Jamun or
Black Plum those tangy purple fruits are one of my favourite snacks especially
when sprinkled with some black salt .In
ancient times India was known as Jambudweep which meant a place where jamun
(jambu) grew in abundance. These little purple delights are a huge nutritional
source and used widely to treat a number of illnesses .It even finds mention in the Ramayana as supposedly this was the fruit that Lord Rama survived on during his 14 year exile from Ayodhya .Its
not just the fruit but even the leaves and the bark f this tree are equally
important. It balances Kapha and Pitta and increases vata. Below are some
of the common uses of Jamun;
1.100 gm of the fruit contains 55 mg of potassium, hence
regular consumption of this fruit lowers
hypertension and protects against other cardio vascular diseases.
2. The bark of the tree possess antihelmentic properties
which makes it very beneficial in treating Urinary tract infection.
3. Due to the fruit’s astringent properties it also makes
for a good mouthwash, because it eliminates bad breath. Jamun pulp is used
widely to cure gingivitis.
4 .It is rich in
iron and is a good blood purifying agent ,hence helpful in anaemia. Its styptic quality helps
cure menorrhagia & other menstrual disorders.
5 .Its greatest use however is in diabetes and this is an
important part of most ayurvedic anti
diabetic formulations .The presence of high amount of alkaloids in the seeds
renders it hypoglycemic properties that help reduce blood sugar. This may be
used independently or with other anti diabetic formulations.
6. To lighten acne
scars make a paste of Jamun seeds powder with cow milk and apply on
affected areas. Leave it for 15 mins and wash it off with cold water. However
to get faster results , its recommended to leave the paste overnight and wash
off in the morning.
7. The paste of Jamun leaves when applied to helps skin burns heal faster.
8. According to Ayurveda the fruit possess rochana quality hence used to treat Anorexia.
9. Used in various Ayurvedic formulations to cure
dysentery, worm infections due to its grahi
properties.
10. The presence of bioactive phytochemicals which
include polyphenols are known to fight cancer cells. Patients undergoing chemotherapy
claim significant benefit from
consumption of Jamun juice which may be due to the presence of Ellagic acid,
Anthocyanins, Flavanoids , Gallic acid etc. in the fruit.
11. Its low in
calories hence a good snack option
if you are watching your weight.140 gm of the fruit only contains 80 calories.
However refrain from indulging too much or it may cause flatulence.
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