Jujube Date – sources, health benefits, nutrients, uses and constituents at NaturalPedia.com

07/22/2017 / By Earl Garcia

Jujube dates, also known as Chinese dates, are red and round fruits characterized by their edible skin and sweet flavor. Fresh jujube fruits have a crispy texture and tarty flavor that resemble apples. On the other hand, dried jujubes have the same flavor and nutritional value as dates. The fruit is native to China, where it has been cultivated for about 4,000 years. Jujubes grow wild, but are primarily grown in Korea, Japan, and many Middle Eastern countries.

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List of known nutrients

Jujube dates have been valued for thousands of years, largely due to their high nutritional content. An article posted on the Health Benefits Times website enumerates the essential vitamins and minerals found in jujube dates, which include:

Alkaloids
Calcium
Catechin
Copper
Epicatechin
Iron
Magnesium
Manganese
Niacin
Phosphorus
Potassium
Pyridoxine
Quercetin
Riboflavin
Saponins
Sodium
Thiamin
Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Zinc

Medicinal uses for jujube dates

Jujube dates are notably high in iron and phosphorus, which are essential in maintaining a healthy blood circulation. The high iron content in jujube dates is found to promote red blood cell production and stave off anemia symptoms including muscle weakness, fatigue, indigestion, lightheadedness, and cognitive confusion. Aside from this, the saponins and alkaloids in jujube dates are touted to counter the adverse effects of free radicals and rid the bloodstream of harmful toxins. The fruit’s detoxifying properties help ward off diseases and relieve stress placed on the immune and lymphatic systems.

Likewise, the fruit’s bioactive compounds and antioxidant properties are known to inhibit free radical activities and prevent cancerous cells from spreading. On the other hand, the rich fiber content in jujube dates are touted for their beneficial effects on the digestive system. The fruit’s saponins and triterpenoids are also found to improve the body’s nutrient uptake and prevent the onset of digestive issues such as constipation, cramping, bloating and excess flatulence.

Aside from this, the fruit is also known to have significantly low calorie count and high protein and fiber levels that promotes satiety. Eating jujube dates may help people meet their daily nutritional requirements without resorting to snacking in between meals. Thus, jujube dates are especially beneficial in people who are trying to lose weight and keep the pounds off.

Jujube dates are also a popular superfood against stress and anxiety. The fruits are known to contain anxiolytic and soothing effects, which in turn positively affects the body’s hormonal levels and promotes a feeling of calmness. Additionally, the fruit’s soothing effects are found to treat insomnia or fatigue. Snacking on jujube dates or taking jujube extracts are touted to improve the body’s nervous system.

In addition, jujube dates are notably high in vitamin C, vitamin A, and other antioxidant compounds that fortify the body’s immune system. On the other hand, the fruit’s high calcium content is found to strengthen the bones and prevent the onset of osteoporosis.

Body systems supported by jujube dates

Jujube dates benefit the circulatory, digestive, and nervous systems. Jujube dates are also notably beneficial to both the muscular and immune and lymphatic systems.

Ways to use jujube dates

Jujube dates can be eaten fresh just like any other table fruit. Likewise, the fruit can be dried, pickled or made into sweets. Jujube dates can also be processed into syrups to sweeten certain beverages and dishes. In addition, the fruit can be processed into liquor. According to an article in BakerGal.com, fresh jujube fruits can be used as an alternative to fresh apples in certain recipes. On the other hand, dried jujube fruits can be used as a substitute to raisins or dates in most baked items. The website features a list of other interesting recipes that call for jujube dates.