Plums are sweet and rich in nutritional value, making them a relatively traditional fruit. As they are in season, they have become very popular and offer a multitude of health benefits.
1. Beauty Enhancement
According to the Compendium of Materia Medica, plum blossoms, when used in facial creams, have excellent beautifying effects. They can "remove blemishes and dark spots" and "give the skin a healthy glow," and are also effective in treating conditions like sweat spots and facial dark patches.
2. Promotes Digestion
Plums can promote the secretion of gastric acid and digestive enzymes, and increase gastrointestinal motility. Therefore, eating plums aids digestion, increases appetite, and is an excellent dietary remedy for those with insufficient stomach acid, post-meal bloating, and constipation.
3. Clears the Liver and Promotes Urination
Fresh plum flesh contains various amino acids, such as glutamine, serine, glycine, and proline. Eating them raw is highly beneficial for treating liver cirrhosis and ascites.
4. Lowers Blood Pressure, Acts as a Laxative, and Suppresses Coughs
The kernel of the plum contains amygdalin and a large amount of fatty oil. Pharmacological studies have confirmed its significant diuretic and blood pressure-lowering effects. It can also accelerate intestinal peristalsis to promote the expulsion of dry stools and has cough-suppressing and phlegm-expelling properties.