Mahlab

• English:  mahleb, mahlebi, mahlep, mahlepi, mach lepi, mahaleb, St. Lucie cherry
• Spanish:  mahaleb, cerezo
• Portuguese:  abrunheiro-bravo
• French:  mahaleb, cerisier de Sainte-Lucie
• Italian:  mahaleb, ciliegio di Santa Lucia
• German:  steinweichsel, felsenkirsche
• Dutch:  weichsel
• Czech:  visen turecka
• Hungarian:  török meggy
• Greek:  mahlepi, agriokerasia
• Danish:  vejselkirsebær
• Norwegian:  veiksel
• Swedish:  vejksel
• Finnish:  turkinpippuri
• Polish:  wisnia wonna
• Turkish:  mahlep, idrisagaci
• Hebrew:  mahlab, machleb
• Arabic:  mahlab, mahleb
• Persian/ Farsi:  mahlab, mahleb
• Russian:  vishnya makhalebka
• Japanese:  maharibu

The USDA has not released nutrition facts for mahlab.

Here is a breakdown of mahlab's primary chemical composition, highlighting each compound’s culinary and medicinal properties:

Aroma & Flavor Compounds

• Coumarin (and other coumarins like herniarin and umbelliferone)
  • Culinary:  The primary aroma compound in mahlab, coumarin is responsible for its characteristic sweet, cherry-like aroma with hints of almond and vanilla.
  • Medicinal:  Anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant potential, but coumarin can be toxic in high doses. The amount found in typical culinary use of mahlab is considered safe for most people, but excessive consumption, especially in concentrated forms like extracts, should be avoided.
• Benzaldehyde
  • Culinary:  Adds a subtle, bittersweet, almond-like note. 
  • Medicinal:  Potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Dihydrocoumarin
  • Culinary:  Adds a sweet, vanilla-like note.
  • Medicinal:  Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential.
• Other Aromatic Compounds
  • Terpenes, esters, and aldehydes also contribute to mahlab's complex flavor. 

Other Phytochemicals

• Amygdalin
  • Culinary:  Breaks down into benzaldehyde via enzymatic processes catalyzed by grinding the kernels, so amygdalin is indirectly responsible for mahlab's almond notes. 
  • Medicinal:  Controversial due to potential toxicity in large amounts, but it is also studied for its anticancer potential.
• Prunasin
  • Culinary:  Contributes slightly to the overall flavor profile.
  • Medicinal:  Similar to amygdalin, it has both health potential and concerns.
• Phenolic Compounds
  • Culinary:  Play a minor role in flavor, but contribute to the color of mahlab.
  • Medicinal:   Potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Antimicrobial potential. 

Other Compounds 

• Omega-6 & 9 Fatty Acids (linoleic, oleic acid)
  • Culinary:  Contribute to the overall texture and mouthfeel of mahlab.
  • Medicinal:  These are essential fatty acids with various health benefits, including cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory effects.

Notes

• Since the macronutrients (fats, carbohydrates, proteins) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) are listed in the nutrition facts above, this section focuses on the compounds most responsible for a spice or herb's unique culinary and medicinal properties.
• Keep in mind that chemical composition can vary, mainly in proportion and concentration, but it is possible for certain compounds to be entirely absent. In fact, these variations are the reason for differences in quality. This is why spices are typically graded by measuring the levels of key compounds that directly contribute to aroma, flavor, and color.
• Composition variation (and hence, quality) is affected by plant part, variety/ cultivar, age/ freshness/ ripeness, region, terroir, environmental stressors, potential adulteration, and the techniques deployed throughout the following processes: cultivation, harvesting, processing (drying, curing), shipping, storage, and preparation (grinding, grating, infusing, roasting). A magnificent spice is thus a celebration of a complex journey, shaped by natural forces and human ingenuity.

Mahlab has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years throughout the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. As modern research continues to uncover its age-old secrets, it's becoming clear that this ancient spice has much more to offer than its delightful flavor. Here is an overview of some of the most promising areas of mahlab’s medicinal potential:

• Digestive Health
  • Mahlab has historically been used to ease gastrointestinal discomfort and improve overall gut health. Research indicates that mahlab may have carminative qualities, and it may even help synthesize digestive enzymes. 
• Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory
  • Some of mahlab's chemical compounds are potent antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Antimicrobial Action
  • Mahlab essential oil has shown promising antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria and fungi, suggesting potential applications for mahlab in combating infections, preserving food, and developing natural sanitizers.
• Heart Health
  • Mahlab may help lower cholesterol levels and improve blood lipid profiles, which would decrease the risk of heart disease.
• Pain Relief
  • In traditional medicine, mahlab is revered as a pain reliever. Research is currently exploring these analgesic effects, particularly its ability to reduce pain-causing inflammation. 
• Respiratory Health
  • Research showing that mahlab's compounds may help loosen mucus and soothe the respiratory tract seems to support the traditional use of mahlab for respiratory conditions. 
• Bone Health
  • Some compounds in mahlab may help increase bone density.
• Cancer Prevention
  • While still early stage, some studies suggest that certain compounds in mahlab have anticancer properties.

Important Considerations

• Presence of Coumarin with Potentially Negative Health Effects:  While mahlab is considered safe for consumption with normal culinary use, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using it for medicinal purposes, especially in high doses or for extended periods, due to the presence of the compound coumarin. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also exercise caution due to limited safety data.
• Most Research is Preliminary:  While research is promising, more extensive human clinical trials are needed to definitively confirm the efficacy and safety of mahlab's medicinal properties. 
• Dosage Matters:  Researchers commonly use concentrated extracts, so keep in mind that standard dietary consumption may not yield the same results. More studies are required to establish proper dosages and administration methods.
• Medication Interaction:  Mahlab should not be considered a replacement for conventional medical treatments, and while it is generally safe for most people, it is critical to exercise moderation and consider potential interactions with other medications. 
• Disclaimer:  Consult healthcare professionals before using spices and herbs for medicinal purposes. 

