Plum

Plum is a kind of tree that comes in the Prunus family. Closely related to peaches and cherries, this tree grows up to a height of 5 to 6 meters in height. The fruits it bears are edible and small in size, generally 2 to 7 centimeters in diameter. It looks like a big berry and is juicy and firm when ripe.   Plum is one of the most loved summer fruits. It is rich in antioxidants and fiber. Plums show the property of anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial. Consumption of plum helps keep the blood vessels healthy and purify the blood and improve its circulation. It keeps the heart health up and is good for the digestive tract, joints, and skin. It also helps in managing cholesterol and blood pressure and weight. Overdosing on plum can have a few side effects and allergic reactions. This article provides all the information about the Ayurvedic uses of plum.    How Did The Word Plum Originate? The word plum is derived from the old English word "plume," which was used for the plum tree itself. The word "plume" was, in turn, derived from the Latin word "prunum," deriving from the Greek word “proumnon." The word "plum" was also used to indicate something desirable in the 18th century.    Historical Use of Plum in Ayurvedic Treatment It is said that plums were grown in China even 2,000 years ago. The written documentation of the fruit dates back to 497 BC.  Plum is mentioned in Chinese poetry that is at least 11th Century old. It was referred to as more than just a tree or a flower. By the 6th Dynasty, it was used as a gift or offering to friends and loved ones.   In Egypt, plums were kept in the tombs under the Pyramids for the afterlife of the dead. People have used plum paste to cure the wounds and marks left with it.  Today, we have plum moisturizers that help in rejuvenating the skin and restoring it to its glow.    Benefits of Using Plum in Ayurvedic Treatment Plum is widely a grown and used fruit. Many studies have been conducted on plum to show the beneficial effects of plum for the human body. These studies show the health-promoting properties of the fruit.     Being anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and having antioxidants is good for the digestive system, immunity, joint muscles, diabetes, skin problems, and even blood. It helps to manage the blood flow and thus also diabetes. Plum is also beneficial in cholesterol. It helps in managing weight as well.   Here is a detailed view of the same, along with scientific and Ayurvedic descriptions.    Treating Diseases and Health Problems with Plum   1. Plum for Indigestion  Science Ayurveda Plum is used for and is good for the process of digestion. The compound breakup that it contains has digestive properties. It helps in reducing the bloating and easy excretion. Indigestion is caused as a dueto an imbalance in Kapha Dosha. This results in a weak digestive fire. Plum helps in balancing the Kapha Dosha and helps with Agni or the digestive fire for a better digestive system. It also serves as a Deepan or appetizer because of the Pachan nature. Thus, plum is useful in curing indigestion.   2. Plum for Cholesterol Science Ayurveda Plum contains antioxidants that help in controlling the cholesterol level in the body by increasing the good cholesterol and reducing the bad cholesterol. When the Agni or the digestive fire reduces, problems of cholesterol starts to develop. Plum balances Agni and acts as a Deepan or appetizer because of its Pachan property. It removes Ama or toxins from the body. Plum regulated cholesterol and helps in improving the working of the digestive system.   3. Plum for Joint Pain Science Ayurveda Plum has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the swelling or inflammation in the joints, and in turn, it helps reduce the pain in the joint muscles. It cures the sour muscle problem and reduces stiffness.  Joint pain is caused due to aggravated Vata Dosha. Plum helps in balancing Vata by reducing it. This helps in reducing the pain and stiffness along with the swelling. Thus, plum helps in reducing joint pain.   4. Plum for Diabetes Science Ayurveda Plum has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the swelling or inflammation in the joints, and in turn, it helps reduce the pain in the joint muscles. It cures the sour muscle problem and reduces stiffness. Joint pain is caused due to aggravated Vata Dosha. Plum helps in balancing Vata by reducing it. This helps in reducing the pain and stiffness along with the swelling. Thus, plum helps in reducing joint pain.   5. Plum for Dry Skin Science Ayurveda Plum has an oily consistency. When you apply plum juice to your face and body, it helps in removing the dryness from the skin. Plum is Snigdha or oily in properties. This helps in reducing chapped or dry skin.   6. Plum for Wound Science Ayurveda Plum helps in curing the wounds and marks left with it. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing the swelling on the wounded part of the skin. The antioxidants help in removing the toxins from the wounded area and helps in clotting the blood. Plum has Roopan or healing properties that increase the effectiveness of the blood clot and thus help in quick healing of wounds.   Forms of Plum and Recommended Dosage Plum is available as the whole fruit, as powder, tablets, and capsules. They have different dosages and different recommended times to take.    1. Plum Fruit - You can have 2 to 3 fresh and firm plum. - Take it once or twice a day.    2. Plum Churna - You can have plum churna along with some honey or warm water. - Take not more than ¼ or ½ teaspoon of the churna.   3. Plum Tablets - Take 1 or 2 tablets at a time. - Have it with warm water after light meals. - You can take it twice a day.   4. Plum capsules - Take one or two capsules twice a day. - Have it after light meals with warm water.    Types of Ayurvedic Care With Plum 1. Plum Churna - Take some fresh, firm plum, at least 3 to 4 pieces. - Wash them thoroughly and let them dry under the sun. - Once sundried, cut them into small pieces and put them in the grinder. - Grind the pieces to make a powder of it. - Take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of plum churna - Add honey to it and swallow it.  - Use it once a day after a meal. - This helps in curing indigestion.    2. Plum Chutney  - Add water to one cup of dried plum. - Add 1 teaspoon of cumin powder and red chili powder each. - Put in 1 tablespoon of vinegar and ½ cup of sugar. - Sprinkle some salt and mix it well.  - Have 1/2to 1 teaspoon of plum chutney with your meal.    3. Plum Paste - Take some plum powder and add rosewater to it. - You can apply the paste over the affected area or over the wounds, - Let it dry for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse it with water.  - This paste can also make a good facemask to provide moisture and restore elasticity.   Side Effects of Plum Plum is safe to be taken by mouth. However, overdosing on plum can cause some serious problems. Plum lets the stomach loose to cure the problem of indigestion and constipation. If you eat too much of the fruit, it can cause stomach upset and severe loose motions.   Some people might be allergic to plum. This can cause tongue swelling, throat swelling, and pain in the throat, nausea, vomiting, and itching. It is best to stay away from plum if you are allergic to a similar family's peaches and fruits. In case you face any problem, you must visit a doctor immediately and get a shot of injection or anti-allergic.   Precautionary Guide to Using Plum    1. Plum for Pregnant Woman There is not enough information on the consumption of plum while you are pregnant. You must avoid taking plum and not take risks. You can consult your gynecologist about the same.   2. Plum while Breastfeeding There is not enough evidence on the question of consuming plum while breastfeeding. It is in the best interest to avoid it or seek your gynecologist's advice before consuming plum while you are breastfeeding your baby.   Frequently Asked Questions   1. Can I eat the skin of the plum? - Yes, the skin of the plum is edible. It has a salty taste and goes well with the pulp of the fruit.    2. Can plum cause diarrhea? - Plum helps in curing indigestion by loosening up the stomach. If you overdose on plum, you can end up having severe stomach upset with loose motions and diarrhea.    3. Is plum good for patients who have arthritis? - Yes, plum is good for people with arthritis.  It has polyphenols that help in breaking down the bone tissue. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing the inflammation and swelling of the bone. By curing the Vata Dosha in the body, it helps in curing arthritis as well.    4. Is dehydrated plum good for health? - Dehydrated or sundried plum is good for your health. It is rich in dietary fiber and other vitamins and minerals. It helps in curing constipation and loosening up the stomach so that stools pass through easily.   5. Can I consume plum while on homeopathic medicines? - Yes, you can consume plum while on homeopathic medicines. It is a natural product and does not produce a side effect when consumed while taking medicines.   6. Can I take plum while on supplements? - Yes, you can consume plum while taking vitamin or dietary supplements. However, if you are taking more than 1 supplement, you must consult your physician before consuming plum.   7. Can I take plum while taking allopathic medicines? - There is not enough information on taking plum while on allopathic medicines or the same benefits or side effects. You can seek the advice of your doctor or physician before taking plum while taking allopathic medicines.   