The tree of parota, also known as huanacaxtle, nacaxtle, guacanastle o Enterolobium cyclocarpum, is an imposing species from the American tropics, notable for both its ornamental value and its use in a variety of settings. Its majestic silhouette, accompanied by a dense, impenetrable canopy, gives it an unmistakable presence in natural landscapes or urban settings.
Throughout history, this tree has been used by different cultures for medicinal purposes. medicinal, food, ecological and timberFrom the Mayan peoples to today's farmers, the parota has accompanied local development, serving as shade, medicine, food, and an economic resource.
What is the origin of the parota tree?
The parota is native to tropical America, growing naturally in countries such as Mexico, Venezuela, Brazil, Cuba, Trinidad, Guyana and Jamaica. In Mexico, it is mainly distributed in coastal regions, from Sinaloa to Chiapas by the Pacific and from Tamaulipas to the Yucatan Peninsula by the Gulf.
This tree thrives in low-altitude areas, generally below 800 meters above sea level, on soils sandy or clayey close to rivers and streams. It is best suited to warm regions with abundant sunlight and humid climates.
Morphological characteristics of the parota
Enterolobium cyclocarpum It is a large tree that can reach between 20 and 45 meters high and have a trunk that exceeds the 3 meters in diameterIts leafy canopy is wider than it is tall and provides dense shade. The leaves are compound, bipinnate, bright green, and numerous.
The trunk has a bark grayish when young y granular or fissured in adulthoodThe sapwood, grainy and pinkish, secretes a sticky substance. The flowers are hermaphroditic, small, and appear in greenish heads. Its very characteristic fruit has a circular, coiled shape, similar to an ear, which gives it its popular name in Nahuatl: quauh nacastl (ear tree).
The pods can measure between 7 and 15 cm in diameter and they contain between 10 and 20 seeds Large, oval, flat, and sweet. These seeds have a very hard shell, which requires special treatment to germinate.
Nutritional value and food uses
The seeds of the parota tree have a high in protein, vitamins and mineralsAccording to data from CONABIO, they contain 17 amino acids and can be nutritionally compared to wheat flour or fish. Their protein content ranges from 32% and 41%, which makes them ideal as a food supplement.
They also provide minerals such as iron, phosphorus and calcium, essential for bodily functions. In addition, a single serving can contain up to 234 mg of vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and protects against infections. The nutritional uses of seeds are very varied, and their inclusion in the diet has become increasingly common.
These seeds are mainly consumed toasts, can be ground to make a coffee substitute and are used in the preparation of sauces, soups and saladsIn its immature state, the fruit has properties astringentes and is traditionally used to relieve Diarrhea.
Medicinal properties of the parota tree
Since pre-Hispanic times, the parota has been a valuable medicinal resource. Parts such as the bark, fruit and resin (known as caro gum) have been used to combat various bodily ailments. Traditional uses include Treatment of colds, bronchitis, diarrhea, slow digestion, and hemorrhoids.
In addition, the plant contains phytochemical compounds with antibacterial properties. Studies have identified betulinic acid, machaerinic acid, and veracruzole in different parts of the tree, as well as saponins and alkaloids that function as natural antiseptics.
La infusion of bark or pods helps treat skin problems such as rash or hives. It has also been used as a purifier, stimulating the elimination of toxins. The root is used in natural medicine as blood purifier.
Parota wood and its uses
One of the best-known aspects of the tree is its strong and durable wood, highly valued in carpentry and cabinetmaking. Its reddish-brown color with dark veins gives it a unique aesthetic, ideal for furniture, flooring, doors, countertops, ornaments, and boats.
Thanks to its resistance to water and insects, it is also used in rural construction, agricultural tools and toysIt is a sustainable option compared to other tropical woods, since grows rapidly and adapts well to managed crops.
Stands out for its lightness and ease of work, making it ideal for both craftsmen and industrial manufacturers. However, care must be taken with the dust generated when working with it, as it can cause allergic effects in some people.
Care and conditions for its cultivation
The parota tree reproduces by seeds, which germinate naturally between 3 and 4 weeks after sowing; however, due to its hard shell, it may be required pregermination treatment such as scarification or prolonged soaking.
Grows best in soils rich in organic matter, with good drainage, and requires full exposure to the sun. During the first months, a constant watering, especially during times of drought. Applying organic fertilizers can improve their development.
The parota reaches its adult size in approximately 10 yearsGiven its large size, it is important to plant it in large spaces where it does not compete with other species or interfere with urban structures.
Ecological impact and conservation
The leafy canopy of the parota tree generates microclimates of shade and humidity, favoring other plant and animal species. It attracts a wide variety of birds, insects and pollinators, contributing to the biodiversity of the ecosystems in which it is found.
Its powerful roots help to fix the floor, preventing erosion, especially in riparian areas. In addition, by associating with mycorrhizae and rhizobia, improves soil fertility by Fixation of nitrogen.
However, overexploitation of its wood and fruits has reduced its wild populations in some regions. Therefore, it is essential to promote its sustainable cultivation, reforestation and environmental education to ensure its long-term conservation.
The parota tree combines majesty, functionality and ecological richness. From its nutritional properties y medicinal to its use in carpentry, represents an extremely valuable resource. Its culture y protección They not only guarantee human benefits, but also ensure the biodiversity and stability of the tropical ecosystems where they live.
