History
Courbaril (Hymenea locust) is native of tropical America, it spread later in the Caribbean, Central and South America. It is now common in dry and semi-moist forests of the Lesser Antilles forests and semi-humid Lesser Antilles.
The courbaril is known primarily for its therapeutic properties and anti-asthmatic pectoral, sedative and healing.
Varieties
The number of varieties is unknown. The tree has a dark red wood, very hard. It has large brown pods harsh, and rounded at the ends. It contains 1-8 seeds. These behind a mealy pulp, yellowish, sweet and musky flavor and smell.
Some elements are a cure against cough and asthma. It is used to relieve rheumatic and muscle pain.
Health benefits
For a long time, the Indian tribes of the Amazon have used it for medicinal purposes. It was recommended by the Brazilian Doctor J.Monteiro Silva who recommended him against diarrhea, dysentery, asthenia, intestinal gas, hematuria and hemoptysis.
Secretions of coubaril called copal gum are used as medicine, but also as esteemed varnishes by Amazonian and neo-colonial societies.
Uses
The fresh pulp is eaten raw when the forest walks. In Brazil, it is converted into a powder and part of the composition of various formulations (energy drinks, etc ...).
Its redwood is used in cabinetmaking.
