Family: Rhizophoraceae

Genus: Rhizophora

Species: mangle

Common name: red mangrove, mangrove

General Description and Location: The Red mangrove is a tree incredibly important to tropical and subtropical coastlines. It naturally stabilizes coastal mudflats and helps reduce erosion. In addition, it is a feeding and breeding ground for fish, juvenile fish, shellfish, birds and coastal wildlife. There are a number of mangrove species, but the Red mangrove is the most common and widespread.

Red mangrove is found on the water-ward side of mangrove swamps, protecting the ecosystem from heavy waves and erosion. As a result, Red mangrove is one of the most ecologically important woody plants on the planet. These small trees are pummeled by tides daily, but their vine-like roots absorb air through pores, and are thus well-suited for their home.

Uses: These salt-tolerant shrubs and trees are also used in a variety of medicinal treatments. Red mangrove is a traditional tribal remedy for angina, asthma, boils, diarrhea, dysentery, eye ailments, fever, hemorrhage, inflammation, jaundice, leprosy, sores, sore throat, and wounds. In addition, Red mangrove is a tree used in production of charcoal.

These swamps are productive natural communities, providing vital sources of energy for wildlife. The vegetation is low and dense, a forest of small trees emerging in saltwater, tideland flats along tropical and subtropical coastlines. Mangrove forest ecosystems have been seriously affected by the hurricanes which have devastated the Florida Everglades in this century.

The world's tropical and sub-tropical coastlines are dominated by these swamps, being distributed much like coral reefs. With changes wrought by global warming, these swamps and the important ecosystem support they provide are in peril.

Disclaimer: The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Any reference to medicinal use is not intended to treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease.