Mangifera indica

Besides taking into account the primary produce from their farm by which a farmer can gain financial benefit, it is worthwhile, especially in today’s economic environment, to consider some other alternative ways in which they can earn a supplemental income.

Using the leaves from the Mango tree can be one such possibility, as they contain many healing properties and can be dried, powdered and sold as a health supplement. At Solitude Farm we have begun doing this, and many of our guests are appreciative of the opportunity to be able to take home Mango leaves with them in such a simple and immediate form as their powder, as they have numerous medicinal benefits.

Mango leaves were even used to make traditional medicines in Ayurveda. They contain fiber, pectin and vitamin C which are all beneficial in controlling the blood sugar level as well as bad cholesterol, thereby making them highly useful in curbing the symptoms of diabetes, and in keeping high blood pressure under control.

Here are a few other medicinal properties of Mango leaves:

• They contain enzymes and hormones that boost digestion and regulate the accumulation of fat in the body.
• They strengthen blood vessels, and can help treat varicose veins.
• Their consumption can help break down gall and kidney stones.
• They are helpful for people suffering from respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis.
• The powder, taken with water two to three times a day can help stop dysentery.

And a host of others that one can research quite easily!

We are surrounded by Mother Nature’s benevolent abundance, recognizing this, and using this knowledge to take action by actually making use of it where applicable, is what a Road Back to Nature is essentially about.