Fruit of Prunus americana

Medical Uses

Records indicate that Georgia’s slaves, once freed, used the bark of the tree to brew a tree to combat asthma. More contemporary uses revolve around the antioxidant-rich fruit however. Consuming a stable amount of antioxidants can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. Prunus americana offers healthy amounts of antioxidants, though is not readily thought of when searching for antioxidants. The fruits of this tree are high in vitamin C, which contains an antioxidant.  Plums and prunes also offer a good source of energy and simple sugars without an immediate rise in blood sugar concentration. The sweet fruits can serve as a laxative, and help prevent both diabetes and osteoporosis. For such diverse a range of uses Stacewicz labels them “an epitome of functional foods”.  In their dried form they can treat nausea, acid dyspepsia, and can reduce thirst. If soaked in water, the juice can remedy hypertension and hepatitis. The seeds however, contain cyanogenic glycosides, which are released when the cell membrane is broken. Therefore prunes that have not been properly processed can inherently cause cyanide poisoning if ingested.