# Greengage (Prunus domestica subsp. italica)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/greengage
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-24
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Fruit
**Also Known As:** Prunus domestica subsp. italica, Reine-Claude plum, European plum, Green plum, Gage plum, Reine-Claude verte, Italian plum

## Overview

Greengage (Prunus domestica subsp. italica) is a heritage European plum variety containing 210 mg/100g phenolic compounds and 14.7g/100g sorbitol. These bioactive compounds demonstrate [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and natural laxative effects through osmotic mechanisms in the intestinal tract.

## Health Benefits

• High [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity from phenolic compounds (210 mg/100g), though only demonstrated in vitro studies
• Potential [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) support through LDL oxidation inhibition via chlorogenic acids, based on in vitro evidence only
• Natural laxative effects due to high sorbitol content (14.7g/100g dried), similar to related prune studies
• May support delayed glucose absorption through phenolic compounds, though human clinical data lacking
• Rich source of polyphenols including neochlorogenic acid (131 mg/100g) and chlorogenic acid (44 mg/100g), with theoretical but unproven health benefits

## Mechanism of Action

Chlorogenic acids in greengage inhibit [LDL cholesterol](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) oxidation by scavenging free radicals and chelating metal ions involved in [lipid peroxidation](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). The high sorbitol content acts as an osmotic laxative by drawing water into the intestinal lumen, softening stool and promoting peristalsis. Phenolic compounds activate antioxidant enzyme systems including superoxide dismutase and catalase.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence for greengage is limited to in vitro studies demonstrating [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity and LDL oxidation inhibition. No human clinical trials have been conducted specifically on greengage extract or consumption. The laxative effects are based on the established osmotic properties of sorbitol, which is well-documented in clinical literature for other sorbitol-containing fruits. Further human studies are needed to validate the [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) and antioxidant benefits observed in laboratory settings.

## Nutritional Profile

Greengage plums (fresh) provide approximately 46-52 kcal/100g with a macronutrient profile of 11-12g carbohydrates, 0.7g protein, and 0.3g fat per 100g. Dietary fiber content is approximately 1.4-1.7g/100g, comprising both soluble pectin fractions and insoluble cellulose. Sorbitol content in fresh greengages is estimated at 2-4g/100g (rising to ~14.7g/100g when dried), contributing to osmotic laxative effects. Micronutrient highlights include Vitamin C at approximately 5-7mg/100g (modest bioavailability, heat-sensitive), Vitamin K1 at approximately 6-7µg/100g, and Vitamin A precursors (beta-carotene) at approximately 190-210µg/100g. Potassium is the dominant mineral at approximately 157-172mg/100g, with smaller contributions from copper (0.06mg/100g), manganese (0.05mg/100g), and magnesium (7-9mg/100g). Bioactive phenolic compounds total approximately 210mg/100g fresh weight, dominated by chlorogenic acid (the primary hydroxycinnamic acid), neochlorogenic acid, and anthocyanins (lower than red/purple plum varieties due to greengage's pale flesh and skin). Rutin and quercetin glycosides are present at trace levels. Iron content is low (~0.17mg/100g) with limited bioavailability due to non-heme form. Note: Dried greengage data is extrapolated from related Prunus domestica subspecies; varietal-specific nutritional studies remain limited in peer-reviewed literature.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosages for greengage exist due to absence of human trials. Related prune studies suggest 50-100g dried fruit daily for laxative effects, but greengage-specific standardization has not been established. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Greengage consumption is generally safe for most individuals when eaten as food. High intake may cause gastrointestinal upset, including diarrhea and bloating, due to the sorbitol content exceeding individual tolerance thresholds. Individuals with fructose malabsorption or IBS may experience increased digestive symptoms. No specific drug interactions have been reported, though the fruit's fiber content may affect absorption timing of medications.

## Scientific Research

No human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses specific to greengage were identified. Research is limited to in vitro studies showing phenolic compounds can inhibit LDL oxidation, and compositional analyses revealing high [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) content compared to other plums.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Greengage has been cultivated for centuries in temperate regions primarily as food rather than medicine, with no documented use in traditional medicinal systems like Ayurveda or TCM. European cultures have valued plums generally for their sugar content, fiber, and mild laxative properties.

## Synergistic Combinations

Quercetin, Vitamin C, Green tea extract, Bilberry, Resveratrol

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much sorbitol is in greengage plums?

Greengage plums contain 14.7g sorbitol per 100g of fruit, which is significantly higher than many other stone fruits. This high sorbitol content contributes to the fruit's natural laxative properties.

### What antioxidants are found in greengage?

Greengage contains 210 mg/100g of phenolic compounds, primarily chlorogenic acids and flavonoids. These compounds demonstrate antioxidant activity in laboratory studies, though human benefits require further research.

### Can greengage help lower cholesterol?

In vitro studies show greengage chlorogenic acids can inhibit LDL cholesterol oxidation, but no human trials have confirmed cholesterol-lowering effects. More clinical research is needed to validate cardiovascular benefits.

### Are there side effects from eating greengage?

Excessive greengage consumption may cause digestive upset including diarrhea, gas, and bloating due to high sorbitol content. Individuals with IBS or fructose malabsorption should consume moderate amounts.

### How does greengage compare to regular plums nutritionally?

Greengage has higher sorbitol content (14.7g/100g) and phenolic compounds (210 mg/100g) compared to most commercial plum varieties. This gives greengage potentially stronger laxative and antioxidant properties than standard plums.

### Is greengage safe for people taking blood thinners or anticoagulant medications?

While greengage contains phenolic compounds with potential anticoagulant properties, current evidence is limited to in vitro studies and has not been clinically validated in humans. People taking warfarin, apixaban, or other anticoagulants should consult their healthcare provider before significantly increasing greengage consumption, as the interaction potential remains unclear. Moderation and consistent intake are important, as sudden increases in dietary phenolics may theoretically affect medication efficacy.

### Can children safely consume greengage, and are there age-specific considerations?

Greengage is generally safe for children and provides beneficial fiber and antioxidants; however, the high sorbitol content (14.7g/100g in dried form) may cause digestive discomfort or loose stools in young children if consumed in large quantities. Introducing greengage gradually and in age-appropriate portions (whole fresh fruit is safer than dried versions for younger children) helps minimize potential laxative effects. Whole fresh greengages are preferable to dried forms for children due to lower sorbitol concentration.

### How does the bioavailability of greengage phenolics change when the fruit is fresh versus dried or processed?

Fresh greengage retains higher water content and may have better bioavailability of heat-sensitive phenolic compounds compared to dried versions, though robust human absorption studies are lacking. Drying concentrates phenolic content by weight but may reduce some volatile antioxidants through oxidation and heat exposure. Processing methods like cooking or commercial drying can further degrade chlorogenic acid and other phenolics, potentially reducing the antioxidant benefits observed in in vitro studies.

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