I am sure as a kid you would remember eating this delicious fruit! For me, the memories were mostly on the lines of climbing the branches of a very huge tree in our friend's house. And watching my friends climb up the tree while I wait eagerly down for my share of plum, juicy Nava Pazham. I wasn't big on climbing trees, so I allowed myself just the share of playing the guard and share the bounty with them.
Somehow our memories of our wonderful childhood never leave us right. Though after so many years, I could very well lay hands on even plumper and juicer Jamuns, those from memory refuses to pass. And every time I pop in one to enjoy those memories of a 7 yrs old comes back haunting! And to imagine those lovely ones are not only tasty but are so healthy makes it all the more dear.
As part of the diet for diabetics, Jamuns are one of the fruits that a diabetic can eat without hesitation. Not only is the fruit so healthy, but the Jamun seed powder is also very good for diabetes.
"Jambul (Syzygium cumini) is an evergreen tropical tree in the flowering plant family Myrtaceae native to Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Indonesia. It is also known as Jamun, Nerale Hannu, Njaval, Jamblang, Jambolan, Black Plum, Damson Plum, Duhat Plum, Jambolan Plum, Java Plum or Portuguese Plum. "Malabar plum" may also refer to other species of Syzygium.
Jamun trees start flowering from March to April. The flowers of Jamun are fragrant and small, about 5 mm in diameter. The fruits develop by May or June and resemble large berries. The fruit is oblong, ovoid, starts green and turns pink to shining crimson black as it matures. A variant of the tree produces white coloured fruit. The fruit has a combination of sweet, mildly sour and astringent flavour and tends to colour the tongue purple. The seed is also used in various alternative healing systems like Ayurveda (to control diabetes, for example), Unani and Chinese medicine for digestive ailments. The leaves and bark are used for controlling blood pressure and gingivitis. Wine and vinegar are also made from the fruit. It has a high source in vitamin A and vitamin C." - Source Wiki
Diabetics are advised to consume 1 tsp of this Jamun seed powder on an empty stomach early morning. Please always have luke warm water to drink with this powder.
Let's see how we can prepare this powder.
There are two ways of making this powder, one with drying in sun and the other without by dry roast the seeds.
Sun Dried Jamun Seeds Powder
Once you eat the fleshy part of the fruit, wash the seeds and dry in sun for a week. By then you will have really dry seed, whose outer skin will peel off and inside berry would be more like pistachio.
You can pound the seeds along with the outer skin and make it into a fine powder. Since this is sun dried, it becomes really hard and your mixer blades might go for a toss if you try to make a powder of it! So take caution to pound it into smaller pieces before running in the food processor or mixer.
Once you have a fine powder, store it in a container and eat 1 tsp first thing in the morning on empty stomach.
Powder from wet seeds.
The powder can also be made immediately after you wash off the flesh.
Heat a pan, and dry roast the seeds till they turn crispy. Pound them into fine powder and store for consumption.
The only difference I found in this method is, at times it becomes difficult to get it roasted well and dry.
The choice is yours, but consume a teaspoon of Jamun powder for better management of Diabetes!
Vani says
My grandfather's house had one of these trees - a really big one. We'd pick fallen fruits and eat them. Good stuff. Had no idea they were so useful for diabetics.
jayasree says
Very useful info and new to me. Never knew about the benefits of jamuns for diabetics.
KALVA says
should let my dad know abt this!!
Khanh says
Where can I buy the Jamun seed powder?
M A J Jeyaseelan says
I simply eat the seed also while eating the fruit. One can easily eat one out of every three or four jamuns with seeds. You would not even know that you have eaten the seeds too. Why take the trouble of drying the seeds, powdering them and storing them.
Of course always keep a glass of water handy while eating jamuns. If were eating these in a hurry, your food pipe might get choked too. Just take a glass of water to wash the pulp down
Shankar (Chennai) says
I have high count of diabetes...running into 160 (fasting) and about 230 (PP). I have been trying all sorts of medicines to reduce the sugar count in my blood. I also inject insulin 2 times a day to keep the sugar under control. The above counts that I have mentioned is inspite of using insulin. I was frustrated and at my wits end since doctor continued to increase insulin dosage starting from 12 units in 2007 to now 22 (Sept 2010) in the morning and another 22 in the evening.
