Evidence supporting the use of: Plum
For the body system: Large Intestines (Colon)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Plums have a longstanding history in traditional medicine, particularly within East Asian practices, for supporting digestion and promoting bowel regularity. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), plums (especially the dried form called "wu mei") are used to aid in alleviating constipation, soothing the intestines, and balancing digestive function. The fruit's mild laxative effects are attributed to its fiber content and naturally occurring sorbitol, which can help ease bowel movements. While prunes (dried plums) are better known in Western herbal traditions for their digestive support, fresh plums have been used in various cultures to address issues like sluggish bowel movements or mild constipation.
Scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited but not entirely absent. Most research focuses on prunes rather than fresh plums, with studies showing prunes can help improve stool frequency and consistency due to their fiber and sorbitol. However, since prunes are simply dried plums, some of these benefits may also apply to plums in a less concentrated form. Despite this, robust clinical trials specifically examining plums for large intestine or colon health are lacking. Thus, the main rationale for using plums for large intestine support remains rooted in traditional practices rather than strong scientific validation.
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bacillus clausii
bacillus coagulans
bacillus subtilis
barley
berberine
bifidobacterium bifidum
bifidobacterium breve
bifidobacterium infantis
bifidobacterium lactis
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chicory
chloride
chlorophyll
cinnamon
citrus pectin
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turmeric
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d-glucarate
d-sorbitol
dandelion
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lactobacillus gasseri
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lactobacillus jensenii
lactobacillus paracasei
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peppermint oil
perilla
phellodendron amurense
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algae
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Black Seed
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Brassica
Bistort
Bran
Baicalein
Bael
Butternut
boldo
Bindweed
Bacillus licheniformis
Bifidobacterium animalis
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Bitter principals
Bacteria
Black root
banana
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Bassia scoparia
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Emodin
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salt
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Wormseed
Zucchini
Other body systems supported by Plum
Digestive SystemGastrointestinal Tract
Intestinal System
Large Intestines (Colon)
Liver
Small Intestines