Jamun !


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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