Discover the surprising health benefits of mango Tree leaves, including their ability to control diabetes, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation. Learn how to use these versatile leaves for medicinal purposes and traditional remedies.

Many people are aware of the delicious tropical fruit that comes from mango trees, but not many know that the leaves are also edible. The young green leaves of the mango tree are tender and used in cooking in some cultures. Mango leaves are highly nutritious and are commonly used to make tea and supplements. People have utilized the leaves of the Mangifera indica species in traditional healing practices like Ayurveda and Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Not just the leaves, but also the stem, bark, roots, and fruit have been used in traditional medicine. However, the leaves are believed to have specific benefits in treating diabetes and other health conditions.

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Here are unexpected health benefits and applications of mango tree leaves supported by scientific evidence.

1. Plant Compounds

Mango leaves contain a variety of beneficial plant compounds, including polyphenols and terpenoids. (1 ) Terpenoids are important for vision and immune health, as well as antioxidants that protect cells from harmful molecules. (2) Polyphenols have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may improve gut bacteria and treat or prevent conditions such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Mangiferin, (3, 4) a polyphenol found in high amounts in mango and its leaves  (5,6,7), has been studied for its potential anti-microbial and disease-fighting properties (8), but more research is needed. Overall, mango leaves are a rich source of compounds that may promote health and protect against disease. 

2. In Managing Diabetes

Mango leaf extract may have potential benefits for managing diabetes. Studies have shown that it can affect fat metabolism and lower triglyceride and blood sugar levels in mice and rats (9,10,11 ). One study in rats found that mango leaf extract reduced hyperlipidemia, a condition marked by high levels of triglycerides and cholesterol. Another study in rats compared mango leaf extract to an oral diabetes drug and found that it was effective in lowering blood sugar levels. Further studies are required to establish these results in human subjects.

3. Anti-inflammatory Properties 

Mango leaves may have anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of the compound mangiferin (12, 13,14, ). This can help to reduce the risk of various diseases caused by chronic inflammation. Studies in animals suggest that the anti-inflammatory properties of mango leaves may even have a protective effect on the brain against conditions such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s (15 ). Further studies are required to establish these results in human subjects.

4. Anti-Cancer Properties

Research suggests that certain compounds in mango leaves, such as mangiferin, may have anticancer properties. It is thought that it combats oxidative stress and inflammation (16, 17 ). Test-tube studies have shown potential effects against various types of cancer such as leukemia, lung, brain, breast, cervix, and prostate (18). Additionally, the bark of the mango tree also exhibits strong anticancer potential due to its lignans. However, it is important to note that these findings are preliminary and more studies are needed before mango leaves can be considered as a cancer treatment.

5. In Protection Against Fat Gain

Mango leaf extract may have potential benefits for managing obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome (19 ). Studies in animals have shown that it can inhibit fat accumulation in cells and promote fat metabolism by increasing levels of the protein adiponectin (20, 21, 22,). A study in rats found that those fed mango leaf tea along with a high-fat diet gained less abdominal fat compared to those given only the high-fat diet (23, 24, ). A 12-week study in adults with excess weight found that those given 150 mg of mangiferin daily had lower fat levels in the blood and better insulin resistance, which may suggest improved diabetes management (25). Further studies are required to establish these results in human subjects

6. In Treating Stomach Ulcers

Mango leaves and other parts of the plant have traditionally been used to treat stomach ulcers and other digestive issues (26, 27, ). Studies in animals have shown that orally administering mango leaf extract can decrease the number of stomach lesions and improve digestive damage (28). However, more research is needed on humans to confirm these findings.

7. In Benefits Your Hair Health

Mango leaves are believed to promote hair growth and may be used in some hair care products. However, there is little scientific evidence to support these claims. Nevertheless, mango leaves are high in antioxidants, which may protect hair follicles from damage, potentially promoting hair growth (29, 30,). More research on humans is needed to confirm these potential benefits.

8. In Supporting Healthy Skin

Mango leaves contain antioxidants that may help to reduce the signs of skin aging (31). Studies in animals have shown that mango extract can increase collagen production and reduce the appearance of wrinkles (32). The antibacterial effects of mango leaf extract have also been demonstrated in test-tube studies against Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria that can cause staph infections. Mangiferin, a polyphenol found in mango leaves, has been studied for its potential in promoting wound healing in human skin for psoriasis (33). Further studies are required to establish these results in human subjects.

What is The Side Effect of The Mango Tree leaf?

Mango leaf products such as powder and tea are considered safe for human consumption. While limited studies in animals have not shown any side effects, there is a lack of human safety studies (35, 36 ). As with any supplement, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss dosage and potential interactions with other medications before consuming any form of the mango leaf.

How To Use Mango Tree Leaves?

Mango leaves can be consumed in various ways, such as in tea, powder, extract, or supplement form. One popular way of consuming mango leaves is by making tea from fresh or dried leaves. The powder can also be mixed with water or added to skin ointments or bathwater. Additionally, some supplements such as Zynamite, which comprises 60% or more mangiferin, are available in the market (34).

However, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements as there is a lack of safety studies.

Conclusion

The health benefits of mango tree leaves are yet to be fully understood, but there is evidence to suggest that consuming them can provide benefits for skin, digestion, and weight management. It is important to note that more research is needed to confirm these potential benefits and understand the optimal ways to consume mango leaves.