The “manna” extracted from the ash trees still cultivated in Sicily from mythical food to pharmaceutical and nutraceutical resource

“Manna” is the product obtained from solidification of elaborate sap that comes out incisions made during summer season on stem and main branches some species genus Fraxinus (Oleaceae). The cultivation manna ash trees dates back to ancient times in Sicily elsewhere – known as sacred trees, a symbol abundance therefore auspicious was increasingly widespread until middle last century. Subsequently, however, crop underwent progressive decline, remaining relegated restricted areas Sicily, particular Madonie district (Palermo, Italy). In this brief review, essential characteristics which it extracted are summarized. aspects current productivity Sicilian territory implications potential recovery increase an craft, tree cultivation, also reported perspective sustainable development green economy for Mediterranean area beyond. Finally, authors remember what has been done ensure conservation not only active but all relative agro-biodiversity. living germplasm cultivars recovered Sicily) represents one most qualifying results.