Manna from heaven, a classic expression meaning sudden fortune; the providence that comes from the celestial world and that solves a problem that seemed insurmountable. The name manna derives from "Mân Hu" and means 'what it is', i.e. the expression of amazement of the Jews in seeing an unknown food rain down from heaven, sent to them by God. According to the ancient biblical sources, manna is that gift unexpected with which the Almighty manifests himself; thus the fidelity of the people to the word of the Lord that they love and protect is confirmed.
The manna
In Italy it is extracted from the ash tree present only in Sicily, in the area of Madonie, in particular between Castelbuono and Pollina. It is the product that is obtained from the solidification of the elaborate sap that comes out, during the summer season, from the incisions made on the trunk and on the main branches of some species of ash. This species of sap which is obtained from the ash tree is used as well sweetener, given its pleasant taste similar to licorice; Diabetics can also take it because it does not alter blood sugar levels. It is an important ingredient for various recipes: in fact, creams are prepared with the manna, cookies, ice cream, puddings and more.
A precious sap
In the Madonie was born the Consortium Manna Madonita, created by a group of experienced professionals in the sector. The cooperatives of producers who take care of the ash trees from which the precious sap is extracted converge in the consortium. It contains mannite, water, trace elements, organic acids, glucose, fructose and mucilage. It is also very suitable for treating constipation in children and the elderly. And, again, it is used as an expectorant and emollient, to calm coughs and treat chronic bronchitis. Being formed by resins and nitrogenous compounds, it is also ideal for skin care.
( On the cover tree of manna - Wikimedia Commons)
