Uses and Benefits of the Jamaican Almond Tree

The Jamaican Almond Tree grows wildly across the Island and in several other tropical countries. The tree thrives in just about any and every soil condition ranging from sandy to claylike. As there is an increasing awareness about the medicinal value of plants, it is important to highlight the features of the almond tree because, like many others, its properties are valuable in the treatment of mild infections and diseases, including respiratory illnesses.

The Almond tree produces the almond fruit and within the fruit there is a kernel, however, the kernel found on the inside of the fruit is distinctively different from the more popular commercial grade of almond that most persons are accustomed to. The kernel of the tropical almond is small and oblong with pointy edges and quite soft.

Photo of an Almond Tree

Benefits and Uses of the Almond Tree

The Almond Tree is quite versatile in its uses and all parts of the tree, including the leaves, fruit and bark have their place in Jamaican traditional medicine and folklore.

Video demonstrating how to Make Almond Milk

The Fruit

The almond fruit can be eaten at various stages once it begins to mature. It can be had while the colour of the fruit is a light-green, yellow green and eventually when ripened. the Almond fruit is loaded with nutrients as it contains vitamin C, Vitamin A, Calcium, Magnesium and traces of potassium along with other vitamins and minerals which makes it very beneficial for hair, skin and eye health. 

The Bark of the Tree

In Jamaica, it is popular folklore that when a baby has asthma, the baby can be measured on the tree. This requires someone with a steady hand as a machete is used to chop the tree just above the child's head. It is believed that this cures the  asthmatic conditions.

The leaves

The leaves of the Almond tree are found to possess anti-bacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. As such, Jamaicans use the leaves in several ways.

5 Uses of Almond Leaves

1. The leaves are used to make a tea to relieve respiratory illnesses.
2. The leaves are used in the production of oils to treat mild conditions of the scalp and skin.
3. The leaves are used in cooking; and in some instances as a plate.
4. Almond leaves are used to lower the PH of water and also as a means of purification.
5. The leaves are used as a cleanse as it is believed that it can cleanse the liver.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is for the purpose of sharing and preserving Jamaican folklore and traditional medicine and should therefore not to be used as advise in the treatment for any medical illness. Remember to consult your general practitioner.