Art of Jamaica

It's mango season in Jamaica! That means mangoes galore of all types, sweetness, textures and sizes. Mango season normally ends in July so Jamaica enjoys a few months of this delicious fruit. Mangoes are eaten raw, juiced, made into jam, used in smoothies, ice cream, cakes and more. The green/turned mangoes are sometimes cut up and "seasoned' with pepper and salt then left to marinate for a few minutes. Jamaicans call this treat pepper pot (this is also the name of a soup). It is said that mangoes are native to South Asia and was introduced to Jamaica in the 1700s. Some of the types were later introduced by Indian Immigrants. Mangoes grow all over the island with Clarendon, St. Mary, St. Elizabeth and St. Thomas producing the most. It was announced in April 2019 that Jamaica will export its mangoes to the USA under the Mango Irradiation Programme, with its first shipment happening in May 2019. Each mango is unique in its aroma, taste and texture. Some are big enoug...

It is not strange to hear a Jamaican recommending a particular herb when you are not well. Some Jamaicans believe that "bush" can cure any and everything. Being Jamaicans ourselves, we have personally experienced the positive impact of natural medicine. For example, we drink ginger tea whenever we have an upset stomach or the flu. This is just one of the many herbs found in Jamaica that has amazing benefits. Here are 3 that you should know about: 1. Guinea Hen Weed The scientific name for it is Petiveria alliacea and it is a  genus of flowering plants in the pigeonberry family, Petiveriaceae. It is known to be used by the Mayans for its medicinal benefits.  It is also called guinea hen leaf, garlic weed or gully root and is known as anamu in other countries. It is said to be rich in antioxidants, have  anti-carcinogenic properties , boost the immune system, lower blood sugar, relieves pain, assist with digestive and skin disorders and so much more. It g...