Dinolax

Indications

Syzygium cumini (black plum or jamun, known in Bangladesh as kalojam) is a tree whose seeds, bark and fruit are used in Unani and Ayurvedic medicine. The dried seed powder is traditionally used to support blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes, and to ease diarrhoea and excessive thirst and urination. Some small studies suggest a modest blood-sugar-lowering effect, but evidence is limited and it must not replace prescribed diabetes treatment.

How It Works

Jamun seeds contain natural substances such as jamboline (a glycoside), ellagic acid and tannins. These are thought to slow the breakdown of starch into sugar in the gut and may help the body use insulin better. The tannins have an astringent (drying, tightening) effect on the bowel lining, which explains the traditional use for diarrhoea.

Dosage and Administration

Take as directed on the label or by a registered practitioner, usually before or with meals with water. Eating the fruit in season is generally safe. If you have diabetes, keep taking your prescribed medicines and check your blood sugar regularly.

Interactions

• It may lower blood sugar further with diabetes medicines such as Metformin, Gliclazide or Insulin; watch for low sugar.
• Its tannins may reduce the absorption of iron supplements and some other medicines; keep about 2 hours apart.
• Tell your doctor about all herbal products you take.

Contraindications

• Allergy to jamun or any ingredient.
• Constipation or bowel blockage, because of its drying effect.
• Medicinal doses in pregnancy and breastfeeding, unless a doctor advises it.

Side Effects

It is usually well tolerated. Possible effects include constipation, stomach discomfort, nausea and, in people taking diabetes medicines, low blood sugar.

Get urgent medical help if you have signs of very low blood sugar (shaking, sweating, confusion, fainting), severe stomach pain, or a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Eating the fruit is considered safe. There is not enough information on medicinal amounts of the seed in pregnancy and breastfeeding; avoid them unless your doctor advises it. Diabetes in pregnancy needs specialist care.

Precautions and Warnings

• Diabetes needs regular medical care; do not stop or change prescribed medicines without your doctor.
• Diarrhoea lasting more than 2 days, or with blood, fever or dehydration, needs a doctor.
• Stop taking medicinal amounts at least 2 weeks before surgery, because of the effect on blood sugar.
• Buy only from trusted, licensed makers.

Overdose

Large amounts may cause constipation, stomach upset and, in people with diabetes, low blood sugar. Seek medical advice if a large amount is taken.

Therapeutic Class

Unani and Ayurvedic herbal preparation (antidiabetic herb).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.