Plum is a fruit that is related to the family of peaches and cherries. It is one of those fruits which are rich in dietary fiber that is effective in improving the digestive system. There are thousands of varieties of plums that are available throughout the world, ranging in colors like red, blue-black, purple, yellow, green or amber. Plums are believed to have originated in Asia and since then have been grown all over the world. The fresh and juicy taste of the plum makes it refreshing to eat on a hot summer day! To know about the immense health benefits and the nutritional value of plums, read on.

Plums are an excellent tree fruit that can be used either fresh, canned, frozen or preserved in jams and jellies. The trees are hardy and, if given reasonable care, can be expected to grow and produce well in the Northeast. There are few fruits that come in such a panorama of colors as the juicy sweet tasting plum.

The fresh version (plums) and the dried version (prunes) of the plant scientifically known as Prunus domestica have been the subject of repeated health research for their high content of unique phytonutrients called neochlorogenic and chlorogenic acid. These substances found in plum and prune are classified as phenols, and their function as antioxidants has been well-documented.