Java plum

Eugenia jambolana

Traditionally attributed effects: astringent, stomachic, diuretic, lowers blood sugar; seeds for diabetes, bark for chronic diarrhoea, dysentery, heavy menstruation, spongy gums, stomatitis; diarrhoea in children.

Safety notes

Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Bark juice 56–112 ml; bark powder 0.5–1 g; seed powder 1–3 g; bark decoction as a mouthwash; fruit vinegar.

Use in traditions

Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Jambu. The purple fruits (jamun) stain the tongue purple and are a summer fruit in India. The powdered seed is used for diabetes in Ayurveda, Unani medicine and Indonesian jamu (duwet); studies give mixed results. According to the Puranas India is called Jambudvipa, 'jamun island'.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Ayurvedic materia medica

Attributed effects

Astringent, stomachic, diuretic, lowers blood sugar; seeds for diabetes, bark for chronic diarrhoea, dysentery, heavy menstruation, spongy gums, stomatitis; diarrhoea in children.

Preparation and amount

Bark juice 56–112 ml; bark powder 0.5–1 g; seed powder 1–3 g; bark decoction as a mouthwash; fruit vinegar.

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction Syrup, honey and oxymel Powder and kitchen

Sources

All herbs from Asia →