The purple mombin is native and common both wild and cultivated from southern Mexico through northern Peru and Brazil.
In Mexico, the fruits of the Purple Mombin are regarded as diuretic and antispasmodic. The fruit decoction is used to bathe wounds and heal sores in the mouth. A syrup prepared from the fruit is taken to overcome chronic diarrhea. The astringent bark decoction is a remedy for mange, ulcers, dysentery and for bloating caused by intestinal gas in infants.
The juice of the fresh leaves is a remedy for thrush. A decoction of the leaves and bark is employed as a febrifuge
The leaves exhibit antibacterial properties. The leaf juice is taken orally in the treatment of swollen glands and trauma. The crushed leaves are applied as a poultice to treat headaches. In large amounts the fruit is laxative and is used as a treatment for constipation. The plant is also used to treat dysentery and diarrhea, whilst parts of the plant are used in the preparation of a herbal remedy for sore throat.
Researchers at the University of Ife have found that an aqueous extract of the leaves has antibacterial action, and an lic extract is even more effective. The gum-resin of the tree is blended with pineapple or soursop juice for treating jaundice. Most of the other uses indicate that the fruits, leaves and bark are fairly rich in tannin.
Morton, J. 1987. Purple mombin, p. 242-245. In Julia F. Morton (ed.). Fruits of Warm Climates. Creative Resource Systems, Inc. Miami, Florida, Estados Unidos de America. https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/purple_mombin.html
Health Benefits (2020, April 29). Jocote (Spanish Plum) facts and health benefits. Health Benefits | Health Benefits of Foods and Drinks. https://www.healthbenefitstimes.com/jocote/
Plants for a Future. (2000). Spondias purpurea Purple Mombin Red Mombin, Spanish Plum, Ciruela PFAF Plant Database. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Spondias+purpure