Also known as rose apple, black plum and Java plum, Eugenia jambolana or simply jambul is an evergreen tree ground throughout Australia and Asia. As with other kinds of cloves, the fruit and seeds are the parts used in ayurvedic medicine.

Jambul has a general beneficial effect on digestive function in that it can help expel gas as well as tighten and tone tissues. It's ability to lower blood sugar without any side effects makes it a great choice for treating diabetes. It is also used to treat spleen enlargement, diarrhea and dysentery. The herb's potential as a male contraceptive is also being studied in India.

Jambul may be helpful for those with diabetes and retinopathy. Jambul fruit pulp has been reported by practitioners of ayurvedic medicine to lower blood sugar levels in just 30 minutes, while jambul seed can do the same in just about 24 hours. To reach the full hypoglycemic affect, the herb must be used as treatment for ten days. Studies in animals have also suggested that jambul prevents the formation of cataracts caused by diabetes. In diabetics, the risk of developing atherosclerosis can also be reduced with jambul as the oleanolic acid in jambul halts the chemical reactions by which free radicals are formed. Lack of this free radical makes it impossible for the immune systems cleanup cells (macrophages) to accumulate on walls of the arteries where artery-clogging foam can form. Free radical action in atherosclerosis can be reduced by 60 - 90 percent with oleanolic acid.

Cancer - The oleanolic acid found in jambul reduces damage to the heart and liver caused by cancer chemotherapy. Jambul also contains compounds that activate the detoxifying enzyme glutathione S-transferase in the liver. Lab tests in animals have shown the chances of developing stomach cancer to be reduced by nearly 80 percent when the production of glutathione S-transferase is increased.

Jambul seeds can be added to daily cooking. In ayervedic medicine, it is recommended to take jambul synergistically with okra. This causes an effect which lowers blood sugar levels even further.

* Important notes: It is recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified healthcare practitioner prior to using Jambul or any alternative therapies. Any recommended doses are for those over age 18. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.