Native to Madagascar, this evergreen and highly aromatic tree can reach 5 meters in height. In Malagasy, Mandravasarotra means "he who keeps evil away." It is the most widely used plant among the western populations of the island. In this Sakalava region, it is called motrobeatiagnana or motrobeatianina, meaning "great fire in the bowels" because its entire aerial part has a spicy, fiery flavor. However, depending on the Malagasy dialect, it is also called Fanalamangidy, "removing bitterness," Mangidymanitra, "smelling of bitterness," Sakarivohazo, "Gingerwood," or Sakaihazo, "Chiliwood." In winter, apply Mandravasarotra to your chest and the soles of your feet to strengthen your immune system.
