Java Plum

(Jambul)
Sanskrit: जम्बू • Botanical: Eugenia jambolana Lam.

Jambu (Java Plum/Jamun) is a large evergreen tree found throughout India. The fruit is purple-black when ripe with astringent-sweet taste. It is one of the most important fruits for diabetics in Ayurveda. The seed powder is extensively used in Prameha (diabetes) as it reduces blood sugar. The fruit stains the tongue purple. The bark is astringent and used in diarrhea, dysentery and menorrhagia. The vinegar from fruit is carminative. The seeds contain Jamboline, a glucoside with anti-diabetic action. The tree is large, providing excellent shade. The ripe fruit is eaten fresh. The bark decoction is used as a mouthwash. Various preparations of Jamun seed (Jamun Beej Churna) are popular anti-diabetic remedies. Dose: Fruit as food; seed powder 1-2 masha; bark decoction 1-2 tola. Verses: 20.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Astringent (Kashaya), Sweet (Madhura), Sour (Amla)
Quality (Guna)
Heavy (Guru), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Jamboline (glucoside), Ellagic acid, Gallic acid, Tannins, Anthocyanins
Also Known As
English: Jambul, Java Plum, Indian Blackberry
Sanskrit: जम्बू, महाफला, सुरभिपत्र, फलेन्द्रा, राजफल
Hindi: जामुन

What is Java Plum (Jambu / जम्बू)?

Jambu (Java Plum/Jamun) is a large evergreen tree found throughout India. The fruit is purple-black when ripe with astringent-sweet taste. It is one of the most important fruits for diabetics in Ayurveda. The seed powder is extensively used in Prameha (diabetes) as it reduces blood sugar. The fruit stains the tongue purple. The bark is astringent and used in diarrhea, dysentery and menorrhagia. The vinegar from fruit is carminative. The seeds contain Jamboline, a glucoside with anti-diabetic action. The tree is large, providing excellent shade. The ripe fruit is eaten fresh. The bark decoction is used as a mouthwash. Various preparations of Jamun seed (Jamun Beej Churna) are popular anti-diabetic remedies. Dose: Fruit as food; seed powder 1-2 masha; bark decoction 1-2 tola. Verses: 20.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 6

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Grahi (absorbent)
  • Pramehaghna (anti-diabetic)
  • Raktapittahara (alleviates bleeding)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 6

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.