What to know about Manihot esculenta (cassava) before using it medicinally

Manihot esculenta, commonly known as cassava, is a nutrient-rich herb that offers numerous health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity, thus playing a crucial role in preventing chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.

Horticulturally, cassava is a versatile crop that can thrive in various environments, requiring minimal care and maintenance, making it an ideal choice for small-scale farmers and gardeners. Botanically, the herb is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family, characterized by its waxy leaves and starchy roots.

Historically, cassava has been a staple food in many tropical regions, with ancient civilizations such as the Aztecs and Mayans relying on it as a primary source of nutrition.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Manihot esculenta .

What are the medicinal properties of Manihot esculenta ?

Manihot esculenta helps with diabetes management, cardiovascular diseases, and digestive issues. It is also used to reduce fever and inflammation, and as an antidote for certain poisonings.

The active constituents of cassava include cyanogenic glycosides, saponins, and flavonoids, which are responsible for its medicinal properties. These compounds have been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects.

The roots and leaves of cassava are most commonly used for medicinal purposes. The roots are a rich source of starch and calories, while the leaves contain a higher concentration of nutrients and medicinal compounds.

Improper use of cassava can lead to cyanide poisoning, which is a potentially life-threatening condition. This occurs when the cyanogenic glycosides in the plant are not broken down properly. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, and respiratory distress.

Precautions must be taken when using cassava medicinally, including proper identification of the plant, correct dosage, and preparation methods. It is also essential to be aware of any underlying medical conditions or allergies that may interact with cassava.

What are the horticulural aspects of Manihot esculenta ?

Manihot esculenta grow best in tropical and subtropical regions with well-defined wet and dry seasons. The ideal temperature range is between 20-30°C, with high temperatures inhibiting growth. It requires full sun to partial shade and a minimum of 20 inches of rainfall annually.

Planting tips for cassava involve selecting a fresh and healthy stem cutting or seedling. Planting should be done during the wet season, about 30 cm deep and 1-2 meters apart. The soil should be fertile and well-draining, with a pH between 5.5-6.5. Avoid planting in areas with standing water or where the soil is prone to waterlogging.

Harvesting cassava typically occurs 12-18 months after planting, when the stems turn yellow and the roots are fully developed. Harvesting should be done carefully to avoid damaging the roots. The entire root system can be harvested, but the largest roots are usually the most desirable. Leave some roots in the ground to allow for regrowth and subsequent harvests.

Cassava is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including the cassava mealybug, green mite, and cassava mosaic virus. Root rot caused by Phytophthora and Macrophomina is also common. Regular monitoring and crop rotation can help prevent infestations and infections. Use of resistant varieties and integrated pest management techniques can minimize losses.

What are the botanical aspects of Manihot esculenta ?

Manihot esculenta is a shrub native to South America, with a height of 1-4 meters, having a woody stem with a smooth, grayish-brown bark and a pinnate leaf with 3-5 pairs of leaflets. The plant has a woody root system.

Manihot esculenta is classified in the family Euphorbiaceae, subfamily Aizoideae, and is part of the genus Manihot, being closely related to the genus Tithonia. It is further categorized as a species in the kingdom Plantae, class Magnoliopsida, and order Malpighiales. The classification is based on its morphological and molecular characteristics.

The variants of Manihot esculenta include the sweet cassava, which has a sweeter root, and the bitter cassava, which has a more bitter root. There are also several landraces, such as the "agricultura" and the "forrageiro", which are bred for their specific characteristics. These variants and landraces show variation in their root size and shape.

Manihot esculenta is native to the tropical regions of South America, particularly in the savannas and grasslands of Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It has been naturalized in other parts of the Americas, Africa, and Asia. The plant thrives in areas with high temperatures and high rainfall.

The life cycle of Manihot esculenta is characterized by a growth phase that lasts around 6-8 months, followed by a flowering phase, and then a seed production phase. The plant grows from the rhizomes and tubers, producing a new stem and leaves. It then flowers and produces capsules with 3-5 seeds each. After seed dispersal, the plant dies back, but the rhizomes and tubers survive the winter.

What are the historical aspects of Manihot esculenta ?

Manihot esculenta is a staple crop in many tropical regions, with a history of being cultivated for food and used in various traditional medicines. It was first domesticated in South America over 2,000 years ago. In Africa, cassava was introduced around the 16th century.

In many indigenous cultures, cassava is associated with creation myths, such as the Tupi mythology of Brazil, which attributes the plant's origin to the goddess Iara. The plant's name, Manihot, also has its roots in indigenous languages, specifically Tupi.

Cassava has significant symbolic meanings in various cultures, representing fertility, abundance, and community in some societies. In others, it symbolizes spiritual connection and ancestral wisdom. Its uses in ceremonies and rituals underscore its importance in cultural heritage.

Historical texts, such as the Spanish conquistador Pedro Cieza de León's "La Crónica del Perú" (1553), provide records of cassava cultivation in pre-Columbian America. The plant's spread across the Americas, Africa, and Asia is documented in European colonial texts from the 16th to 18th centuries.

Archaeological evidence, including ceramic artifacts from pre-Columbian sites in South America, demonstrate cassava's importance in ancient cultures. The plant's tubers were preserved and stored in ceramic vessels, indicating a sophisticated understanding of food preservation and storage techniques.