Recently my wife suggested that why not try fenugreek seeds (methi seeds). She used to put a tea spoon of seeds in a cup and soak in water overnight. In the morning I used to drink the water immediately after brushing my teeth. I did find that there was marginal improvement in my sugar count and it was useful- although not too much. Then she suggested why not try jamun/jambul seed powder. I was a bit skeptical...I thought it might be bitter or bad tasting (I do not like bitter stuff like karela juice etc). However, I went to local market, specially to Ayurvedic shop selling such stuff, and bought a small bottle of jamun powder (still skeptical). Next day I had the powder (half tea spoon) in slightly warm water right after brushing my teeth. After breakfast (2 hours) I measured my sugar count...it was 151 (PP) dropped from 210. I was happy- but still skeptical and not sure if this powder had really reduced my sugar count. After taking powder for 2 days in the morning, I again measured my sugar count. In the morning (fasting) it had become 151, but after breakfast (PP) it became 102!!! I was really stunned and pleasantly surprised. I was still no sure and it was hard for me to believe!!! Then I decided to change the timing. Instead of having the powder in the morning, I decided to use the powder (with a little water) at 7.00pm in the evening to see if it had any effect in my sugar count in the morning (fasting). After 2 days I measured my count and, yes, definitely the count had reached 109 from 151. I am now absolutely convinced about the magical effects of the jamun powder and intend to take half tea spoon in the morning and also half teaspoon in the evening to control the sugar. I will also be reducing my insulin units from 22 to 10 or 12 over the next 2 months to see if the powder can control the sugar level even without insulin.
As part of my research and by talking to other friends and relatives who have diabetes, I realized that each individual has a different requirement. For some fenugreek seeds work wonders and for some it does not work. For some jamun powder works and for some it may not work. Therefore someone will tell you karela juice, fenugreek seeds or jamun powder. But you will have to experiment yourself and find out what is most suitable for you.
LS NARAYAN Rao says
Dear Mr shankar I agree with you in this matter You can reply to me. I am an BSc agri graduate from University of Agricultural Bangalore Served the farmers for more than 35yrs as Technical Advisor for growing many crops like pomogrsnates, mango, grapes, Oranges ,Rice ,wheat ,sugarcane,tobcco ,coffee cardmum banana ginger turmeric Also helped many big companies to manufacture Organic fertilisers Since helping Dibetics patients by manufcturing purely organic powders to lead a happy life interested kindly reply
Shankar (Chennai) says
I have high count of diabetes...running into 160 (fasting) and about 230 (PP). I have been trying all sorts of medicines to reduce the sugar count in my blood. I also inject insulin 2 times a day to keep the sugar under control. The above counts that I have mentioned is inspite of using insulin. I was frustrated and at my wits end since doctor continued to increase insulin dosage starting from 12 units in 2007 to now 22 (Sept 2010) in the morning and another 22 in the evening.
Recently my wife suggested why not try jamun/jambul seed powder. I was a bit skeptical...I thought it might be bitter or bad tasting (I do not like bitter stuff like karela juice etc). However, I bought a small bottle of jamun powder (still skeptical). Next day I had the powder (half tea spoon) in slightly warm water right after brushing my teeth. After breakfast (2 hours) I measured my sugar count...it was 151 (PP) dropped from 210. I was happy- but still skeptical and not sure if this powder had really reduced my sugar count. After taking powder for 2 days in the morning, I again measured my sugar count. In the morning (fasting) it had become 151, but after breakfast (PP) it became 102!!! I was really stunned and pleasantly surprised. I was still no sure and it was hard for me to believe!!! Then I decided to change the timing. Instead of having the powder in the morning, I decided to use the powder (with a little water) at 7.00pm in the evening to see if it had any effect in my sugar count in the morning (fasting). After 2 days I measured my count and, yes, definitely the count had reached 109 from 151. I am now absolutely convinced about the magical effects of the jamun powder and intend to take half tea spoon in the morning and also half teaspoon in the evening to control the sugar. I will also be reducing my insulin units from 22 to 10 or 12 over the next 2 months to see if the powder can control the sugar level even without insulin.
Subir Kumar adhikari says
Mr.shankar please dr.khadar valli's millet diet. You will be totally cured of diabetes.
Srivalli says
Shankar,
Thank you so much for stopping by and writing so much in detail on the benefits of Jamun Seeds. I am sure everyone who reads this will be so benefited.
karuna says
Thank you Mr.Shankar for the testim`ony,yes even i 've eperienced the wonders of Fenugreekseeds,karela and jamun poweder.Even Avacado fruit and Flaxseeds are also known to reduce Bad cholestrol.Thank God for all the wonderful natural foods He has given us.
Anonymous says
Very informative!
Thanks to the admin, Shankar to put this invaluable info to diabetics..
mian younis says
Thank you Mr.Shankar
gmail.com says
DEAR SHANKAR,
i am very fond of Jamun fruit and have been taking durind the season. Now I have decided to introduce jamun seed powder to control my diabetes. I have noted to post my results.
s.m.nagpal
Anonymous says
I am what is called a recently diagnosed 'pre-diabetic', and have tried a few things recently to reduce the numbers to stay within range. I find when I have one teaspoon of jamun powder dissolved in a little water before going to bed, the sugar level fasting the next morning is down to the 90's from the early 100's (106). Definitely working for me.
