ABSTRACT
This chapter provides information on uses, folk medicine, chemistry, germplasm, distribution, ecology, cultivation, harvesting, yields, energy, and biotic factors of Artocarpus Altilis (Parkins) Fosb (Moraceae)- Breadfruit, Breadnut, Pana. Cultivated extensively for its fruits and seeds, breadfruit is used as a staple food with Polynesians, Micronesians, and Melanesians. Fruits and leaves used as a cataplasm for tumors in Brazil. West Indians have great faith in the leaf decoction for high blood pressure. Colombians cook the fruit with sugar for colic. Virgin Islanders take the plant for coronary ailments, Jamaicans dress liver spots with the latex, Costa Ricans apply it to wounds. Breadfruit is cultivated throughout the islands of the South Seas. It has been introduced into many tropical areas of the world, including India, West Indies, Mauritius, and southern Florida. Trees start bearing in 5 to 6 years, when vegetatively propagated, 8 to 10 years from seed.
