Impressive Natural Health Benefits Of Jamun fruit

Impressive Natural Health Benefits Of Jamun fruit

Jamun is an evergreen fruiting tree bearing the scientific name Syzygium cumini. It is more commonly known as a black plum, but may also be called jambul, java plum or jamblang, depending on where you are in the world. This tree is native to the Indian subcontinent but has spread to other Asian nations and islands, in addition to being  naturalized in the United States and some parts of South America. This tree is primarily cultivated for its fruit, which bears the same name and looks similar to a small plum or a large berry. The color changes from light green to pink to dark purple when it is fully mature.

The jamun fruit has a sweet and sour flavor and is known to be quite astringent, although this taste can vary depending on when you pick the fruit from. While it has been a part of cultural, religious, and culinary traditions in certain parts of the world for centuries, it is only recently becoming popular in the rest of the world.

Nutritional Value of Jamun

Jamun is a rich source of nutrition. 3-4 calories are present in a medium sized jambul. As the calorie content is low, this makes an ideal fruit snack for individuals that want to maintain weight or are on a weight loss diet. Loaded with vitamins and minerals, this fruit is an essential of several diet plans recommended by nutritionists and dieticians. Nutritional value of Jamun is given below.
Jamun nutritional value (Per 100 g) (Source USDA)

Vitamins
• Vitamin C- 18 mg
• Vitamin A- 3 IU
• Riboflavin (B2) – 0.012 mg
• Pyridoxine (B6) - 0.038 mg
• Niacin (B3) - 0.260 mg
• Thiamine (B1) - 0.006 mg
• Pantothenic Acid (B5) – 0.160 mg

Minerals
• Calcium- 19 mg
• Iron- 0.19 mg
• Potassium- 79 mg
• Phosphorous- 17 mg
• Carotene- 48 ug
• Sodium- 26.2 mg
• Magnesium- 15 mg
• Folic Acid- 3 mg

Nutrients
• Carbohydrates- 15.56 g
• Water- 83.13 g
• Fat- 0.23 g
• Energy- 60 kacl
• Protein- 0.72 g

15 Health Benefits of Jamun / Jambul

1. Jamun is known to be an effective treatment for diabetes. Extracts of bark, leaves and seeds are used in combination with herbs to reduce levels of glycosuria and blood sugar. Powder of dried seeds is consumed with honey over a course of 2 months for beneficial changes in sugar levels. Research indicates Jamun seeds which are rich in alkaloids have hypoglycemic properties effective in reducing high blood sugar. Jamun juice should be included in a diabetic’s nutritional diet.

2. Bark of Jamun tree has antihelmintic properties, which help in treating urinary disorders. A glass of Jambul juice with 1/2 teaspoon of bark powder daily is recommended for persons with urinary infections and urinary tract disorders.

3. Bark powder mixed with water is effective in curing tapeworm infection.

4. Consumption of Jamun minimizes the risk of cancer. This fruit has several bioactive phytochemicals that include polyphenols, which contain anthocyanin known to fight cancer cells. Individuals that undergo chemotherapy or radiation sessions benefit significantly from jamun juice consumption. Anthocyanins, flavonoids, ellagic acid and gallic acid present in jambul have the capacity to prevent carcinogenesis in organs.

5. Jamun juice is excellent for natural bowel movement.

6. Jamun has medicinal properties. Juice of this fruit is a natural astringent used as a mouthwash as it eliminates bad breath. Pulp of jambul is used as a treatment for gingivitis (bleeding gums). In some Asian cultures leaves of jamun tree are burnt to form an ash. This ash is rubbed on teeth to strengthen them.

7. Leaves and bark of jamun are used in combination with other ingredients by Ayurveda and Unani practitioners for various treatments such as diarrhea and indigestion. Traditional healers in Asia use seed, leaf and bark powder of Jambul tree is several herbal formulations.

8. Jamun seed powder and turmeric is mixed with jamun juice and applied on skin to get rid of blemishes and light scars.

9. Jamun juice with powder of its leaves is an excellent treatment for ulcerative colitis.

10. Regular consumption of jamun for 2 to 4 months helps individuals with problems of bleeding hemorrhoids significantly.

11. Jamun is known to enrich blood and also protect from liver damage. Many herbalists recommend juice of this fruit with herbs because it has antioxidants and flavonoids that play a huge role in purification of blood. Natural acids present in this fruit play a pivotal role in digestive enzyme secretion. Regular intake of jambul stimulates healthy liver function.

12. Decoction of jamun seeds that contains aromatic herbs is an excellent home remedy to relieve fatigue and strain.

13. Wine and vinegar made from jamun is used as a cure for sore throat, whooping cough, cuts, bruises, and open wounds.

14. Seed powder is used as a cure for digestive disorders, an excellent home remedy for bloating. Powder of seeds in jamun juice is excellent for individuals with a suppressed immune system.

15. Fruit pulp of jambul is used as a home remedy for asthma and chronic cough.