We need some scientific tests done though to confirm results.
Guru says
I like the idea of Mr M A Jeeyaseelan above to eat jamun seeds after four five jamun. I have tried that and its taste nice and fresh so I am eating after four five jamun one seed too very interesting way of enjoying seeds too.
Srinivas Garudachar says
I read with interest Shankars comment on use of Jamun seed powder, and am looking forward to making and using myself. Thanks.
I would like to share my similar exp using a concoction of household condiments and herbs for managing sugar levels.
My regimen is as follows: chew and consume a couple of cloves of garlic , with plenty of water downed thereafter...first thing in the morning.
I make and keep aside a jug of buttermilk, mixed with mashed fresh curry leaves, coriander leaves, powdered fenugreek seeds and a dash of turmeric. Blend this in the mixer, and keep the decoction, post filtering off the leafy residue.
I drink a glass or two of this thru the day during meal times. The results have been fabulous, the sugar levels are well within control. There was a time when my HbA1C was about 11, it is now around 6.5
Must mention that Supplemented with this is regular brisk walking of about 8km a day, and a healthy regulated diet with less starchy food. Plenty of fresh juices and fruits.
Srivalli says
Srinivas Thanks for the suggestion. Will try your concoction and let you know.
Srivalli says
Srinivas Thanks for the suggestion. Will try your concoction and let you know.
Anonymous says
Appreciating the comments on Jambhul.
Yes this fruit really works in diabetes.I will add to this that when we are eating jamun fruit eat as as a whole fruits with the seed there is drastic fall in sugar levels. Also when using powder drink the powder in the evening 2 hours before u r sugar will be normal if u take it it life long.An addition of awala powder can be made as awala keeps you active the whole day.
Shashank Sheode
Ram Mohan says
Dear Srivalli
I live in Africa and possibly have the only trees in these parts. I have made the powder successfully.
Are there any restrictions ?
An Indian friend who is diabetic cautioned me that Jamun seeds could make you glaucomic (?) Where sugar levels drop off too low.
Is there any precaution to be taken if one follows the one teaspoon per day dosage?
Is the powder to be taken dry and then washed down or can it be mixed in water or milk?
Does one need to consult a doctor on this or not?
Thanks
Regards
Ram
Srivalli says
Hello Ram Thank you for writing. As I had mentioned earlier in the Diabetes series, these were home remedies that my MIL followed. Diet balance for a Diabetic is very tricky and it varies for individual. However all these home remedies are known to aid. These will not be the final solution.
It worked for my MIL, however it again depends individual for how long they will follow these diets.
My mil used to take a ball of about 4 -5 gms size. She used to gulp it with a glass of water. I do not have any idea on this powder will make you glaucomic. Again you can start it slowly and check.
You can consult a doctor if you are hesitant on this.
My father is a specialist on Diabetes, please do read on the articles he has written in this space.
I wish you all the best in controlling this...thanks..
Srinivas Garudachar says
Hello Ram Mohan,
I take a t spoon of the powder twice a day. Having with water makes it palatable. Ask your friend to try it out and re calibrate as required.
Where in Africa are based? Similarly, I use an okra cut at both ends, dipped in a closed glass of water overnight...drinking up the mushy decoction first thing in the morning.
These are basically nature remedies that I'd encourage your friend to try out, and bactrack if there is an adverse severe reaction.
Make sure that the ingredients are clean chemical free and not processed...you never know what you get out in the market.
Hope this helps. Since we are on the topic of traditional remedies, I'd like to point you to an organization called Foundation for Revitalising Local Health traditions. It's one of only two such orgs in the world, established specifically for this purpose.
Trust this helps you and all others on this blog.
Sujata Tiwari says
I am diabetic and have started taking the jamun powder 1/4 teaspoon in the morning only. Please do let me know for how long one should take this and if there is any drop in sugar levels as I suffer from those to.I need help. Am 54 and have started taking this for last 2 days.
Thanks
Sujata
Srivalli says
Sujata Thanks for dropping in. First off, this seed powder is a home remedy and I am not sure how it will work on different individuals. As I have been saying, I noticed this worked for my MIL. Even now she has a cup of seeds getting dried up.
Please take this for a week, monitor your sugar levels, including your diet through the week. Since when is the drop in sugar levels? Is it after taking this powder. Please monitor all that and accordingly adjust your input. My father says that a diabetic is half doctor and should know about their own body, better than the doc. So first try understanding what works and what doesn't.
Basic rule is always to have a balanced intake, with less of carbs and more of fibre, protein in your diet.
Hope this helps. Please feel free to write back.
