Family Name: Myrtaceae
Botanical Name(s): Syzygium Cumini
Popular Name(s): Jambul, Jamun, Jaman, Black Plum, Faux
Pistachier, Indian Blackberry, Jambol, Doowet and Jambolan.
Parts Used: Stems and Leaves
Habitat: It is native to India and Indonesia. It is also grown
in other areas of southern Asia including Myanmar and Afghanistan.
Description: A fairly fast growing species, it can reach heights
of up to 30 m and can live more than 100 years. Its dense foliage
provides shade and is grown just for its ornamental value. The wood is
strong and is water resistant. The plant grows with lance-shaped leaves
and greenish yellow flowers. The ripened fruit has a scent and taste of
ripe apricots.
Uses: The fruit and seeds are used in the treatment of diabetes.
Research has shown that it has significant hypoglycemic action in both
the urine and blood and, therefore, of value to diabetics. A number of
herbal medicines are proving helpful in this area, including the
bilberry as well as jambul. Tests show that even small amounts of jambul
will rapidly reduce blood and urine sugar levels.
