The latex, leaves, roots and bark of the breadfruit are used medically in the Pacific Islands. To treat broken bones and sprains, the latex is massaged into the skin and is bandaged onto the spine to relieve sciatica.
Latex is also commonly used to treat skin ailments and fungus diseases such as "thrush", which is also treated with crushed leaves. Diarrhea, stomachaches and dysentery are treated by internally taking the diluted latex. The latex and sap from crushed stems of the leaves are used traditionally to treat sore eyes and ear infections. The root is used as an astringent and as a purgative, while the macerated root is used to treat skin ailments. Throughout many islands in the Pacific the bark is used to treat headaches.
The yellowing leaf is brewed into tea and taken to reduce high blood pressure in the West Indies. It is thought that the tea also controls diabetes. Recent research has been conducted on the effectiveness of use in treating tumors and leukemia.
Latex is also commonly used to treat skin ailments and fungus diseases such as "thrush", which is also treated with crushed leaves. Diarrhea, stomachaches and dysentery are treated by internally taking the diluted latex. The latex and sap from crushed stems of the leaves are used traditionally to treat sore eyes and ear infections. The root is used as an astringent and as a purgative, while the macerated root is used to treat skin ailments. Throughout many islands in the Pacific the bark is used to treat headaches.
The yellowing leaf is brewed into tea and taken to reduce high blood pressure in the West Indies. It is thought that the tea also controls diabetes. Recent research has been conducted on the effectiveness of use in treating tumors and leukemia.