Researchers from North South University have shown that Java plums can effectively prevent cell damage caused by oxidative stress, reduce likelihood of inflammation and fibrosis in the liver, and suggests seed powder can improve reaction to insulin resistance and regulate abnormal cholesterol levels.
Rats were fed high carbohydrate high fat diets for this study that were divided into groups with some being fed dried and powdered Java plum seeds. Powder was sampled to evaluate phenolic content; blood glucose, weight, and food intake of the animals was measured every day, and tissues were harvested at conclusion for analysis.
HCHF diets were found to lead to obesity and increase risk of metabolic syndromes that can lead to diabetes and CVD. Animals showed increased body weight gain, fat deposits in abdominal regions, increased insulin resistance, abnormally high lipid levels, and increased oxidative stress in the liver; those given Java plum powder had improved tolerance to insulin believed to be due to presence of gallic acid and ellagic acid helping to stabilize glucose and insulin levels.
It was noted that the syzygium cumini seed powder prevented rise of plasma oxidative stress markers and restored antioxidant enzyme activities; antioxidant activity was also seen in the liver, reducing biomarkers for infiltration of inflammatory cells, fibrosis, iron overload, and prevented rise of total cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
According to the researchers the study shows the ameliorative potential of Java plum powder on high fat diets inducing glucose intolerance, oxidative stress, dyslipidemia, inflammation, and fibrosis of the liver; posited benefits are due to its potent antioxidant activity but suggest further studies are need to gain better understandings of the mechanisms of action.
Java plums have been used in traditional and Ayurvedic medicines to treat conditions ranging from ringworms to coughs and dysentery to diabetes. Java plums can also be called black plum or jannun and have been linked to many health benefits such as treating digestive disorders like diarrhea; boosting digestive health; improving dental conditions; boosting the immune system; helping with coughs and asthma; protection from colds; and acting as an anti-aging agent.
