Mango / Mango criollo
Scientific Name: Mangifera indica
Origin: Asia
Botanical Family: Anacardiaceae
Mango criollo is an evergreen tree native to India and Southeast Asia, known for its nutritious fruit and medicinal properties.
Brief History and Description
Culinary Usage and Nutritional Properties
Mango contains carbohydrates, lipids, fatty acids, protein, amino acids, organic acids,3 magnesium, potassium, niacin, vitamin K, vitamin B6, vitamin E, copper,4 vitamin A, vitamin C, and natural enzymes that help in breaking down proteins.5 Mango pulp includes the two major categories of phenolic acids as the phytochemical components that are secondary plant metabolites. These components are essential to the human diet because of their biological abilities and health benefits.6 This fruit can be used raw, in the form of ice cream, or mixed in a variety of foods.7
Economic and Environmental aspects
Mangoes' social and economic importance is enormous for local communities in rural areas and countries that benefit from their trade and consumption. Today, almost all people know mango and are aware of its importance in nutrition. On the other hand, its delicious taste has increased the demand for this popular fruit, so mango cultivation is economically profitable.8
Annual Yield
A mature Mango tree bears 200–600 kg of fruit in one year.
Pharmacological Activities and Bio-active Properties
Mango has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activities,
It has antimicrobial, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-allergenic, analgesic, and immune system activating effects,9
It helps heart health,
It supports digestive health,
It helps eye health,
It helps prevent diabetes,10
Mango leaves promote hair growth,
Mango leaves also protect the brain from conditions like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's,11
Dried flowers have medicinal value and are used to treat dysentery.12
Green Your Inbox!
With our Newsletters, Stay updated on our Stories of Change and Growth.
As a gift, get a personalised Nature E-card from PH.