Health Benefits of Duhat

Rose May Pimentel in Health

Oct 22, 2023 • 3 min Read

Duhat is one of the most popular fruits in the Philippines, also known as java plum or black plum in English. In Cebu and some parts of Visayas, duhat is known as Lomboy. It is rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Duhat has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

Duhat can be enjoyed fresh, eaten as is with rock salt, or added to fruit salads for an exotic twist. This fruit is also used in the creation of juices, jams, jellies, and even duhat wine.

Here are some of the amazing benefits of this delightful fruit, from WebMD, a health site:

1. Maintains Proper Heart Health

Duhat contains a high level of potassium. If you want a healthy heart, try eating duhat regularly. Potassium helps keep your heart beating right, maintains heart health, and helps prevent the occurrence of stroke and high blood pressure.

2. Repairs Damage Caused by Cigarette Smoke

Cigarette smoke contains harmful chemicals that change the structure of parts of the lungs. In a study conducted in mice, duhat was found to reduce free radicals in animals affected by cigarette smoke-related inflammation. 

3. Prevents Colon Cancer

The fruit is rich in antioxidants, which work against free radical cells that often trigger the growth of cancerous cells. Some extracts from duhat such as cyanidin are known to be important for colon cancer prevention.

4. Improves Immunity

Duhat contains nutrients and vitamins that help to boost your body’s immunity. Some of these nutrients include sodium, calcium, iron, and carbohydrates.

5. Brightens Skin

Consuming duhat will make your skin smooth and give it a glowing appearance due to the antioxidant compounds and vitamin C contents that help in the formation of collagen in the skin.

6. Relieves Headaches

The content of astringent substances found in duhat relieves headaches with varying degrees of severity. Fresh duhat provides a freshening effect so that headache sufferers feel more comfortable.

7. Treatment for Respiratory Conditions

Coughs can be severe and damage the throat and respiratory system. Duhat contains zinc and vitamin C that may help to prevent coughs and other respiratory complications. It is a good remedy for asthmatic symptoms may prevent severe relapses.

8. Acts as an Antibacterial

Duhat is a suitable remedy for many illnesses caused by bacteria in the body.

9. Strengthens Teeth and Gums

Duhat is beneficial to the teeth and gums. It contains minerals like calcium and phosphorus that are important in the development of healthy teeth. 

10. Protects the Body Against Free Radicals

Duhat is rich in polyphenol antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect your cells from damage by free radicals.

11. Prevents Infection

Duhat contains malic acid, tannins, gallic acid, ascorbic acid, and oxalic acid, which have antibacterial properties. The fruit is effective in preventing common infections.

12. Diabetes Treatment

Duhat can act as a good remedy for symptoms of diabetes such as excess urination and thirst. They have a low glycemic content, which helps maintain blood sugar levels. Various recipes utilize the seeds, bark, and leaves of the tree.

Other Health Benefits of Duhat:

* Helping to manage weight

* Boost immunity

* Low-calorie count

* Protects against anemia

* Prevents nausea and vomiting

* Helps in weight management

Indeed, this tropical fruit is highly nutritious. Make it a great addition to your balanced and varied diet and enjoy its benefits!

Stay healthy and safe!

Source of Featured Photo: Pinterest – Francisca Manlapaz