Medicinal Properties of Mimusops Elengi Fruit Used at Home
Mimusops
elengi, commonly known as Bakul in Bengali and Maulsari in Hindi,
is an evergreen flowering tree native to South Asia. While it is best known for
its small, fragrant flowers, the tree’s fruit is a hidden treasure of medicinal
benefits, especially in traditional home remedies. The Mimusops elengi fruit
may be small and relatively unknown in modern medicine, but in folk and
Ayurvedic traditions, it holds an important place for its healing properties.
Description
and Nutritional Content:
The Mimusops
elengi fruit is small, oval-shaped, and green when raw, turning yellowish or
reddish-brown when ripe. It has a sweet and mildly astringent taste. The fruit
is a source of essential vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin A, as well as
minerals like iron and calcium. It also contains plant-based antioxidants,
tannins, and flavonoids, which are responsible for its therapeutic effects.
1. Improves
Dental and Oral Health:
One of the
most popular traditional uses of Mimusops elengi fruit at home is for dental
care. The fruit has strong astringent properties that help treat bleeding gums,
toothache, and bad breath. Gargling with water boiled with crushed fruit or
chewing the dried fruit is a common home remedy. It helps tighten gums and
prevent oral infections.
2. Supports
Digestive Health:
The fruit is
used in many households to treat mild digestive problems. When consumed in
moderate amounts, the astringent and slightly laxative nature of the fruit
helps ease diarrhea and control dysentery. It soothes the stomach and improves
digestion without irritating the intestinal lining. A decoction made from the
dried fruit pulp is often used for stomach upsets.
3. Treats
Respiratory Issues:
Mimusops
elengi fruit is beneficial in treating respiratory problems like cough, asthma,
and bronchitis. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe throat irritation
and reduce inflammation in the airways. At home, people often prepare a simple
syrup or infusion of the fruit to treat persistent coughs and congestion.
4. Regulates
Menstrual Disorders:
In
traditional home remedies, Mimusops elengi fruit is sometimes used to treat
irregular or painful menstruation. Its astringent and calming effects help
regulate menstrual flow and ease cramps. A herbal tea made with the dried fruit
is used in some communities as a natural remedy for such issues.
5. Promotes
Skin Health:
The
antioxidants and vitamin C in the fruit make it good for the skin. Applying the
paste of the fruit pulp or consuming the fruit regularly can help reduce skin
blemishes, acne, and rashes. It is used in homemade face packs and traditional
treatments for skin infections.
6. Boosts
Immunity and Overall Vitality:
Because of
its nutrient-rich profile and antioxidant content, the Mimusops elengi fruit
helps strengthen the immune system. It protects the body from common infections
and promotes overall health. Consuming this fruit as a part of a home-based
wellness routine enhances energy and vitality.
7. Natural
Remedy for Mouth Ulcers:
The cooling
and healing properties of the fruit make it an effective treatment for mouth
ulcers. Applying the pulp directly on the ulcers or rinsing the mouth with its
extract provides relief and speeds up healing.
Conclusion:
Though not
widely commercialized, the Mimusops elengi fruit is a powerful medicinal fruit
used in countless home remedies in South Asia. From improving dental health to
treating digestive and respiratory issues, it offers a wide range of benefits.
Easy to prepare and safe when used moderately, this fruit is a natural healer
that deserves more attention in modern herbal practices. Encouraging its use at
home can contribute to better health while preserving traditional knowledge
passed down through generations.
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