why do mango make you cry

·2 min read

The Short AnswerMangoes don't directly make you cry like an onion. The 'tears' are usually a result of sap exposure. This sap contains urushiol, a compound found in poison ivy, which can cause skin irritation and a burning sensation, leading to watery eyes.

The Deep Dive

The phenomenon of mangoes causing watery eyes isn't about emotional distress but a chemical reaction. Mangoes, like other members of the Anacardiaceae family (which includes poison ivy, poison oak, and cashews), produce a sap that contains urushiol. This compound is a potent skin irritant. When you cut into a mango, especially near the stem or the skin, this sap can be released. If this sap comes into contact with your skin, particularly around your eyes or face, it can trigger an allergic reaction. This reaction can manifest as redness, itching, and a burning sensation, which in turn stimulates tear production as your body tries to wash away the irritant. The concentration of urushiol varies between mango varieties and even within different parts of the same fruit, but it's most concentrated in the peel and near the stem.

Why It Matters

Understanding this reaction helps prevent discomfort. Many people experience mild irritation or assume they are allergic to mango flesh when it's actually the sap from the peel or stem. By being mindful of how you handle and cut mangoes, you can avoid this reaction. Washing your hands thoroughly after handling the fruit and avoiding contact with the sap around the eyes are key preventative measures. This knowledge is also crucial for individuals with known sensitivities to urushiol, ensuring they can enjoy mangoes safely or know to avoid them altogether.

Common Misconceptions

A common misconception is that mangoes themselves are inherently irritating to the eyes or that the flesh contains the irritant. In reality, it's primarily the sap, concentrated in the peel and near the stem, that causes the reaction. Another myth is that only certain mango varieties are problematic; while some may have higher urushiol concentrations, all mangoes from the Anacardiaceae family possess this compound to some degree. People often mistake this sap irritation for a true food allergy to the mango pulp, which is a separate and less common condition.

Fun Facts

  • Mangoes are related to poison ivy, poison oak, and cashews, all of which also contain urushiol.
  • The urushiol in mango sap can cause a rash similar to poison ivy, known as 'mango mouth' or 'prickly heat'.