Jamun, the highly nutritious, refreshing and succulent fruit flooding the summer markets has innumerable health benefits. Commonly known as Java plum or Indian blackberry in English, Jamun or Jambul in Hindi, Jambufalam or Mahaphala in Sanskrit, Naavar Pazham in Tamil and Neredu in Telugu, it goes by the botanical name Syzygium cumini.

Jamun, the tall tree with a heavy trunk is native to the Indian sub-continent but is also widely found in various Asian countries. The tree bears fruits which are oblong in shape – that are green when raw but turn pink or purple as they ripen.

This juicy fruit holds a great significance in holistic treatments like Ayurvedic, Unani and Chinese medicine as it attenuates Kapha and Pitta.

 Jamun has several medicinal and health benefits. It is one of the best home remedies for stomach pain, diabetes and arthritis. The fruit also cures digestive issues like dysentery and flatulence. Here is a list of some more health benefits of jamun.

1. Improves hemoglobin count

Loaded with vitamin C and iron, jamun increases hemoglobin. With the increased number of hemoglobin, your blood will carry more oxygen to the organs and keep you healthy. The iron present in the fruit also purifies your blood. 

2. Jamun has astringent property

Jamun has astringent property, which keeps your skin acne free. You should consume jamun if you have oily skin as it will help you keep your skin fresh and clear. 

3. Improves health of skin and eyes

Jamun or the black plum improves the number of hemoglobin and the iron present in the fruit acts as a blood purifying agent. This helps in improving the health of your skin and eyes. The fruit is also rich in several minerals and vitamin C and A.

4. Keeps your heart healthy

Jamun

Loaded with potassium, jamun is extremely beneficial for your heart. Around 55 mg of potassium is present per 100 grams of jamun. The fruit is beneficial in keeping diseases like high blood pressure, heart diseases and stroke at bay. It also keeps your arteries healthy and prevents its hardening. 

5. Strengthens your gums and teeth

Jamun is beneficial for your gums and teeth. The leaves of the black plum have antibacterial properties and can be used to prevent bleeding of gums. You can dry the leave and then powder it to be used as a tooth powder. This will help in preventing gum bleeding and infection. The bark of the tree has astringent properties and you can use a decoction prepared with the bark to rinse your mouth to treat mouth ulcers.

6. Prevents infection

Jamun has antibacterial, anti-infective and anti-malaria properties. The fruit also contains malic acid, tannins, gallic acid, oxalic acid and betulic acid. The fruit is effective preventing common infections.  

7. Treats diabetes

Black plums can cure the symptoms of diabetes including excess urination and thirst. It has low glycemic index, which keeps the blood sugar levels normal. Seeds, bark and leaves of the tree can be used for the treatment of diabetes.

These health benefits make the fruit more special. Make sure you eat jamun during its season and enjoy all these benefits.