Japanese plum, commonly known as Japanese apricot, is a delicious fruit with a plethora of nutritious benefits.

This fruit has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, and its popularity is spreading worldwide because of various health benefits it has to offer.

History and Origin

Japanese plum tree with botanical name Prunus mume and is believed to be originated from China.

According to historical documents, this fruit tree was first cultivated in the 8th century in Japan and was introduced to Korea and Taiwan in the 9th century. Over the years, plum cultivation has expanded to other parts of the world, including Europe and North America.

Nutritional and Medicinal Benefits

Japanese plum is enriched with a variety of essential nutrients that are vital for maintaining optimal health. It is a rich source of vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system.

Furthermore, plums are loaded with dietary fibers, which aids digestion and improves bowel movements.

Japanese plum also possesses a significant amount of flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which are potent antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.

These compounds have been found to possess several health benefits that may help in preventing chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Aside from its nutritive benefits, Japanese plum has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as a natural remedy for various ailments.

The fruit and its extracts have been found to possess powerful anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties that help in fighting infections and inflammation in the body. Moreover, plum extracts have been found to have anti-aging effects on the skin.

Japanese Plum Tea and Drink Benefits

Japanese plum tea is a popular drink in Japan and other parts of the world. It is made by steeping the dried plum in hot water.

The tea is believed to have several health benefits such as reducing the risk of cancer, controlling blood sugar levels, and promoting weight loss. Plum tea is also a natural detoxifier that helps in cleansing the liver and other vital organs such as kidneys and intestines.

Another popular Japanese plum drink is Umeshu. This drink is a traditional Japanese liqueur made by steeping Japanese plums in shochu, a distilled spirit made from rice, wheat, or barley.

Umeshu has a sweet and sour taste and is a favorite among the Japanese. It is believed to possess several health benefits such as boosting the immune system, aiding in digestion, and promoting relaxation.

Japanese Plum Recipes and Culinary Benefits

Japanese plum is an excellent fruit that is not only nutritious but also versatile when it comes to cooking. It is commonly used in making jams, jellies, and other sweet dishes. It is also used in preparing sauces for savory dishes such as meat or fish.

In Japanese cuisine, plum is a popular ingredient in making pickled plums or Umeboshi. These pickled plums are salty and sour and are commonly eaten with rice.

Umeboshi is known for its cleansing and detoxifying properties and is a traditional Japanese remedy for fatigue and digestive problems.

Conclusion

Japanese plum is a delicious fruit with numerous health benefits. It is a rich source of essential nutrients such as vitamins, fibers, and antioxidants. Japanese plum has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as a natural remedy for various ailments.

The fruit and its extracts have been found to possess powerful anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties that help in fighting infections and inflammation in the body. Furthermore, Japanese plum tea and Umeshu are popular drinks with several health benefits. Plum also has culinary benefits and is a common ingredient in Japanese cuisine.