Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Plum (Prunus domestica) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, especially within East Asian practices. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), various forms of plum—particularly umeboshi (pickled plum)—are used to support digestive health, including the function of the small intestine. TCM practitioners often recommend plums to help alleviate symptoms such as constipation, indigestion, and irregular bowel movements. The sour and slightly astringent qualities of plum are believed to help regulate and harmonize the digestive tract, which includes the small intestine.

However, scientific research directly linking plum consumption to specific benefits for the small intestine is limited. Most modern studies focus on plums’ general digestive benefits, such as their mild laxative effect due to high fiber and sorbitol content, and their antioxidant properties. These attributes can generally support gut health but do not specifically target the small intestine in a way that is clinically established. Therefore, the use of plum to support the small intestine is justified primarily by traditional use, with some supportive but indirect evidence from research into overall digestive health. The evidence rating is moderate (2) because of the extensive traditional use but limited direct scientific validation for small intestine-specific effects.

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Other body systems supported by Plum

Digestive System
Gastrointestinal Tract
Intestinal System
Large Intestines (Colon)
Liver
Small Intestines

Products containing Plum

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.