Pharmacological potential of Eugenia jambolana: A review

Many herbal remedies individually or in combination have been recommended in various medical treatises for the cure of different diseases. The therapeutic value of Eugenia jambolana Lam. commonly known as ‘Jamun’ has been recognized in different system of traditional medication for the treatment of different diseases and ailments of human beings. It contains several phytoconstituents belonging to category alkaloids, glucosides, flavonoides and volatile oil. It has been reported as digestive, astringent to the bowels, anthelmintic, sore throat, bronchitis, asthma, thirst, biliousness, dysentery, blood purifier, ulcers and diabetes. Several studies using modern techniques have authenticated its use in diabetes and its complication (nephropathy, cataract, insulin resistance), as antibacterial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, as well as gastro protective agents. Most importantly, the studies have shown that it protects against the radiation-induced DNA damage and it has significantly decreased the fertilizing capacity of the male albino rats. There are few reports available on clinical uses of Eugenia jambolana in diabetes that have shown promising results.