Jambolan - Uses and Side Effects - By: Brain

Jambolan is derived from bark and seeds of S. cumini or S. jambolana. The bark contains gallic and ellagic acid derivatives, flavonoids, and tannins. Tannins in the bark cause astringent effects. Jambolan bark also has antibacterial, hypoglycemic, and sedative activity. The seeds contain fatty oils and tannins and possess hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antispasmodic, sedative, tonic, antidepressant, and aphrodisiac properties. Jambolan is available as dried bark, powdered seeds, and liquid extract.

Reported uses

Jambolan bark is taken orally for nonspcific acute diarrhea. It's also applied to the skin, mouth, or pharynx to decrease mild inflammation. The bark has been used to treat bronchitis, asthma, and dysentery through oral administration, and for ulcers through topical application.

Jambolan seed is used for diabetes, flatulence, constipation, pancreatic and gastric disorders, muscle spasms, fatigue, depression, and anxiety. The seed is also used as an aphrodisiac or diuretic In India, jambolan seed is used to manage diabetes induced polydipsia.

Administration

Dried bark: 3 to 6 g by mouth every day

Liquid extract containing jambolan seed: 4 to 8 ml by mouth every day

Powdered seeds: 0.3 to 2 g by mouth every day

Tea (simmer 1 to 2 tsp of dried bark in 5 oz of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes, and then strain)

Topical: Warm compress made from jambolan bark tea, applied as needed.

Hazards

The use of jambolan is associated with hypoglycemia The seed may enhance hypoglycemic effects when used with insulin or oral hypoglycemics.

Pregnant and breast-feeding patients should avoid jambolan because its effects are unknown.

Clinical considerations

Monitor blood glucose level closely in diabetic patient who uses jambolan seed, because it may cause hypoglycemia.

Advise patient to consult his health care provider if diarrhea persists for longer than 3 or 4 days.

Instruct pregnant or breast-feeding patient to avoid using jambolan.

Warn patient not to take jambolan for a GI disorder before seeking medical attention because doing so may delay diagnosis of a potentially serious medical condition.

Tell patient to remind pharmacist of any herbal and dietary supplements that he's taking when obtaining a new prescription.

Advise patient to consult his health care provider before using an herbal preparation because a treatment with proven efficacy may be available.

Research summary

The concepts behind the use of jambolan and the claims made regarding its effects haven't yet been validated scientifically.

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