Native to India and Burma, ever since the Vedic period, mangoes have been highly appreciated in Ayurvedic healing and cooking. In Ayurveda, mangoes are revered for their medicinal properties and are considered a symbol of good health and vitality. Mangoes offer many health benefits, supporting digestion, vision, immunity, brain function, and skin health. Enjoy mangoes mindfully for overall well-being, following Ayurvedic guidelines for optimal health and beauty benefits.
According to Ayurveda, the timing of consuming mango is also crucial. During the summer season and daytime, you should consume the fruit to enjoy its cooling effect most beneficially. Eating it in the evening or at night may disturb sleep due to its heating properties.
Mango in Ayurveda
In Ayurvedic medicine, mangoes are cherished for their ability to balance the body’s energies and improve overall health. Here are some Ayurvedic applications:
Dosha Balance
Mangoes are considered to have a balancing effect on Vata (air) and Pitta (fire) doshas. Due to their natural sweetness and cooling nature, they can reduce excess heat (Pitta) and dryness (Vata). However, they should be consumed in moderation to avoid an imbalance in Kapha (earth) dosha, especially if overripe.
Digestive Aid
In Ayurveda, mangoes are praised for their ability to kindle the digestive fire, or agni. The fruit’s enzymes and fiber are believed to promote better digestion and prevent ama, or toxins, from accumulating in the digestive tract. Ayurveda recommends consuming mangoes with a pinch of salt and black pepper to improve digestion and nutrient absorption.
Skin and Beauty
Mangoes are believed to nourish and hydrate the skin. Ayurvedic texts describe the use of mango pulp as a topical application for enhancing complexion and treating skin conditions. Additionally, mango butter (from the seed) is used for its emollient properties, offering a natural remedy for dry skin, eczema, and other skin issues.
Blood Purification
Mangiferin and other polyphenols in mangoes are considered to have blood-purifying properties, reducing ama (toxins) in the blood. This can contribute to clearer skin, improved circulation, and overall vitality.
Weight Management
Ayurveda suggests that mangoes, when consumed in moderation, can help in weight management by enhancing satiety and reducing cravings. Since they help regulate the digestive fire, they can be beneficial for those looking to maintain a balanced weight.
Anti-inflammatory and Wound Healing
Mangoes are seen as a natural anti-inflammatory in Ayurveda. Traditionally, mango leaves and bark are used to make decoctions for treating inflammation and infections. The juice of raw mango is also applied topically for minor burns and sunburns.
Boosting Immunity
Rich in vitamins A and C, mangoes are seen as natural immunity boosters in Ayurveda. Consuming mango during summer is encouraged to fortify the body’s defenses, as its cooling nature is believed to help prevent heat-related ailments.
How to Incorporate Mango into Ayurvedic Routines
- Mango Chutney: This spiced, tangy dish, often made with raw mango, can enhance digestion and satisfy taste cravings.
- Mango Lassi: A traditional Ayurvedic drink made by blending mango with yogurt and a touch of honey. It aids digestion, cools the body, and is particularly nourishing for the skin.
- Mango Pulp as a Skin Pack: Mix mango pulp with sandalwood powder and a few drops of rose water to create a skin-brightening face mask.
Mangoes are an exceptional fusion of taste and therapeutic qualities, showing why Ayurveda reveres this fruit. Whether enjoyed fresh, used in skincare, or included in a balanced diet, mangoes offer a delightful way to support both health and beauty naturally.
Curious and Fun Facts about Mango
- Ancient Origins: Mangoes have been cultivated for over 4,000 years, with their origins traced to India and Southeast Asia. They are mentioned in ancient Indian texts and have long been regarded as a symbol of love and prosperity in India.
- Mango Varieties Galore: There are over 1,000 varieties of mangoes worldwide, each with its own unique flavor, color, and texture. Some popular varieties include Alphonso, Ataulfo, Haden, Tommy Atkins, and Kent.
- Most Popular Mango Cultivar Was Initially Rejected: The current world market is dominated by the cultivar “Tommy Atkins” that first fruited in 1940 in southern Florida and was initially rejected commercially by Florida researchers.
- Mango Trees Live Long and Prosper: Mango trees can live for over 100 years, producing fruit throughout their lifespan. The trees are known to grow to impressive heights, with some reaching up to 100 feet!
- The National Fruit of India: Mango is not only a beloved fruit but also the national fruit of India, Pakistan, and the Philippines. It’s cherished across these countries as an emblem of culture and tradition.
- The Mango Festival: Every year, India hosts the International Mango Festival in Delhi, celebrating mango varieties and offering tastings, cooking competitions, and mango-related events.
- Cultural Symbolism: In Hindu culture, mango leaves are often used in rituals and to decorate doorways during festivals and weddings to symbolize good fortune and prosperity.
- The World’s Largest Mango: The world record for the largest mango was set in the Philippines in 2009, weighing in at 3.5 kilograms (about 7.7 pounds). That’s a whole meal in one mango!
- Medicinal Properties in Ayurveda: In Ayurvedic medicine, various parts of the mango tree, including the bark, leaves, and seeds, are used for treating ailments like diarrhea, dysentery, and digestive issues.
- Mango Butter: Mango butter, extracted from the seeds, is used in skincare for its moisturizing properties. Unlike other oils, it’s lightweight, non-greasy, and suitable for all skin types.
- Mango Allergy: Some people are allergic to mango skins due to urushiol, a compound also found in poison ivy. This can cause a reaction in people with sensitive skin if they handle the fruit without peeling it first.
- Mango in Art and Literature: Mangoes have appeared in various art forms and literature across cultures, often symbolizing abundance, love, and desire.
- Mango and Ripeness Tricks: Mangoes continue to ripen after being harvested, making them easy to store and ship globally. To ripen a mango faster, you can place it in a paper bag with an apple or banana, as the ethylene gas produced speeds up the process.
With their history, symbolism, and culinary versatility, mangoes are more than just a delicious fruit – they’re a fascinating part of global culture and cuisine with myriad of health and beauty benefits.
