Malanga is a plant native to South America. It grows naturally in the Amazon rainforest. Its leaves are used for cooking or chewing. The bark is used as a seasoning for food and medicine. Malanga has been known to have many health benefits such as: anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antioxidant, diuretic, digestive aid, laxative and much more!
The leaves of malanga contain high amounts of chlorogenic acid which helps reduce inflammation. Chlorogenic acid is a powerful detoxifier and may help prevent cancer, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis and other diseases.
It contains high levels of vitamin C which helps protect against free radicals. Vitamin C plays an important role in maintaining healthy skin and hair. It also reduces swelling from colds and flu.
Malanga’s roots contain high levels of potassium, magnesium and manganese which contribute to normal nerve function. These minerals help maintain blood pressure and regulate body temperature. They also assist with digestion.
Malanga contains trace elements such as zinc, copper, iron and calcium which play important roles in bone growth and maintenance. Malanga is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2 and C which promote immune system activity. It also provides essential fatty acids necessary for brain development.
Malanga has antiseptic qualities and can be used on cuts, wounds and burns. It also helps to clean the digestive system. In addition, it can prevent or treat heart disease as well as high blood pressure.
The leaves, bark and roots are all used for medicinal purposes.
Some people use malanga to prevent sunburn and promote healthy skin. It is also believed to prevent baldness and speed up wound healing.
Malanga can be found at specialty grocery stores or markets that sell Caribbean produce. It can be eaten raw or cooked with stews, soups and sauces.
The leaves are used for wraps in place of tortillas or bread in sandwiches and burgers.
Malanga is also great for replacing potatoes or rice in dishes like fries, mashed potatoes and pulao.
You can make sweet breads, cakes and pancakes using malanga in place of regular flour.
Sources & references used in this article:
Low-energy biphasic waveform defibrillation: evidence-based review applied to emergency cardiovascular care guidelines: a statement for healthcare professionals … by …, P Kudenchuk, L Becker, G Nichol, B Malanga… – Circulation, 1998 – Am Heart Assoc
Patient-centered research priorities for pulmonary nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infection. An NTM Research Consortium Workshop Report by …, P Leitman, A Leitman, E Malanga… – Annals of the …, 2016 – atsjournals.org
Pharmacotherapy for non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis: results from an NTM Info & Research patient survey and the Bronchiectasis and NTM Research Registry by …, MR Knowles, A Leitman, P Leitman, E Malanga… – Chest, 2017 – Elsevier