Mangifera indica is a tropical tree with a stout trunk, broad branches, and a dense, rounded crown. Its bark is smooth, gray, and develops cracks with age. Leaves are pinnate, with 3-5 leaflets, and grow up to 30 cm long. The plant grows up to 30-45 meters tall.

Mangifera indica belongs to the family Anacardiaceae, and its taxonomic classification is as follows: kingdom Plantae, clade Angiosperms, clade Eudicots, clade Rosids, order Sapindales, family Anacardiaceae, genus Mangifera, species M. indica. It is also known as Mangifera indica Linn.

There are over 1,000 variants of Mangifera indica, including 'Alphonso', 'Kesar', 'Neelam', and 'Dashehari'. These variants are characterized by differences in fruit size, shape, color, and flavor. They are classified based on their fruit characteristics, growing conditions, and geographical distribution.

Mangifera indica is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It has been naturalized in many tropical and subtropical regions, including Central and South America, Africa, and the Caribbean. It thrives in warm, humid climates with average annual rainfall of 750-2,000 mm.

The life cycle of Mangifera indica is characterized by three growth phases: seedling (0-2 years), juvenile (2-10 years), and mature (10+ years). The plant reaches maturity after 10-15 years, produces flowers and fruits, and can live for up to 100 years.

What are the historical aspects of Mangifera indica?

Mangifera indica is one of the oldest domesticated fruits in the world. Its historical uses date back to 2000 BCE in India, where it was cultivated for its fruit, timber, and medicinal properties.

In ancient Hindu mythology, the mango tree was considered a sacred plant, associated with the goddess Lakshmi, the deity of prosperity and good fortune. The tree was also linked to the god Shiva, who was said to have created the mango tree to provide shade for his consort.

In various cultures, the mango tree has been imbued with symbolic meanings. In Buddhism, it represents the threefold path of the Buddha: morality, meditation, and wisdom. In Hinduism, it symbolizes the union of masculine and feminine principles. In Christianity, the mango is seen as a symbol of abundance and fertility.

The mango has been mentioned in several ancient texts, including the Rigveda (1500 BCE), which describes the mango as a fruit of the gods. The epic poem, the Ramayana, also mentions the mango as a symbol of love and passion. The ancient Greek physician, Dioscorides, wrote about the mango in his book, De Materia Medica.

Historical artifacts such as pottery, coins, and sculptures from ancient India depict the mango tree in various forms. The famous Indian emperor, Ashoka, was said to have gifted mango trees to various Buddhist monks and temples. The mango has also been featured in ancient Indian art, such as the relief carvings on the walls of the temple at Ellora.