Mangos are a part of Indian life since time immemorial. Apart from enjoying the fruit of it, a variety of dishes are prepared from mango and even its seeds. At the same time, mangoes are used as a medicine too. The leaves of mango have been used as a potent tool for brushing the teeth in Kerala like how neem twigs are used in the north.
According to Nutraingedient, literature demonstrating functional benefits following polyphenol consumption, and previous rodent and pilot human studies, suggest that a mango leaf extract with high levels of the polyphenol mangiferin may exert beneficial effects on human brain function, including the enhancement of cognitive function.
A company in Kerala has started using this for expanding their business where mango leaves are collected as powdered to make it a tooth powder. The Kasaragod-based company Inowellness Nikka is now buying mago leaves from farmers offering them prices more than the fruit itself.
It was found that Kuttiattoor mangoes have the best quality, the company representatives arrived at Kuttiattoor and started collecting the mango leaves. The leaves were collected for Rs 150 per kg last day whereas the rate of mangoes is less than Rs 100 a kg.
No doubt, soon the age-old practice of brushing the teeth using mango will become a major hit in Kerala, especially among those who cherish tradition.
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