Also known as masica, mojote, capomo, breadnut, ramón, and Maya nut, Brosimum alicastrum is a very large evergreen tree that grows to 130 feet tall. It has a large seed, often mistakenly called a nut, that is covered by a thin, orange, citrus-flavored skin. It was significant to the ancient Maya both for nutrition and for spiritual use. Today, it is milled into flour and used as a coffee substitute.
WHERE IT CAN BE FOUND:
Mexico, Caribbean, Central America, Amazon
PROPERTIES AND USE:
Stimulant, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, tonic, laxative, and is used for asthma, anemia, rheumatism, cough, colds, poor milk production, diabetes, tuberculosis, bronchitis, poor kidney function, lung infections
TRADITIONAL PREPARATION:
For all conditions, administer by the teaspoonful the latex from the leaves. One to 2 teaspoons per day is typical. For diabetes, cough, tuberculosis, and bronchitis, boil 1 small handful of the leaves and bark in 1 gallon water for 1 hour. Strain, and consume 1 cup per day. For asthma and anemia, take 1 teaspoon of ojushte tincture per day. For coughs and colds, boil 1 leaf, 1/2 cup water, and 1 teaspoon sugar until syrupy. Drink 1 teaspoon per day.
OJUSHTE TINCTURE Makes 2 cups
If you cannot find fresh ojushte root and bark, substitute 1 teaspoon dried. You will need a 16-ounce canning jar with lid for this recipe.
INGREDIENTS:
1 1/4 cups chopped ojushte root and bark 2 cups 100-proof vodka
INSTRUCTIONS:
• Pack a jar three-quarters full with ojushte root and bark.
• Pour in 100-proof vodka to fill the jar. Tightly screw on the lid, and place on a windowsill to steep for six weeks.
• After six weeks, store in a cool, dark area.
The tincture should keep for up to three years.
USE:
For a pick-me-up, asthma, and anemia, take 1 teaspoon per day.
