Plants in the Tropical Rainforest;
There are thousands of little rare species around the world in plants and animals. Some plants being used for different needs than others.
Lipstick Tree
This plant is often called the Lipstick Tree but it is also called the Annatto Tree. Apparently this plant is found in the Amazon and is often used in medicine. Oil from the plant contains carotenoids (plant pigments), one of which, Bixin, protects against UV rays. For centeries this plant is known for lowering blood preasure, misquito repellent and even love potions. The Colombians use this plant to treat snake bites. In year 2000 they proved this use in mice. In South America this plant is used for Heart Burn still today. This plant also has other needs such as this plant is used in food also. Yum Yum. Obviously this plant has very many needs. The tree has become invasive in high conservation value vegetation in areas including Hawaii and the Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos Island is where Charles Darwin developed his Theory of Evolution studying his different species on the island. Article by Mary Matthews.
Cocoa tree (Theobroma cacao)
The cocoa tree produces more than 150 chemicals in its leaves, seeds, fruit, and bark. The Olmecs, Mayans, and Aztecs used parts from the tree to treat anxiety, fever, fatigue, and coughs. Five hundred years ago the plant was brought to Europe, where it was used to treat kidney stones and cuts and burns, among other things. Recent research shows that chocolate contains polyphenols, which prevent heart disease. This tree is also known for a pretty little thing called choclate. Americans and humans love chocolate. This tree is delicious, and saves lives. The Cocoa Tree is located in the Amazon Rainforest. Luckily, this tree still stands large and tall for all this time. Shade-grown cocoa trees can produce fruit for 75 to 100 years or more. Cocoa trees require constant warmth and rainfall to thrive. Most likely you probably can't grow one in your backyard, unless you get 80 inches of rain per year and live in a warm climate with high humidity.
