Come June and the market is flooded with small shiny oval black fruits attracting our attention. Tradition has it that one should take at least one jamun fruit in a season to clear the digestive system and keep the human machine running.
Jamun or Indian blackberry no doubt, is a wonder tree. Every part of the jamun tree, also called the black plum, has one or more medicinal uses, right from its fruit to its seed and bark to the leaves.
Traditional Indian medicines like Ayurveda and Unani prescribe jamun for different health problems including diabetes, dental issues, digestive disorders, liver trouble and skin ailments. While the fruit is rich in antioxidants (that prevent cancer) like tannic and oxalic acids, the bark contains diuretic (promotes urine) and digestive properties. The seed is prescribed for diabetes. Jamun as a whole is a good blood purifier in the traditional systems of medicine.
Jamun fruit can also be consumed with a pinch of salt to beat its astringent or slightly bitter taste. But those suffering from hypertension should avoid adding salt to the fruit. While the fruit is available during June-August, jamun bark and leaves can be utilised all through the year. One may also add fruit jams containing jamun fruit to their daily routine.
Quick remedies
w Diabetics may consume the jamun fruit in limited quantity to keep the blood sugar under control. Take seeds of jamun, dry and grind to a powder. Strain and consume a small quantity and consume it with water.
Repeat everyday to regulate blood sugar levels.
Jamun is a good general tonic to keep the body healthy. The fruit also has a cooling effect when the day is hot and sultry.
Jamun juice is good for the body. Take some jamun fruit, wash and remove the pulp. Blend the pulp, add honey and consume. You may also take it without honey.
For relief from nagging wounds, take a few fresh jamun leaves, make a paste of them and apply on the affected portion of the skin.
The leaves of jamun are natural antibiotic, so they help in the healing of injuries fast. Jamun seed powder will also help in clearing skin blemishes left by acne and blackheads.
Practitioners of traditional system of medicine recommend the powder prepared from the jamun seeds mixed with a small piece of jaggery for relief from diarrhoea and dysentery.
Those suffering from bleeding gums and unhealthy teeth may use the ash from the burnt jamun leaves to brush the teeth twice a day.