The hog plum (Spondius Mombin) is a very underrated plant that has several surprising health benefits. This plant goes by several names based on which part of the world can be found. These names include: amra, caja fruit, june plum, monkey mombin, kakadu plum or Brazil nuts.
The hog plum is a fruit tree that is most prevalent in the coastal areas of Africa. The hog plum can also be found in South America and the West Indies. The tree grows to about 60 feet in height and it possesses a very thick bark. Its leaves are deciduous and pointed. The fruits from the tree are aromatic and have a oblong shape.
The hog plum is a very versatile plant. Each part of the plan has a specific medicinal purpose. The green fruits of the plant can be eaten raw and cooked with sugar. The plant is also rich with antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. In many countries like Panama, Peru and Mexico, the ripe fruit is used to prepare Jams. The bark and young leaves are used to treat diarrhea, fever, hemorrhoids, dysentry and gonorrhea. The powder that is made from the bark is also used to heal wounds. In Africa the wood from the tree is used to make huts, garden poles, axe and hoe handles. In Peru, the bark and leaves are used to help induce labor, reduce bleeding and pain during after childbirth. It is also used to stimulate the flow of breast-milk.
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