Health Benefits of Eating Jamun

Jamun is an excellent source of several bioactive compounds and since the development of ancient medicine, it has been used to treat numerous diseases and physiological conditions.

A valuable medicinal plant of the Myrtaceae family, jamun can be used for the treatment of metabolic syndrome-related symptoms globally. Here is the nutritional value of jamun fruit (for every 100 g serving):

Proteins: 0.7 – 0.13 g

Fats:0.15 – 0.3 g

Crude fibre: 0.30 – 0.9 g

Carbohydrate: 14 g

Calcium: 8.30 – 15 mg

Magnesium: 35 mg

Phosphorus: 15 – 16.20 mg

Iron: 1.20 – 1.62 mg

Sodium: 26.2 mg

Potassium: 55 mg

Copper: 0.23 mg

Sulphur: 13 mg

Vitamin A: 8 IU

Thiamine: 0.01 – 0.03 mg

Riboflavin: 0.009 – 0.01 mg

Niacin: 0.20 – 0.29 mg

Ascorbic acid: 5.70 – 18 mg

Folic acid: 3 mcg

Having explored the extensive scope of jamun nutrition, let us now take a look at the health benefits of jamun.

The nutrition sector has been increasing its focus on health-protective functional foods and analysing their role in supporting good health. Not only do they lower the cost of functional medicine, but have fewer side effects.

The jamun fruit plays an important part in Ayurvedic medicine as it is a rich source of antioxidants, calcium, and other essential nutrients. Let us take a look at jamun benefits on health:

Diabetes

In Ayurveda, of the many jamun benefits, its assistance in the management of diabetes is highly recognised. The delicious fruit helps convert carbohydrates into energy and regulates blood sugar levels.

As jamun has a low glycemic index, diabetic patients can enjoy it in the summer to alleviate symptoms such as excessive urination or pushing. Additionally, the extracts of the seeds, leaves, and bark are effective in the treatment of diabetes.

Cholesterol

India has a concerning statistic when it comes to heart health. According to a study, there is a 60% rise in cardiovascular diseases over 30 years in the country. To combat this alarming statistic, in addition to making lifestyle changes, individuals can include jamun in their diet.

The high amounts of potassium and antioxidants in the fruit keep your heart healthy and heart issues at bay. The dietary fibres and antioxidants help with regulating cholesterol levels and obstruct the formation of plaque whereas the potassium prevents ailments such as stroke, high blood pressure, and other heart problems.

Antioxidant

You need not make expensive cosmetic purchases for healthy and glowing skin if you regularly drink jamun juice. The fruit effectively detoxifies and purifies your blood to ensure your skin glows from the inside. Since it comprises a high amount of vitamin C, jamun also blesses you with blemish-free, radiant skin.

Improves Gut Health

The excellent carminative and digestive properties of jamun can heal all your digestive concerns. The presence of vitamins A and C in jamun detoxifies the body and provides relief from digestive disorders. The properties of this delicious fruit reduce gas formation, to suppress problems of flatulence, bloating, and constipation.

Moreover, because the fruit also boasts antacid properties, it prevents excess acid formation in the stomach, thereby treating ailments such as indigestion, gastritis, and ulcer problems, while simultaneously promoting the absorption of nutrients.

Increases Haemoglobin

Low level of haemoglobin is a common concern in India, particularly in women. However, jamun boasts an effective remedy for increasing your haemoglobin count. The high levels of vitamin C and iron present in the fruit can help boost haemoglobin count.

Moreover, the iron can help purify the blood. Additionally, during the menstrual cycle, women lose blood, and jamun is considered a highly beneficial fruit during these times. The presence of iron also makes it beneficial for patients suffering from jaundice and for those who are anaemic.

Improves Respiratory Health

The recent onslaught of the COVID-19 virus taught us the importance of healthy lungs. In this endeavour, the jamun fruit is considered highly beneficial. Jamun has been a traditional remedy for treating respiratory ailments.