Anonymous says
jamun vinegar also helps in dropping high sugar level to normal level
Vijay ganesh says
Plz advise whether consuming jamoon seed powder for sugar control will adversely act on people having regular english medicines
Srivalli says
Vijay Ganesh I suggest you consult your doctor if you have apprehension about consuming this powder. However I have observed this helping. Of course you must realize controlling your sugar levels is a continuous process and no one thing will reduce and make you get off your tablets. I wish you success with your trails.
Vinod Rathode says
May I know how to use this jamun powder for better results
Srivalli says
Vinod I have mentioned how my MIL was consuming in the post. Please read through it. Thank you.
Unknown says
Kindly advise if allopathic medicines to be stopped before taking the jamun powder or to be progressively reduced.
Srinivas
Srivalli says
Srinivas These home remedy aids to reduce your Allopathic medication. Over a period you should be able to control your sugar levels with proper diet and medication. However just eating this powder alone will not help in stopping. My MIL saw a progressive reduction in her dosage. Please track your diet, regime and based on it, follow. Thanks for stopping by
Anonymous says
Jamun seed powder of local jamun fruits(round & small) is observed by me effect full rather than big hybrid jamun.
Krishna Kanth says
I AM FROM BHILAI (CHHATTISGARH), 42 years, VERY RECENTLY I HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH BLOOD SUGAR of 230 FF / 330 PP. AS I WON'T LIKE TO GO FOR ALOPATHY, LOOKING FOR ALTERNATIVES, I READ THE MESSAGE OF MR. SHANKAR, WHICH I FEEL IS QUITE USEFUL, AND FROM LAST ONE DAY I HAVE STARTED TAKING JAMUN GUTHALI POWDER (1/2 TB SPOON) ON EMPTY STOMACH AND EVENING (1/2 TB SPOON).
i WILL POST THE CLINICAL VALUES IN DUE COURSE OF TIME AFTER SUGAR TEST.
chenist says
can you indicate the results Mr Krishna kanth and the effect of jamun powder
jimesha thomas says
For how many days can we store did home prepared jamun seed
Srivalli says
From what I remember it was about a week. Make small portions so that its easy to store.
jimesha thomas says
it is a seasonal fruit right? so if we prepare small quantity how can we use it later wen the fruit season is over
Srivalli says
Hi Jimesha, I meant stock the seeds, and freeze. Make the powder in small quantity so that you can use it always closer to freshness.
Kavita says
Hi srivali can we store d powder in a freezer for a year?
Srivalli says
Kavita, I have seen my MIL freezing the seeds for some time, not sure if it is for a year. However, if you go by the logic of freezing, it should be possible for at least 4 to 6 months.
Home she thomas says
Thank you srivalli. One more help do you know whether any research had been done in humans. I mean review of literature. Actually I am planning to do a research on this
Jimesha thomas says
If u cud help me kindly send me mail on [email protected]
Jimesha thomas says
I am planning to do a research on this. If u find any review of literature for this topic abt studies done in humans kindly send me via mail
Srivalli says
Thanks for dropping by Jimesha, if I come across any material, will surely fwd it to you. However as I have mentioned, this a result of many home remedies passed down through friends and relatives. I don't have any solid proofs to support this. I have seen my mother in law, saying it helped her control her sugar levels to an extent..
Davis onono says
Good,and useful coment.wil implement.
Tusiime winnie says
Hello IAM 26yrs old n I was diagnosed with high blood wen I got pregnant fr my first baby that's was 2yrs back but my problem the sugar level keeps rising n now it's at 22n I really don't want to start Medication at this age n want to opt for natural remedies advise do u give me
Srivalli says
Hi, thanks for dropping by. Will consult my father and let you know.
Srivalli says
Hello Tusiime, I have pasted the reply from my Father.
=====================
Diabetes during pregnancy (Gestational Diabetes) is common and it may be seen among 10 % of pregnant girls. This can be especially expected if the parents are Diabetic or if there's is a family history of Diabetes.
Normally, Gestational Diabetes will disappear after the delivery.
Even if the parents are Diabetic, Diabetes does not appear at the age of 26.
You don't have to think of medication straight away.
Maintaining the Ideal body weight, regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, avoiding large meals, and switching to small meals 5 to 6 times a day will help.
Avoiding foods with a high glycemic index and restricting high carbohydrates foods may also help.
In this way, you may avoid/postpone the occurrence of Diabetes even if you have a family history of Diabetes.
Right now please don't think of medication but practice the lifestyle changes as suggested above.
The baby is also to be tested for Diabetes.
In the case of persisting high blood sugars after 4 to 6 six months of lifestyle changes, a test called GTT has to be done before deciding the medication, which is usually with a small dose one medicine.
But right now, please start lifestyle changes and be happy.
Khushbu says
Khushbu
What kind of water I have to use to intake jamun seeds powder early in the morning.......plz tell..