Mahlab's unique qualities are valued beyond the kitchen. Here are some of its popular alternative use cases:

• Cultural Significance
  • Religious Offerings:  In Turkey and Armenia, mahlab is sometimes given as an offering in religious ceremonies. 
  • Wedding and Holiday Traditions:  Representing joy and prosperity, mahlab is a traditional ingredient in celebratory desserts, pastries, and baked goods in many cultures: Greece, Turkey, Armenia, Syria, Lebanon, and Egypt. This sounds culinary, we know, but the symbolism and cultural significance needs to be stressed. 
• Aromatherapy & Fragrances
  • The soothing floral, almond-like aroma of mahlab essential oil is sometimes used in aromatherapy, perfumes, and other fragrances. 
• Skincare
  • Mahlab oil is sometimes used in skincare products for its potential to moisturize and soften skin. Its anti-inflammatory action may also help soothe skin irritations. 
• Wood Polish
  • Oil extracted from mahlab seeds has traditionally been used as a natural wood polish, adding shine and protection. 
• Dye
  • Mahlab seeds can be used to create a natural yellow dye for textiles and other materials.
• Food Preservative
  • Mahlab's antimicrobial action gives it potential as a natural food preservative to extend shelf life and prevent spoilage.

Disclaimer:  While mahlab shows promise in these areas, it's important to manage expectations. Its effectiveness may be limited compared to commercial alternatives.

Mahlab is difficult to match due to its unique bittersweet flavor and exquisite aroma, but if you're in need of a replacement, here are some options to think about:

• Almond Extract
  • The most common and accessible substitute for mahlab, almond extract captures the nutty essence of mahlab but lacks its floral and cherry notes. Use ¼ tsp of almond extract for every tsp of ground mahlab. 
• Cardamom
  • Cardamom shares some warm, aromatic qualities with mahlab, but with a more floral and citrusy flavor. It is stronger, so use a smaller amount of cardamom and adjust as you go. For a closer approximation, combine ground cardamom with almond extract. 
• Fennel Seeds
  • While not a perfect match, fennel seeds offer a similar warmth and sweetness, with a hint of anise. Use less fennel seeds and experiment with toasting them to alter their flavor.
• Rose Water
  • Rose water can help replicate the floral notes of mahlab, although it lacks the spice's nutty and bittersweet qualities. Use it sparingly, only a few drops at a time, to avoid overpowering the dish.
• Cinnamon
  • Cinnamon can provide a similar warmth to mahlab, but it lacks the floral and nutty notes. Use it in combination with almond extract or cardamom, or both, for a closer approximation.
• Nutmeg
  • Nutmeg has a warm, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor that can complement some dishes where mahlab is used, but it won't replicate mahlab’s unique flavor profile. 

Notes

• Incomplete Substitution:  All spices and herbs are too complex to match exactly, so it's crucial to consider the specific characteristics you aim to replicate, such as certain aspects of its flavor, aroma, texture, or color.
• Quantity Adjustment:  Start with a small amount of the substitute and adjust to taste, as it won't be a perfect 1:1 exchange for the original's flavor or potency.
• Context:  Consider the dish you're making and how the substitute's entire flavor profile will merge with other ingredients. Each alternative brings its own properties that will influence the final dish differently. 
• Experimentation:  Playing with substitutions is a great opportunity to explore how tastes and aromas interact. If you approach it with an open mind, you may really enjoy the process of fusing new flavors, and make some amazing discoveries along the way.

Mahlab’s history is deeply intertwined with the Mediterranean and Middle East. While its exact origin remains a mystery, we have some pointers from archaeological findings. Remnants of mahlab were discovered in ancient settlements in the Eastern Mediterranean, specifically modern-day Turkey and Syria. At one Bronze Age site in Arslantepe, Turkey, archaeologists found mahlab seeds dating back to around 3500 BCE. Therefore, mahlab was likely already being used and potentially even cultivated in this region in antiquity. 

To the ancients, mahlab was cherished for its unique flavor and aroma, a blend of floral, nutty, and cherry notes. Historical records such as cookbooks and trade documents mention early use of mahlab in various dishes, from breads and pastries to savory stews and rice pilafs. The spice was also leveraged in traditional medicine, its  digestive and respiratory benefits described in De Materia Medica, an encyclopedia of herbal medicine written by the Greek physician and botanist Dioscorides in the 1st century AD. 

As mahlab’s renown grew throughout the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, it became vital to many regional cuisines. It flavored sweets and savory pastries in Turkey and became essential to the joyful Easter cakes of Greece and Armenia. Mahlab also became a popular complement to coffee and tea due to its mild sweetness and delicate aroma. While we don’t fully understand the details of how it was cultivated and distributed throughout this time, mahlab's widespread use from ancient through medieval times demonstrates a well-established trade network that connected the Mediterranean with the greater area of Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia.

Today, mahlab continues to be cherished in its home countries, but it’s also experiencing a surge in popularity in the West due to rising interest in Middle Eastern and fusion cuisine. Mahlab is one of the most expensive spices in the world due to constrained supply, but as producers see the value this spice is offering to the marketplace, and its growing demand, we’re likely to see more effort and acreage dedicated to the growth of the ancient St. Lucie cherry tree.