The fruit boasts several antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties that help in treating ailments such as asthma, flu, and common cold. It eases breathing by loosening the catarrh build-up in the chest and nose. In addition to treating these concerns, jamun is also beneficial in healing asthmatic and bronchitis problems.

Promotes Weight Loss

Being overweight or obese invites several serious diseases and health conditions from hypertension and reduced quality of life to type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease.

Considering this, it is important to maintain a healthy weight with the help of an active lifestyle and nutritious, well-balanced food. Jamun is a high-fibre, low-calorie fruit which makes it an ideal inclusion in weight loss diets and recipes.

By reducing water retention in the body, jamun improves your digestion. In addition to this, jamun boosts your metabolism and keeps you full and satiated for longer. Gallic acid and ellagic acid present in jamun improve metabolic dysfunction and gradually assist with weight loss.

Strengthens Teeth and Gums

For individuals who have concerns with oral hygiene, eating the delicious jamun can be highly effective. It also helps in strengthening teeth and gums. Thanks to the presence of vitamin K and antibacterial properties in jamun, you can even prevent bleeding gums.

Nutrients such as vitamins A and C, calcium, folic acid, and phytosterols assist with the maintenance of healthy tissues inside one’s mouth. To strengthen your gums and teeth, you can dry the jamun leaves and grind them into a powder to be used as toothpowder.

The leaves also act as an astringent for healing throat problems. Furthermore, the antibacterial properties of jamun can protect your teeth from oral infections and bacteria.

Fights Infections

For time immemorial, the jamun fruit has been used to fight germs and secure the body against infections. In addition to eliminating germs and bacteria, the antifungal and antibacterial properties of jamun also treat and heal wounds.

If you are concerned with fatigue and weakness, then eating jamun every day can help you feel energised and refreshed, thanks to its bioactive properties. Moreover, as the fruit is loaded with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phenolic compounds, it can help strengthen immunity and increase the stamina of your body.

Now that we have learned about jamun nutrition and health benefits, let’s see what are some of the best uses of jamun so you can incorporate the fruit into your routine in diverse ways:

Stem/Bark: The stem and bark of jamun can be dried and ground to a fine powder. This powder can be consumed by mixing with water or as part of other herbal medication.

Seeds: The dried and powdered seeds of jamun can be consumed directly or incorporated into culinary experiments like smoothies or desserts.

Fruit Pulp: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants the jamun fruit pulp is extensively used in jams, jellies, and desserts for its uniquely sweet flavour.

Leaves: The dried and powdered jamun leaves can be used to prepare a delicious herbal tea or as a part of other herbal medication.

Kernels: Jamun kernels can be extracted from within the seeds and you can use its powder because it is high in bioactive compounds that may possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Just as it is with other fruits, jamun can also display contraindications in certain people. It is advised to immediately visit your doctor if you experience any allergic reaction, such as swollen gums, lips, eyelids, hives, or skin rash. Additionally, the following individuals must exercise caution while eating jamun:

• As jamun naturally lowers your blood sugar levels, you must refrain from eating the fruit after surgery.

• Pregnant and breast-feeding women must consult their gynaecologist before eating jamun.

• Since jamun tastes mildly sour, it should not be eaten on an empty stomach as it can cause acidity.

• Although minimal, jamun also contains sugar and overconsumption can elevate your blood sugar levels.

• Overeating jamun may also lead to fever, body aches, and throat problems.

• As jamun enhances the Vata dosha in the body, it can lead to flatulence and delayed digestion

• Individuals who have atherosclerosis or a history of the formation of blood clots should avoid eating jamun.

The sweet and tangy fruit with a vibrant purple colour - jamun is a nutrient-dense fruit that boasts numerous health benefits. However, while relishing the fruit in summer it is important to remember to eat in moderation to avoid any side effects of jamun.

While a healthy diet is necessary for good health, there are several health concerns that jamun and other fruits do not cover. For such issues, there is always comprehensive health insurance.

With comprehensive individual health insurance, you can get the best healthcare medical treatment without having to worry about the cost of treatment and hospitalisation. A medical insurance plan acts as your financial safety net so you don’t dent your savings in distressing times.