Question 1

What is Mangifera indica used for in Ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

In Ayurveda, Mangifera indica is used across multiple therapeutic areas. The bark is prepared as a decoction for bleeding disorders and diarrhoea, the leaves are used to support blood glucose management, the flowers assist with urinary complaints, and the seed kernel is incorporated into formulations for intestinal and skin conditions. Different parts of the tree target different doshas, predominantly Pitta and Kapha.

Question 2

Is Mangifera indica the same as the common mango tree?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Mangifera indica is the scientific name for the common mango tree. It belongs to the family Anacardiaceae and is native to South and Southeast Asia. In Sri Lanka, it is known in Sinhala as Amba and has been cultivated on the island for thousands of years both as a fruit crop and a medicinal plant.

Question 3

What part of the mango tree is used medicinally?

Accepted Answer

Virtually every part of Mangifera indica has documented medicinal applications: the bark, leaves, flowers, fruit pulp, seed kernel, and resin are all used in traditional Ayurvedic and Deshiya Chikitsa preparations. The bark and seed kernel are most commonly used in compound formulations, while leaves are widely prepared as a simple infusion for home use.

Question 4

When is mango season in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The main mango season in Sri Lanka typically runs from April through July, coinciding with the transitional period around the Sinhala New Year in April. Some varieties extend into August. Markets and roadside stalls across the island's low and mid-country regions stock a wide variety of local mango cultivars during these months.

Question 5

What is mangiferin and why is it significant?

Accepted Answer

Mangiferin is a naturally occurring polyphenol found in various parts of Mangifera indica, particularly in the leaves and bark. It has attracted significant pharmacological interest for its potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antidiabetic properties. Its presence in the plant aligns with many of the traditional therapeutic uses documented in Ayurvedic texts.

Question 6

Can mango tree products cause allergies?

Accepted Answer

Some people are sensitive to the sap and resin of Mangifera indica, which contain compounds related to urushiol — the same family of substances responsible for reactions to poison ivy and cashew shells. This can cause contact dermatitis, particularly around the mouth when eating fruit or on the skin when handling unripe fruit and leaves. The ripe fruit itself is generally well tolerated by the majority of people.

Question 7

Where can I see mango trees growing in Sri Lanka during a visit?

Accepted Answer

Mango trees are widespread across Sri Lanka's dry and intermediate zones, particularly in the North Central and North Western provinces. They are commonly seen in rural home gardens, near ancient sites such as Polonnaruwa, and on dedicated fruit farms. Visiting a working fruit farm during the April–July season allows travellers to see multiple local varieties growing and to taste freshly harvested fruit.