Jamun Honey & Diabetes Management

Diabetes Management and Jamun Honey

Ekta Upadhyay

Jamun (Indian Blackberry) has been associated with diabetes management. To understand the “How & Why”of this connection lets first understand some of the unique substances found in the Jamun fruit, flower and its pollen. 

Jamun plants naturally contain Jambosine and Jamboline. These substances slow down conversion of starch to sugar. Jamun Fruits, Seeds and flower all contain Jambosine and Jamboline which is why, when consumed in limited quantities, its considered safe for pre diabetes and diabetes. 

Jamun Honey is a  Mono Floral Honey – tracing back its source to Jamun Orchards (Indian BlackBerry; Scientific Name – Syzygium cumini). Jamun trees flower abundantly with white flowers in clusters rich in nectar and pollen which lend Jamun Honey a unique taste.

When harvested ethically, it should be free from any artificial sweeteners or pesticides, antibiotics or chemical

Honey with its higher fructose to glucose ratio has a lower glycemic index compared to other sweeteners and it does relieve the  common diabetes symptoms like excessive thirst, urination and fatigue. People who have greater intolerance to glucose like those with mild diabetes and Type 1 diabetes have better tolerance to honey as compared to sucrose.

Why is Jamun Honey so dark in color?

Jamun honey contains bioactive phytochemicals and while it is sweet as Honey should be, it is comparatively less sweet with a distinct Jamun aftertaste. The Honeybees feed and forage on the Jamun blossoms and the pollen content gives the Jamun Honey not only a dark tint but also an intense flavor with slight tangy undertones.