# Paho Mango

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/paho-mango
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-15
**Evidence Score:** 4 / 10
**Category:** Fruit
**Also Known As:** Mangifera altissima, Pahutan, Paho

## Overview

Paho Mango (Mangifera altissima) delivers antioxidant support primarily through its vitamin C content, which helps neutralize free radicals and reduce [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). Its significant dietary fiber content also promotes gut motility and regularity, aiding overall [digestive health](/ingredients/condition/gut-health).

## Health Benefits

- Exhibits [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) due to vitamin C, supporting immune health and reducing oxidative stress.
- Promotes [digestive health](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) through dietary fiber, aiding in gut motility and bowel regularity.
- Supports bone strength through essential minerals like calcium.
- Contributes to healthy blood formation and oxygen transport via iron content.
- May offer [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) effects, traditionally used in preparations to help prevent infections.

## Mechanism of Action

The antioxidant activity of Paho Mango is largely attributed to vitamin C, which acts as a [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)er, protecting cells from oxidative damage. While specific phytochemical profiling for Mangifera altissima is less extensive than other mango species, it likely contains polyphenols that contribute to its antioxidant capacity by modulating cellular signaling pathways. Dietary fiber promotes gut health by increasing stool bulk and facilitating bowel regularity, contributing to a healthy [gut microbiome](/ingredients/condition/gut-health).

## Clinical Summary

Formal, randomized controlled clinical trials specifically investigating the therapeutic effects of Paho Mango (Mangifera altissima) are limited in published scientific literature. Evidence for its health benefits primarily stems from ethnobotanical sources and traditional knowledge documenting its long-standing role in indigenous diets and medicinal practices. These traditional accounts highlight its perceived benefits in [immune support](/ingredients/condition/immune-support), [digestive health](/ingredients/condition/gut-health), and as a nutritional food source, though rigorous clinical validation is currently lacking for specific health claims.

## Nutritional Profile

- Vitamin C: Enhances [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) and supports skin and connective tissue health.
- Dietary fiber: Improves [digestion](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) and promotes regularity.
- Calcium: Supports skeletal health.
- Iron: Aids oxygen transport in the blood.

## Dosage & Preparation

- Traditionally consumed both ripe and unripe; unripe paho is eaten with rock salt, added to salads, or pickled, while ripe fruits are enjoyed fresh or used in marmalade.
- Modern culinary uses include tart condiments, tropical salads, and as a substitute for olives in savory dishes.
- Dosage: Incorporate into meals regularly for flavor and nutritional support.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

As a commonly consumed fruit, Paho Mango is generally considered safe. However, individuals sensitive to other plants in the Anacardiaceae family (e.g., poison ivy, cashew, pistachio) may experience allergic reactions due to similar urushiol-like compounds found in mango skin and sap. There is currently no specific scientific data detailing drug interactions or contraindications for Paho Mango. For pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, consumption as a food is generally safe, but supplementation or concentrated extracts would require further research regarding safety.

## Scientific Research

Ethnobotanical sources document Paho Mango's longstanding role in Philippine and Southeast Asian diets. Its nutritional and functional benefits, particularly in immune, digestive, and [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) contributions, are supported by traditional knowledge.

## Historical & Cultural Context

A wild mango of the tropics, Paho Mango carries the vibrant soul of Philippine cuisine, traditionally wild-harvested and culturally revered. It has been used for centuries in Southeast Asian diets for its versatility and nutritional value.

## Synergistic Combinations

Role: Polyphenol/[antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) base
Intention: Gut & [Microbiome](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) | Immune & [Inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)
Primary Pairings: - Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
- Camu Camu (Myrciaria dubia)
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
- Maca Root (Lepidium meyenii)

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is Paho Mango?

Paho Mango, scientifically known as Mangifera altissima, is a species of mango native to the Philippines and other regions of Southeast Asia. It is cherished in these areas for its distinctive flavor and nutritional value, playing a significant role in traditional diets and local economies.

### What are the primary health benefits of Paho Mango?

Paho Mango offers several health benefits, including potent antioxidant activity primarily due to its vitamin C content, which supports immune function and combats oxidative stress. Its dietary fiber promotes healthy digestion and regular bowel movements, and it also contributes to bone health through essential minerals like calcium.

### How does Paho Mango support the immune system?

Paho Mango supports the immune system mainly through its rich content of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin C is crucial for various immune cell functions and helps protect the body against damage from free radicals, thereby enhancing the body's natural defenses and reducing susceptibility to infections.

### Are there scientific studies confirming Paho Mango's health benefits?

While Paho Mango has a long history of traditional use and ethnobotanical documentation, extensive peer-reviewed clinical studies specifically on Mangifera altissima are limited. Its nutritional and functional benefits are primarily supported by traditional knowledge and general nutritional science applicable to fruits rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

### Is Paho Mango safe for everyone to consume?

Paho Mango is generally safe for consumption as a fruit. However, individuals with known allergies to other mango varieties or members of the Anacardiaceae family (like cashews, pistachios, or poison ivy) should exercise caution due to potential cross-reactivity. No specific contraindications or significant side effects have been widely reported for its general consumption.

### Can Paho Mango supplements interact with blood thinning medications?

Paho Mango contains vitamin K, which plays a role in blood clotting and may potentially interact with anticoagulant medications like warfarin. If you are taking blood thinners, consult with your healthcare provider before adding Paho Mango supplements to your regimen to ensure safe concurrent use. Maintaining consistent vitamin K intake from food sources is generally considered safe with these medications when monitored.

### How does Paho Mango compare to other mango varieties in terms of nutrient content?

Paho Mango is valued for its concentrated antioxidant profile, particularly its vitamin C and polyphenol content, which may be higher than some common mango varieties. Unlike standard mangoes, supplement-grade Paho Mango products are often standardized to ensure consistent nutrient levels across batches. This standardization makes Paho Mango more reliable for supplementation purposes compared to fresh mango fruit, which varies seasonally in potency.

### What is the best form of Paho Mango supplement—powder, extract, or whole fruit?

Paho Mango extract forms typically offer superior bioavailability because the nutrients are concentrated and processed to enhance absorption compared to whole fruit powder. Standardized extracts ensure you receive a consistent dose of active compounds like polyphenols and vitamin C with each serving. Whole fruit powders provide additional fiber benefits but may have lower bioavailability of certain micronutrients due to the food matrix.

## References

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mangifera_altissima; https://www.stuartxchange.org/Paho.html; https://www.fondazioneslowfood.com/en/ark-of-taste-slow-food/pajo/

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