Spondias dulcis (Ambarella)

Spondias dulcis (syn. Spondias cytherea), known commonly as ambarella (ඇඹරැල්ලා) in Sri Lanka, is a tropical tree, with edible fruit containing a fibrous pit. In the English speaking Caribbean it is typically known as golden apple and elsewhere in the Caribbean as pommecythere or cythere.

This fast-growing tree can reach up to 20 m in its native range of Melanesia and Polynesia; however, it usually averages 10–12 m in other areas. Spondias dulcis has deciduous, pinnate leaves, 20–60 cm in length, composed of 9 to 25 glossy, elliptic or obovate-oblong leaflets 9–10 cm long, which are finely toothed toward the apex. The tree produces small, inconspicuous white flowers in terminal panicles. Its oval fruits, 6–9 cm long, are borne in bunches of 12 or more on a long stalk. Over several weeks, the fruit fall to the ground while still green and hard, then turn golden-yellow as they ripen.

Medical value of Ambarella

The leaves, nuts, bark and glue of the tree are used for various diseases. Ambarella, which we know as a fruit, is a plant with high medicinal value.

Raw mangoes have an astringent and sour taste. Sweet ripe mangoes have cooling properties. Therefore, these are used as medicines for different diseases.

Ambarella, rich in calcium and phosphorus, protects the health of bones and teeth in the body. It helps in maintaining proper functioning of the heart. As it is rich in vitamin A, it avoids eye problems. As it contains vitamin C, it helps the body's immunity. Prevents anemia. Removes unwanted fat from the body and prevents obesity. Controls cholesterol. Increases salivation and increases appetite. Strengthens the nerves of the body.

Eating ripe Ambarella can prevent vata dosha, indigestion caused by pitta dosha, rakta dosha and rash diseases. Also, it is good for people with weak physical strength.

Spondias dulcis is part of the catalog of ayurvedic medicinal plants of Sri Lanka.