Jujube fruit comes from the jujube tree, native to China. The trees were brought to the United States in the early 1900s. The small, red fruit tastes similar to an apple. When dried, jujubes taste similar to dates.
Jujube fruit health benefits stem from the nutrients it contains, including Vitamin C, potassium, Vitamin B6, copper, manganese and iron. Thanks to these vitamins and minerals, jujube fruit benefits include the ability to help treat insomnia, relieve anxiety, stabilize blood pressure, improve digestion and even help fight cancer.
Jujube Fruit Health Benefits
1. Has Anti-Cancer Properties
Studies have shown that jujube fruit is a potent cancer-fighting food. Jujube fruit benefits the body with its anti-cancer properties. According to a study from the Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, jujube fruit health benefits include the ability to induce cell death in human tumor cell lines. (1)
2. Treats Insomnia
Jujube fruit health benefits include the ability to treat insomnia. The seeds contain flavonoids, saponins and polysaccharides that have natural sedative effects. Thanks to these compounds, jujube fruit health benefits include a more restful night’s sleep. The saponins in the fruit help soothe the nervous system and treat insomnia naturally.
3. Improves Digestion
Jujube fruit health benefits include improved digestion. The fruit can be consumed as a puree, tea, soup or paste to help soothe an upset stomach. According to a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 40 milligrams of jujube each day can help improve gastrointestinal health. (2)
4. Relieves Constipation
Jujube fruit benefits the digestive system by helping to relieve constipation. Studies have shown that jujube fruit health benefits include a safe and effective treatment for constipation. It helps ensure regular bowel movements to prevent and relieve digestive problems.
5. Relieves Anxiety
Jujube fruit health benefits include the ability to reduce stress and anxiety. The fruit has a soothing effect on both the body and mind. According to a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, jujube seed extract has anti-anxiety benefits. The study suggests that jujube fruit benefits the body as a natural anxiety remedy. (3)
6. Strengthens the Immune System
Jujube fruit health benefits include the ability to fight disease. As a high-antioxidant food, jujube fruit strengthens the immune system. It contains Vitamin C and other antioxidants that help fight free radical damage. Jujube fruit benefits the body by fighting premature aging, heart disease, cancer and other illnesses associated with free radical damage.
7. Helps Stabilize Blood Pressure
Jujube fruit benefits the body by stabilizing blood pressure. One cup of jujube fruit has about 15% of the recommended daily amount of potassium. The body uses potassium to help reduce high blood pressure and improve heart health. Jujube fruit health benefits also include improved circulation. The potassium in jujube fruit works to relax the blood vessels and improve blood flow.