Cashew is mainly known as a nut but is also used for other medicinal purposes. The cashew nut grows on an evergreen tree that also has fruit that is very valuable. The roots, gum, nuts, leaves, and even bark can be used for different concerns. The cashew nut is mainly used as part of a healthy diet. What most people do not know is that the lining of the nut is toxic and is removed before packaging and eating. The nut is high in both protein and healthy fat. In herbal medicine the leaves are used for both gum and tooth issues. The bark and the roots are purgative and detoxifying. The gum of the cashew tree is mainly used for external skin conditions such as corns or fungal infections. If you are using cashew for digestive issues such as ulcers, it is best to get the nut or fruit. It should be noted that the oil from the shell of the nut is very irritating and should not be used in any form. The vapor from the oil should not be used either since it is just as irritating.