8. Can plum help you in weight loss? - Plum is rich in dietary fibers and helps in giving the necessary fullness. This results in not having untimely cravingsor sugar cravings. In turn, this can help you reduce the snack intake and thus also manage weight. Hence, plum promotes weight loss.   9. What is the recommended dosage of plum fruit in a day? - In a day, you might require not more than 80 grams of plum. This means that to the maximum, you can consume 4 to 5 plums a day. Excessive intake can cause severe and acute health problems.   10. Can I eat plum on an empty stomach? - Fruits work the best when taken on an empty stomach. You can eat plum at least half an hour before your breakfast. However, it is not recommended to take plum juice without feeding yourself something. It can cause acidity.   11. Is plum good for the skin? - Yes, plum is good for the skin. It has Roopan properties that help in healing the wounds and marks on the skin. Plum is oily in nature that helps in removing the dryness and dead skin. You can also use it to remove the dryness and dandruff from the hair. It reduces dark spots and pimple marks. Plum helps to regain the elasticity of the skin and keeps it moisturized.     12. How long can I keep stewed plum? - If you keep the stewed plum in the refrigerator, you can easily store it for about 2 weeks. However, if you keep it at room temperature, you must finish it within a day.

The Java plum or Jamun can have and can be called numerous names. But the name that I would like to call is "Grown Grapes." They resemble the grapes in a way. One of the reasons why people long for summer is for all kinds of summer fruits. Mango and Jamun are of best interest to everybody. Java plum has a combination of a sweet and sour taste. This gives a reason for the fruit to be unique. Java plum is such an awesome and effective fruit as it has multiple medicinal values. The consumption of Jamun can be done in different ways. Some like to have it in juice form, and some will like to eat it in the fruit form itself. People with diabetes would love to eat this fruit as it helps in controlling the sugar levels. The fruit also helps obese people in weight loss. Though it has a lot of positive qualities, it has a few negatives as well. A huge amount of consumption of Jamun is not advisable as it leads to constipation. Anything and everything has to be consumed to a limit. The Etymology of the Word “Jamun” The word Jamun originated in the early 19th century from the  Hindi word Jãmun for   Syzygium Jambolanum, commonly known as Black Plum. This comes from the Jamun tree.  Historical Uses of Jamun The leaves, seeds, and fruit of Jamun were used to treat diabetes, asthma, skin allergies, diarrhea, inflammation, ulcers, etc. The Jamun plant is enriched with anthocyanins, ellagic acid, isoquercetin, kaempferol, and myricetin. All these rich contents help to cure a lot of problems. The Jamun fruit was well known in folk medicine. The fruit is known to contain a high range of antioxidants. The tree, seed, and fruit of the plant were still known to be used in medical practice. This also helps one with weight loss. Many obese people try to include this fruit and its various forms in their diet schedule. This helps them by eliminating the excessive fat segregated in their body. Benefits of using Jamun in Ayurvedic Treatment The seeds, leaves, fruits, and the Jamun tree's bark has been used in ayurvedic treatment for a long time now. The rats have shown anti-inflammatory effects when tested with Jamun seeds. It has also been tested on humans, and the results have amazed everybody. It has lowered and maintained sugar levels in patients with diabetes. Every part of Jamun can be used as a medicine in ayurvedic treatment and scientific medicine. Treating Health Issues with Jamun Here we will know how every part of Jamun is used in treating diseases and health problems from Ayurvedic medicine and Scientific medicine. Asthma Science Ayurveda  Scientific experiments have proven and shown that Jamun can be used to manage Asthma.  Jamun aids in controlling the symptoms of Asthma and relieves people suffering from breathlessness.     