Family: Sapotaceae

Scientific name: Manilkara nicholsonii

Authority: A.E.van Wyk

Zulu name: amasethole

Other name: Pondo milkberry

Plant description: M. nicholsonii is a medium-sized to large tree. It has elliptic dark green leaves that are glossy above and dull below, small solitary white flowers, berry-like fruits that turn orange when ripe, and branches and greyish furrow bark that bleeds a white latex when injured. The tree grows on rocky forest margins or streambanks of Pondoland.

The Zulu name amasethole is a portmanteau of the words amasi (sour milk) and ithole (calf), referencing the milk sap of the tree.

Uses:

The edible fruits are eaten as food.
The milky latex used to make chicle, a natural gum, that is traditionally used in making chewing gum.
The plant is used to treat poisoning from rotten meat.
The plant is used to treat stomach cramps.
The wood is used to make traditional sticks for fighting and personal protection.
The wood is used to make knobkerries, wooden clubs, and walking sticks.
The plant is used as ornamental.

Safety precaution:

Using traditional medicine responsibly can enhance your overall health and well-being. Misuse and abuse can lead to complications. You can inquire about the correct use of traditional medicine from a knowledgeable herbalist and practitioner. You can also visit imithiyesintu.co.za or email: info@imithiyesintu.co.za to learn more about traditional medicine

References and further reading:

Abbott, T., 2001. Rare and Threatened Plants of KwaZulu-Natal and Neighbouring Regions.
Kate and Grieve, G., 2021. Twist of fate. Veld & Flora, 107(1), pp.16-21.
Mucina, L., Mucina, L., Abbott, A. and Tichý, L., 2018. Classification of Pondoland scarp forests. Vegetation survey and classification of subtropical forests of southern Africa, pp.91-124.
Van Wyk, A.E. and Lötter, L.A., 1982. Manilkara nicholsonii (Sapotaceae), a new species from southern Natal. South African Journal of Botany, 1(1-2), pp.33-37.
Zukulu, S., Dold, T. and Abbott, T., 2012. Medicinal and charm plants of Pondoland. South African National Biodiversity Institute.