Jamun fruit, also known as black plum , Nerale Hannu in Kannada, Java plum or Indian blackberry, is a dark purple fruit that belongs to the Myrtaceae family. It is native to India, Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia, but is also cultivated in other tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Jamun fruit has a sweet and sour taste and a juicy pulp that stains the tongue purple. Jamun fruit has many health benefits and is used in traditional medicine for various ailments. Here are some facts about jamun fruit's season, health benefits, side effects, consumption and cost.
Season
Jamun fruit is a summer fruit that grows from June to August in India. The peak season for jamun fruit is July when the fruits are ripe and juicy. Jamun fruit can be eaten fresh or processed into juice, vinegar, jam, jelly, wine or syrup.
Health Benefits
Jamun fruit is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, iron, calcium, potassium, phosphorus and flavonoids. It also contains other nutrients such as sodium, thiamine, riboflavin, carotene, fibre, niacin, folic acid, protein and fat. Some of the health benefits of jamun fruit are:
- Jamun fruit helps in increasing the haemoglobin count and preventing anaemia due to its high iron content. It also improves blood circulation and oxygen supply to the tissues.
- Jamun fruit helps in managing diabetes by reducing blood sugar levels and increasing insulin secretion. It also prevents diabetic complications such as neuropathy and retinopathy due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Jamun fruit helps in improving digestion and preventing diarrhoea, dysentery, ulcer and appendicitis due to its antibacterial and astringent properties. It also relieves gas, bloating and stomach pain due to its carminative property.
- Jamun fruit helps in boosting immunity and fighting infections due to its vitamin C and flavonoid content. It also protects against free radical damage and oxidative stress due to its antioxidant property.
- Jamun fruit helps in enhancing skin health and beauty by preventing acne, rashes, inflammation and ageing signs due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing properties. It also promotes wound healing and skin regeneration due to its healing property.
- Jamun fruit helps in maintaining oral hygiene and preventing tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath due to its antibacterial and astringent properties. It also strengthens the teeth and gums due to its calcium content.
- Jamun fruit helps in improving liver function and detoxifying the body by removing toxins and waste products from the blood. It also prevents liver damage due to its hepatoprotective property.
- Jamun fruit helps in reducing cholesterol levels and preventing cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, atherosclerosis and stroke due to its hypolipidemic and anti-atherosclerotic properties. It also improves heart function and blood pressure regulation due to its potassium content.
- Jamun fruit helps in preventing cancer by inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer cells due to its anticancer property. It also induces apoptosis or programmed cell death of cancer cells due to its cytotoxic property.
Side Effects
Jamun fruit is generally safe and well-tolerated by most people when consumed in moderation. However, some people may experience some side effects such as:
- Allergic reactions such as itching, swelling, rash or difficulty breathing due to hypersensitivity to jamun fruit or its components. People who are allergic to other fruits or plants of the Myrtaceae family should avoid jamun fruit.
- Constipation or dryness of mouth due to excessive consumption of jamun fruit or its seed powder due to its absorbent property. People who have constipation or dryness of mouth should limit their intake of jamun fruit or drink enough water along with it.
- Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar levels due to excessive consumption of jamun fruit or its seed powder by diabetic patients who are taking anti-diabetic drugs. People who have diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels regularly while consuming jamun fruit or consult their doctor before using it.
- Drug interactions with certain medications such as anticoagulants (blood thinners), antiplatelets (blood clot preventers), antihypertensives (blood pressure reducers) or statins (cholesterol reducers) due to the potential effect of jamun fruit on blood clotting, blood pressure or cholesterol levels. People who are taking these medications should consult their doctor before consuming jamun fruit or avoid it altogether.
Consumption
Jamun fruit can be consumed in various forms such as fresh fruit, juice, vinegar, jam, jelly, wine or syrup. The recommended dosage of jamun fruit depends on the form, purpose and health condition of the individual. However, some general guidelines are:
- Fresh fruit: 3-4 fruits or 100-150 grams per day
- Juice: 3-4 teaspoons or 15-20 ml per day
- Vinegar: 1-2 teaspoons or 5-10 ml per day
- Jam, jelly, wine or syrup: 1-2 tablespoons or 15-30 ml per day
- Seed powder: 1/4-1/2 teaspoon or 1-2 grams per day
Jamun fruit can be consumed at any time of the day, but preferably before meals to enhance digestion and metabolism. Jamun fruit should be consumed in moderation and not in excess to avoid side effects. Jamun fruit should be consumed fresh and ripe and not unripe or overripe to get the best benefits.
Cost in Bengaluru
Jamun fruit is a seasonal fruit that is available from June to August in India. The cost of jamun fruit varies depending on the season, quality, quantity and location. However, some average prices of jamun fruit in Bengaluru are:
- Fresh fruit: Rs. 40-60 per kg
- Juice: Rs. 80-120 per litre
- Vinegar: Rs. 100-150 per litre
- Jam, jelly, wine or syrup: Rs. 150-200 per kg
- Seed powder: Rs. 200-300 per kg
Jamun fruit is a nutritious and delicious fruit that has many health benefits and uses. It is a summer fruit that can be enjoyed in various forms and recipes. Jamun fruit is also a natural remedy for many ailments and diseases. However, jamun fruit should be consumed with caution and care by people who have allergies, diabetes, constipation, dryness of mouth or are taking certain medications. Jamun fruit should also be consumed in moderation and not in excess to avoid side effects. Jamun fruit is a seasonal and affordable fruit that can be easily found in Bengaluru during the summer months.
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