Botanical Overview
Syzygium cumini, commonly known as Black plum, Jamun, Java plum, or Jambul, belongs to the Myrtaceae family. This tropical tree is native to South and Southeast Asia and its key medicinal parts include seed, leaf, fruit, and bark.
Energetics
The plant exhibits a cooling temperature and drying moisture energetics, possessing astringent, bitter, and sweet tastes. It is generally tonifying and primarily acts on the blood system.
Primary Actions
- Antidiabetic
- Astringent
- Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
Indications
Western
- Hyperglycemia
- Diabetes mellitus
- Diarrhea
- Inflammation
- Urinary tract infections
Syndromes
- Type 2 diabetes
- Infectious diarrhea
- Oxidative stress conditions
TCM
- Thirst
- Polyuria
- Diarrhea
Syndromes
- Xiao Ke syndrome (wasting-thirst disorder)
Ayurveda
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Loose stools
Syndromes
- Madhumeha (diabetes mellitus)
- Atisara (diarrhea)
Unani
- Polyuria
- Thirst
- Diarrhea
Syndromes
- Zahab al-shakar (diabetes)
Constituents & Mechanisms
The plant contains phytochemicals such as anthocyanins, ellagic acid, flavonoids, gallic acid, jamunose, kaempferol, myricetin, and tannins, supporting its antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial activities.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of bark: 10–15 g daily
- Seed powder: 3–6 g daily in divided doses
- Leaf juice: 5–10 mL twice daily
- Fruit: As fresh fruit or juice
Safety & Contraindications
Syzygium cumini is generally safe in traditional oral doses. Caution is advised during pregnancy due to limited safety data. It may potentiate hypoglycemic effects when taken with antidiabetic medications, requiring blood sugar monitoring.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers are established for Syzygium cumini.
Selected References
- Phytochemical and pharmacological properties of Syzygium cumini: A review
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 2
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part 1, Volume 1