Mahlep is a tree that grows up to 10 meters tall and has white flowers. It is common in European and Eastern Mediterranean countries. In Turkey, it is cultivated in Tokat, Zile, Niksar, Amasya, Çorum, and Mardin. It is also known as Idris tree, endirez, endürüz, keniro (Diyarbakır), fragrant cherry tree, melem, and wild cherry. To obtain mahlep seeds, ripe fruits are stripped, dried in the sun; passed through rollers to crack the pit, and then sifted to separate the kernel from the seed shell. It is one of Turkey's export products.
Uses of Mahlep
- It is used as a diuretic, stomachic, and tonic.
- Due to its fragrance, it is an appetite and mind stimulant.
- When eaten mixed with honey, it is energizing; used to enhance the sense of smell and for energy supplementation in the elderly.
- Eating it mixed with molasses and sesame seeds is weight-gaining.
- In the Tokat region, its marmalade is made. It is used for asthma, bronchitis, kidney stones; as an aphrodisiac, liver strengthener, and against prostate enlargement.
- It is used with sesame seeds on Kandil simits (Turkish bagels).
- Among the public, it is also used for diabetes.
- The kernels are crushed and used as a spice.
- It is added especially to cakes, pastries, and dry pastries; approximately one tablespoon is used per kilogram of flour.
- It is used in the liqueur industry. The tree, branches, and bark are fragrant due to the coumarin they contain. It is also used in the perfume industry, and its oil is used in the paint industry.
