Japanese Apricot

The Japanese Apricot (Prunus mume), also known as Mume or Ume, is a plant species from the family of rose plants (Rosaceae). It originally comes from China but is deeply rooted in the culture and cuisine of Japan and Korea in particular. The tree is prized for its aromatic fruits and its beautiful, early-blooming flowers, which are often associated with spring and renewal. The fruit of the Japanese Apricot resembles a small plum and is traditionally processed into Umeboshi (pickled, fermented fruits) or Umeshu (plum wine).

What benefits does the Japanese Apricot offer?

The Japanese Apricot contains a variety of different nutrients and bioactive compounds that could offer numerous health benefits. Here is a selection of various studies on the Japanese Apricot itself or on the active compounds it contains. As always, however, the studies should be viewed critically:

  • Promotion of digestion: Umeboshi, the fermented fruit, supports digestion in various ways. (1,2,3)
  • Detoxifying effect: The fruit is traditionally used as a means of detoxification and in studies was able to help rid the body of harmful substances such as excess uric acid. (4,5)
  • Immune support: Due to its high content of polyphenols, the Japanese Apricot could help strengthen the immune system. (4,6,7)
  • Antioxidant properties: The antioxidants it contains help neutralize free radicals and prevent cell damage. (4,8,9,10)
  • Antimicrobial effect: Studies have linked the Japanese Apricot to an antimicrobial effect (4,5,11).
  • Antidiabetic effect: Studies show that extracts of P. mume can improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar levels, and prevent the development of diabetes complications (4,12,13,14).
  • Anti-inflammatory effect: Studies show that P. mume possesses anti-inflammatory properties and, in animal models of IBD, can significantly reduce inflammatory reactions as well as immune responses, which points to therapeutic potential (4,15,16).
  • Neural effects: Investigations found that P. mume improved spatial memory in animals and had positive effects on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's (4,17).
  • Cardiovascular effects: In various studies, P. mume had positive effects on the blood and inhibited platelet aggregation, which could potentially contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (4,18,19).
  • Antitumor effects: In many studies, P. mume shows antitumor properties and has a growth-inhibiting effect on various human cancer cell lines by activating mechanisms such as apoptosis, autophagy, and ROS accumulation in cancer cells. Clinical studies and animal experiments have shown that extracts of P. mume can display synergistic effects in combination with other cancer therapies (4,20,21,22).

How does the Japanese Apricot work?

The health-promoting effects of the Japanese Apricot can be attributed to its potent constituents:

  • Citric acid: This organic acid has various effects on the human body that can contribute to health (23,24).
  • Polyphenols: Powerful antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory effects and can deliver a range of benefits (6,7,8).
  • Minerals: The fruit is rich in various minerals that are involved in a multitude of different processes in the human body.

The combination of these constituents makes the Japanese Apricot a versatile food with potential benefits for digestion, the immune system, and general health.

Side effects and precautions

Although the Japanese Apricot offers many benefits, there are some aspects to keep in mind:

  • Acid content: Due to its high content of organic acids, excessive consumption of Umeboshi can cause heartburn or stomach irritation in sensitive individuals.
  • Salt content: Pickled Japanese Apricots (Umeboshi) often contain large amounts of salt. People with high blood pressure or on a low-salt diet should therefore consume them only in moderation.
  • Raw consumption: Raw fruits of the Japanese Apricot can contain small amounts of amygdalin, which is broken down into hydrocyanic acid in the body. The fruits should therefore only be eaten in processed form.

Conclusion

The Japanese Apricot is not only a cultural icon in East Asia but also a valuable food with numerous health benefits. Its positive effects on digestion, immune function, and cell health make it a versatile component of a balanced diet. The fruit unfolds its unique properties especially in fermented form as Umeboshi or in beverages such as Umeshu. Nevertheless, the high salt and acid content should be taken into account for sensitive individuals.

Sources:

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  2. Arakelyan, Hayk. (2020). Japanese Sour Salted Plums - Umeboshi and Health..
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