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The jujube health benefits are many. These small gray-green fruits are a little larger than olives. However, like olives, they contain a single pit. They are used very little despite their pleasant taste and medicinal properties that have been known for centuries.
Jujube Health Benefits
Jujubes have a very high sugar content and very little fat and protein. Among its vitamins, C is prominent, at 69 mg/100 grams, similar to the orange. The whitish pulp of these fruits is rich in mucilage and organic acids, which give it its characteristic flavor. They also contain a certain amount of tannins.
Jujubes have an advantage in not being widely known, and children, particularly, appreciate them. Their dietary and therapeutic applications:
Bronchial disorders—Because of their high mucilage content, jujubes have an emollient and soothing effect on the respiratory mucosa and facilitate expectoration. Eating them raw or dried is appropriate for those suffering from cough, bronchitis, or asthma.
The liquid from steeping jujubes relieves cough and is an expectorant.
Constipation—Despite their tannin content, particularly when dried, jujubes are laxative. This is due to the action of the mucilage.
Jujube Scientific Facts
- Scientific name: Ziziphus jujuba Mill.
- Other names: Chinese date, Chinese jujube, Red date, Indian jujube.
- French: Jujube.
- Spanish: Azufaifa, Jujubo.
- German: Brustbeere.
- Description: Fruit of the jujube, a spiny bush of the botanical family Rhamnaceae, reaches two to eight meters in height.
- Environment: Originally from the Far East, perhaps Northern China, the jujube has extended throughout the Mediterranean. It has been acclimated to Central America’s tropical regions and Southern Europe’s hotter areas.
How to use and Prepare Jujube
- FRESH: Jujubes are harvested in the fall and are eaten just as they are.
- DRIED: Jujubes, like dates or raisins, can be stored for several months when dried in the open air.
- JAM: Jujube jam is prepared by blending its pulp with sugar.
- STEWED or STEEPED: This is prepared by adding a handful of jujubes for each liter of water. Raisins, dried figs, and dates may also be added. Boil until the water has been reduced by half. The dose is a one-half glass of the resulting liquid after meals, three times a day. It is not necessary to add sugar.
Frequently Asked Question
Can jujubes truly improve sleep quality?
Research suggests positive effects. While more human studies are needed, jujube components interact with your body’s serotonin system, potentially promoting relaxation and deeper sleep.
How do jujubes impact the immune system?
Jujubes are rich in antioxidants and polysaccharides. These work to combat free radicals and reduce inflammation, thereby potentially boosting your immune defenses.
Is there evidence that jujube affects cognitive function?
Animal studies suggest jujubes hold promise for protecting brain cells and potentially enhancing memory. However, more research with human subjects is needed.
Could jujubes play a role in cancer prevention?
Early laboratory studies indicate that jujube extracts might hinder the growth of some cancer cell lines. This is an active area of research, but real-world applications in humans require much more investigation.
Can jujubes aid in digestive health and constipation?
Jujube’s high fiber content is beneficial for gut health. Fiber supports regular bowel movements, making jujube a natural choice for mild constipation.
Are there any potential cardiovascular benefits from consuming jujubes?
Limited but suggestive research shows that jujubes might help manage blood pressure due to their potassium content. Further studies are needed to understand these potential jujube health benefits fully.
I’ve heard jujubes are suitable for the skin. Is this true?
Their high antioxidant content makes jujubes interesting for skincare. Antioxidants help fight the impairment caused by free radicals, which can contribute to premature aging. More targeted research on jujube health benefits for skin is underway.
Does the form of jujube matter (fresh vs. dried)?
Both fresh and dried offer beneficial compounds. Dried jujubes have concentrated nutrients, but fresh ones have higher vitamin C. Enjoy them in the preferred forms!
Are there any safety issues to be aware of with jujubes?
For most people, jujubes are safe. However, they could interact with some medications for depression or seizures. Always consult your doctor before making substantial dietary changes.
Where can I find reliable research on jujube health benefits?
Reputable sources include:
1. National Institutes of Health (NIH)
2. Peer-reviewed medical journals
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Foods and Their Healing Power.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Foods and Their Healing Power. Trans. Annette Melgosa. Vol. 2. Chai Wan: Editorial Safeliz, 2005. 149. Print. [Jujube Health benefits]
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/jujube
- https://health.clevelandclinic.org/jujube-benefits
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/are-there-health-benefits-of-jujube-fruit
- https://www.medindia.net/health/diet-and-nutrition/top-12-health-benefits-of-jujube-fruit.htm
- https://theearthyfoods.com/blogs/jujube-knowledge/what-is-jujube-chinese-red-dates
Last update on 2024-07-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API