Bahamian Bush Medicine: Red Mangrove, an Old Lady

Rhizophora mangle, the red mangrove,

These trees are near and dear to my heart as I have done research on them and am captivated by the amount of ecological diversity they foster. They protect regions from erosion and provide a habitat for crabs, snails, and fish. I have also gained a new appreciation for them while writing this blog as I found out they are also used in bush medicine.

The rind of the tree can be used in baths to relieve backaches and the bark can be used in teas to prevent diarrhea and heal skin lesions.

Red Mangroves contain catechin-tannic-acids(that good stuff in green tea) and are the reason for all the benefits. The leaves are also full of flavonoids though I am unsure if the leaves are also used in teas.

Fun fact: the tannins from this plant are frequently used to dye leather.

Hope you all enjoy!
Source:

Wilmanowicz, Renate. Bush Medicine in the Bahamas: A Modern Approach. Createspace, 2012. 40. Print.