A plant record

Yellow mombin (monben)

Spondias mombin

EnglishYellow mombin

Kreyòlmonben

FrançaisMombin

BotanicalSpondias mombin

Yellow mombin (monben) — Spondias mombin, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Diarrhea, dysentery, fever, wounds, skin infections, stomach pain, inflammation

Prepared as

The leaves and bark of yellow mombin are typically prepared as a decoction by boiling 2-3 handfuls of fresh material in 4-6 cups of water at a rolling boil for 15-20 minutes, then reducing heat and simmering for another 10-15 minutes. The preparation is strained and consumed warm, with adults taking 1/2 to 1 cup three times daily for digestive issues, diarrhea, or as a general tonic. For external use treating wounds or skin conditions, the concentrated decoction is cooled to room temperature and applied as a wash or compress.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Dyare, vant k ap vide, lafyèv, maleng, enfeksyon nan po a, doulè vant, enflamasyon

Français — Diarrhée, dysenterie, fièvre, plaies, infections cutanées, maux d'estomac, inflammation

Safety

Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.

Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.

Kept alongside

LicoricePineapplePeacock flowerCalotropePapayaRingworm senna

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