The Scientific name of Hog plum: Spondias pinnata (Linn.f.)
Name of Hogplum in different languages:
Sanskrit: Amrataka
Hindi: Jangli aam, Amra
English: Hogplum, Wild Mango, Andaman mombin, Indian hog plum, Indian mombin, Spanish plums
Malayalam: Ampazham- അമ്പഴം, Ambalam, Mambuli
Plant description:
Hog plum or Wild Mango is a deciduous or semi-evergreen tree growing up to 25 m tall. The leaves are pale green and arranged spirally, the fruits are small and like mangoes and the size is 4–10 cm long, ripening yellow or orange with single-seeded fruits that are edible and used to make pickles.
Useful plant parts:
Leaf, Bark, Fruit, Gum.
Medicinal uses
To treat ear diseases, Antitoxic, Gonorrhea.
Hog plum, scientifically known as Spondias mombin, is a tropical fruit native to Africa but also found in parts of Asia and the Americas. In Ayurveda, hog plum is known as “Amra” or “Amalavetasa” and is used for its various therapeutic properties. Here are some of the traditional Ayurvedic uses of hog plum:
- Digestive Health: Hog plum is believed to have digestive properties. It is often used to alleviate digestive disorders like indigestion, flatulence, and constipation. The fruit’s sour taste is thought to stimulate digestion.
- Pitta Balancing: In Ayurveda, hog plum is considered to have a cooling effect on the body. It is believed to help balance the Pitta dosha, which is associated with qualities like heat, intensity, and digestion.
- Vitamin C Source: Hog plum is a natural source of vitamin C, which is known for its antioxidant properties. It can help boost the immune system and protect the body from free radical damage.
- Anti-inflammatory: Some traditional uses of hog plum in Ayurveda involve its application externally to reduce inflammation. It is believed to have a soothing effect on the skin.
- Diuretic: Hog plum is sometimes used in Ayurveda as a diuretic, helping to promote urine production and potentially aiding in the elimination of waste products from the body.
- Oral Health: In some traditional practices, hog plum is used for oral health. It may be used in mouthwashes or as a natural remedy for gum problems.
- Gastrointestinal Disorders: In Ayurvedic medicine, hog plum is sometimes used to address specific gastrointestinal disorders, though its use for these purposes may vary.
It’s important to note that while hog plum has been traditionally used in Ayurveda for these purposes, scientific evidence supporting these specific claims may vary. If you are considering using hog plum or any other herbal remedy for therapeutic purposes, it is recommended to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual health needs and circumstances.
How to prepare medicines:
The Roots, Bark, Leaves, and Fruits are used for cholera, diarrhea, earache, night fever, ringworm, and stomach ache