Only the bark of the Jambolan has proven medicinal value, although the seeds are often used as well. Taken internally, the bark relieves diarrhea. Used as a gargle, it soothes mild inflammation of the mouth and throat. Applied to the skin, it clears up mild, superficial inflammation. Asian herbalists employ it for diarrhea, skin problems, stomach disorders, and vaginal discharge.
Homeopathic practitioners recommend it for diabetes.
Jambolan seed is sometimes taken for upset stomach, although evidence of its effectiveness is lacking. It also is used in the treatment of diabetes, indigestion, gas, spasms, water retention, and failing sexual desire. In Asian medicine, it's used for diabetes, diarrhea, sore throat, and diseases of the spleen. A close relative of the clove tree Syzygium aromaticum, Jambolan is native to east India and the Malay peninsula, but has spread as far as China and Australia and is grown in the Caribbean. The bark has drying effect on the tissues and has been shown to reduce blood-sugar levels in animal experiments.