Asthma is known as Swas Roga in Ayurveda. The primary doshas are Vata and Kapha. When these tend to mingle, it causes difficulty in breathing. Consumption of Jamun aids in balancing Kapha. Diarrhea Science Ayurveda Diarrhea and dysentery are frequently occurring health problems. This is made better with the help of Jamun. Due to the high presence of astringent and antibacterial properties, this has been and is still used to treat dysentery and diarrhea. Diarrhea or Atisar happens due to irregular food habits, toxic chemicals, too much stress, and this irks Vata. The kashaya or astringent property and grahi or absorbent property in the seed powder controls atisar. Bronchitis Science Ayurveda After many tests and experiments, it is shown that this can be used in managing airway inflammation. Bronchitis is known as Kasroga in Ayurveda. Bad digestive or weak digestive system is the cause of kasroga.  Increases the desire for sex Science Ayurveda There is no such explanation given for the increased sexual desire with Jamun's use in scientific view. Intake of Jamun seed powder or the fruit itself helps in curing the sexual dysfunction in males. This also strengthens people who eat Jamun or its seed powder. This is because of its Vajikarana or aphrodisiac property. Skin regeneration Science Ayurveda Again there is no explanation or view given by the scientific medicinal practitioners. It is believed that the Jamun pulp quickly heals the skin ulcers, and the inflammation is eventually reduced. It is because of Sita (cold) and Rogan (healing) property. Sore Throat and Cough Science Ayurveda The bark of the Jamun tree is considered to be sweet; hence it helps the sore throat by soothing it. The antiviral properties present in the Jamun seed guards from any respiratory problems. The reason for sore throat and cough is the imbalance of Kapha dosha. Due to the presence of Kapha dosha properties, it cures the sore throat and cough. Protection of Liver Science Ayurveda According to science, the antioxidant property present in Jamun seed powder helps in the protection of the liver as it fights against the damages caused by free radicals. It also reduces the inflammation in the liver due to the presence of the anti-inflammatory property.  According to Ayurveda, this protects the liver and problems such as indigestion or anorexia. Due to deepana (appetizer) and Pachana (digestion) property, it helps in digestion and strengthens the liver. Forms of Jamun in Ayurveda with Recommended Dosage In an ayurvedic treatment, Jamun has been used in so many different forms. Some of the forms in which the Jamun has been used are in the form of tablets, capsules, churna, and juice. If you have not consulted with a physician about the amount of dosage to be taken yet… then you may follow the dosage as mentioned below. Jamun Juice: It has to be taken in 3 - 4 teaspoons once a day. Jamun Powder: Churna (powder) should be taken ¼ - ½ teaspoon twice a day Jamun Capsule: For a day, take 1 - 2 capsules twice Jamun Tablet: 1-2 tablets twice per day In case you have already consulted with a doctor, then you need not follow the recommended dosage. You may stick to the prescribed dosage. Types of Ayurvedic Care with Jamun Jamun Seed Powder The powdered form of Jamun makes it easy to mix with any form. This can be added to water or honey. It is very easy to swallow, as well. Tips: For internal consumption, Take ¼  - ½ teaspoon of Jamun churna Mix it with water or honey Swallow it after lunch or dinner                 B. For external use, Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Jamun churna Add a little amount of honey Apply it to the area that is affected and leave it for 15- 20 mins Rinse it thoroughly with clear water For good relief, use it once a day or thrice a week Jamun Seed Capsules Just like Jamun seed powder, Jamun capsules also makes it easy for consumption. Jamun capsules can be taken with lukewarm water. Tips: Take 1- 2 capsules of Jamun and not more than that. Consume it with lukewarm water twice a day after lunch and dinner Jamun Fruit Consumption of Jamun in the form of fruit has a lot of benefits than drinking it with any other liquid. Fruits are best when consumed in fruit form as it’s very healthy and effective. Tips: Consume Jamun fruit after food as you like it Jamun Tablet Jamun tablet is also available in this form in order to prevent and cure medical health problems, as mentioned earlier. Consumption of tablets is also easy (if you like taking tablets, and you have no problem with it). Tips: Take about 1 - 2  of Jamun tablets. Consume it after food at lunch and dinner. Has to be consumed twice a day Jamun Juice The Jamun juice form is something that is likable by a lot of people who hate to take tablets or capsules. This looks cool and can be consumed just like water. The sour and sweet taste of Jamun juice makes it unique in taste when consumed. Tips: Take 3 to 4 freshly made Jamun juice. Mix it with a little amount of water Consume it after you take light food ( after breakfast is better) once a day The Jamun Juice can be used externally for skin blemishes as well by adding a little amount of honey and applying it to the affected area. Jamun Vinegar Jamun vinegar might be a little difficult to consume because of its acidic taste. Unlike Jamun juice, Jamun vinegar is not likable by everyone. Jamun Vinegar is used for internal consumption. Tips:  Take 2 - 3 teaspoons of Jamun Vinegar.  