What Indians know as Jamun is Kacmun to the rest of the world. It is a native fruit of India. It is of the size of plums with deep purple looking almost black and having a tangy and sweet taste. The shining fruit grows on plum-like tall trees that can grow up to thirty feet. Also known as black plum or Indian blackberry, small spherical fruit. These look like shining marbles at a glance when kept in heaps at the counters or fruit-seller’s stalls. The unusual color and the shining appearance of the berry-like fruit create a compelling attraction that urges people to taste it. However, the visual attraction that entices people to taste the fruit opens up a whole new world before them as they discover the tropical fruit’s extraordinary nutritional and health benefits.
Kacmun- various options for consumption
Kacmun, the seasonal fruit, also known as Java Plum, is available in the summer season in India during March, April, and May. The sweet-tasting fruit is a nutritional powerhouse with several health and medicinal benefits. Besides consuming the fruit in its original form, it is also in other forms such as juice, tablets, powder, and capsules, all of which preserve the medicinal qualities. Those who might not like the sweet, tangy taste of the fruit that leaves a thin violet coating on the tongue for some time can choose from the alternative options to ensure that they can avail of the health benefits. Moreover, the availability of the fruit in various other forms ensures that you can consume it throughout the year instead of depending on the limited availability during the summer only.
Packed with nutrition
Water, lipids (fat), protein, iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, and thiamin are Kacmun’s main constituents. It is comparable to the modern-day edible water pods. In addition, the marble-like fruit is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B-6, riboflavin, and other nutrients, including beneficial dietary fiber. Rich in antioxidants, the tropical fruit provides several health benefits, as revealed in studies that pointed to overall health improvement among people consuming the fruit.
Vitamin A – Jamun contains adequate vitamin A, which is essential for cell division, immune system function, and good vision. Adults need at least 15 micrograms of vitamin A daily from a cup of Jamun juice. The diverse function of vitamin A ensures overall good health.
Vitamin C – Jamun is a good vitamin C source, essential for strengthening the immune system. Adults should have a diet comprising 22% vitamin C. It translates into 18 micrograms daily, available from the fruit. Vitamin C enhances the immune system and helps the body fight diseases effectively. Regular consumption of vitamin C and other vitamins ensures a healthy life.
Food-based fiber – The Indian blackberry is an excellent dietary fiber essential for maintaining good gut health and digestive system. The fruit juice supplies 10% of the dietary fiber that adults need daily, equivalent to 3 grams. Dietary fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy intestinal tract and digestive system by facilitating the absorption of nutrients.
Over and above, potassium in Jamun helps control blood pressure. At the same time, ample doses of calcium and iron are beneficial for building healthy bones. These synthesize red blood cells properly.
Health benefits
Heart protection – A high quantity of antioxidants in Jamun bolsters the healing benefits by doing a lot of good for the heart. Antioxidants provide overall protection to the body, especially by strengthening cardiovascular health. Moreover, antioxidants can effectively counter the effects of free radicals and prevent cancerous cell growth.
Good for the skin – The ingredients in Jamun help to produce collagen. It constitutes 30% of body protein and provides structure and support to the skin, muscles, bones, and tissues, besides strengthening these.
Blood sugar control – The purple-colored elements in Jamun help control blood sugar levels. Consuming a cup of juice daily is excellent for diabetes management and even preventing the disease.
Prevent cancer – A high quantity of antioxidants in Jamun reinforces the body’s defense against cancer by fighting the free radicals and preventing the growth of cancerous cells.
Awareness about natural remedies is growing fast. So including Jamun in your diet is a safe way to ensure better health.