Add the same amount of water.  Consume it once or twice, not after but before taking food Side Effects of Jamun Although Jamun or the java plum has numerous good medicinal properties, it also has certain side effects that should be kept in mind and beware of. People who have diabetes or pregnant or people who have undergone surgery recently. As this may cause: Lower sugar levels Constipation Allergy                               Experts of Science and Ayurveda advise that it is better to consult a doctor before consuming a capsule or tablet form of Jamun. Precautionary Guide while using Jamun For Diabetic Patients View of science experts The science experts say that the consumption of Jamun results in reduced glucose levels. So, one needs to keep an eye on his/ her sugar levels. If consumed with an antidiabetic drug, then it is better that you constantly check on your glucose level. For digestive problem View of Ayurveda experts According to the Ayurveda experts, it is best if one checks with a physician before Jamun's consumption in any form if he/ she is suffering from digestive problems. For hypersensitive skin View of Ayurveda experts If you have hypersensitive skin, then the Jamun juice and Jamun seed powder has to be used mixed with honey or rose water and applied externally in the affected area. If not, this may cause allergies to your hypersensitive skin. It is also advisable that you consult before using any form of Jamun. For pregnant and breast-feeding women View of science expert There is no proper source to rely on to say if it's good or bad for pregnant women and women who breastfeed. So, you should be on the safer side and consult a doctor before consumption. FAQs Are there different forms available in Jamun? View of science experts That is a big fat, yes! Jamun has different and many names and different forms. These various forms of Jamun are used for various reasons. Each form of Jamun aids in each problem. The different forms of Jamun are Jamun Seed Powder, Jamun Fruit, Jamun juice, Jamun vinegar, Jamun capsules, Jamun tablets. So, these are the different forms available and used in ayurvedic and in scientific treatments. Does the value of Jamun differ based on its form? No, the value of Jamun does not differ. All parts of the Jamun tree have their own value and properties in the treatment of diseases and health problems. Every part of the Jamun tree is used in such a way that it suits the medical problem. So, all forms of Jamun are worthy and effective in their own way and in the best way. When can one consume Jamun? View of science expert Jamun is a beautiful summer fruit that can be consumed at any time of the day. It doesn't matter if it's day or night. Consuming Jamun is too healthy. This is healthy, especially for people having diabetes. They need to monitor their glucose levels from time to time. This is because Jamun's intake, along with antidiabetic drugs, may lower the glucose levels quickly. Is it true that Jamun helps in the purification of the blood? View of science experts Absolutely yes, Jamun aids in the purification of the blood. Due to the presence of Iron in Jamun, it increases the hemoglobin count. Jamuns or Java Plums are enriched with minerals, vitamins, anthocyanins, and flavonoids. Hence, all these together helps the skin of a person to be radiant. Can Jamun help with Weight Loss? View of science experts According to scientific experts, there is no proper evidence to rely on this information. The scientific experts do not know it if the Jamun helps in weight loss or not. View of Ayurveda experts The reason for the increase in weight is due to a weak and poor digestive system. This leads to the excessive accumulation of fatty acids in the body, causing to increase in weight. It is believed by the Ayurveda experts that Jamun aids in loss of weight. The consumption of Jamun corrects the digestive system and strengthens it. It eliminates the body's excessive fat content due to the presence of Deepana and Pachana properties that are appetizer and digestion properties. Hence people who wish to lose weight can consume this. Can pregnant ladies consume Jamun? View of science experts As mentioned earlier, there is no proper source, or there are not enough tests made to confirm this question. People are still not aware if it is good or bad for pregnant ladies. But it is best that the pregnant ladies consult their doctor and not consume anything sans proper consultation. It is always better to be safe. One cannot risk pregnant women.