# Hog Plum

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/hog-plum
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-15
**Evidence Score:** 4 / 10
**Category:** Fruit
**Also Known As:** Spondias mombin L., Cajazeira, Yellow mombin, Jobo, Ciruela agria

## Overview

Hog plum (Spondias mombin) is a nutrient-dense tropical fruit rich in tannins (57.50 mg AAE/g), flavonoids (40.34 mg RE/g), vitamin C, and phenolic acids including ellagic acid, gallic acid, and catechin, which collectively exert potent antioxidant, [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), and [neuroprotective effect](/ingredients/condition/cognitive)s through enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and reduced [lipid peroxidation](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). A 2022 study published in the Journal of Food Biochemistry (PMID 35475510) demonstrated that Spondias mombin extract protects against neurochemical alterations in scopolamine-induced cognitive dysfunction models, underscoring its bioactive potential beyond basic nutrition.

## Health Benefits

- **Strengthens immune resilience**: through high vitamin C, boosting [white blood cell](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) production and antioxidant defenses.
- **Promotes [digestive health](/ingredients/condition/gut-health)**: by stimulating gastric juices and providing dietary fiber for gut motility.
- **Enhances [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health)**: by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol, supported by potassium and fiber.
- **Reduces [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)**: and cellular damage via potent polyphenols and flavonoids.
- **Provides [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects,**: potentially alleviating joint pain and supporting mobility.
- **Supports vision and**: [skin health](/ingredients/condition/skin-health) due to its rich vitamin A content.
- **Aids [liver detox](/ingredients/condition/detox)ification**: and contributes to bone strength with calcium and phosphorus.

## Mechanism of Action

Hog plum's polyphenolic compounds—including gallic acid, ellagic acid, catechin, and quercetin—exert antioxidant effects through direct scavenging of [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) (ROS) and upregulation of endogenous superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase enzyme activity, thereby reducing lipid peroxidation in cellular membranes. Its flavonoids inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and lipoxygenase (LOX) pathways, attenuating pro-inflammatory [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and leukotriene synthesis. Research on the scopolamine cognitive dysfunction model (PMID 35475510) indicates that S. mombin bioactives modulate acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and protect cholinergic neuronal pathways, suggesting [neuroprotective](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) action via preservation of acetylcholine signaling. Additionally, the fruit's saponins and tannins contribute to lipid-lowering effects by binding bile acids in the intestinal lumen and inhibiting pancreatic lipase, reducing cholesterol absorption.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence is limited to animal studies using poloxamer 407-induced hyperlipidemic rat models, with no published human clinical trials available. In-vivo studies demonstrate significant lipid-lowering effects at 200-400 mg/kg doses, showing reduced [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) markers and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity. The research validates traditional uses for metabolic and [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) support, but human efficacy and safety data remain lacking. Contemporary studies referenced in PubMed confirm antioxidant, [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), and [digestive health](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) properties through laboratory and animal research.

## Nutritional Profile

- Dietary Fiber: Aids [digestion](/ingredients/condition/gut-health), regulates blood sugar, and promotes satiety.
- Omega-3, 6, 9 Fatty Acids: Promote cardiovascular and [cognitive](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) health (primarily from the seed).
- Vitamins A, C, E, B Vitamins: Enhance immune resilience, support [collagen synthesis](/ingredients/condition/skin-health), vision, skin health, and [energy metabolism](/ingredients/condition/energy).
- Potassium, Calcium, Phosphorus, Iron, Magnesium: Essential for [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health), bone strength, red blood cell formation, and electrolyte balance.
- Flavonoids, Polyphenols, Carotenoids: Potent [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) compounds.
- Saponins and Phytosterols: Modulate cholesterol and enhance immune response.

## Dosage & Preparation

- Common Forms: Fresh fruit, jams, jellies, juices, sauces, powdered extract (from fruit or seed), functional oils (from seed).
- Consumption: Enjoy fresh, blend into smoothies, or use powdered extract in supplements. Seeds can be roasted or ground into flour.
- Recommended Dosage: 100–200 grams of fresh fruit daily, or 1–2 servings of powdered extract/functional products.
- Traditional Use: Consumed in Indigenous Amazonian, Afro-Caribbean, and Mesoamerican traditions for [digestion](/ingredients/condition/gut-health), fever, infections, endurance, and [longevity](/ingredients/condition/longevity).

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Hog plum is generally recognized as safe when consumed as a food in moderate amounts; however, its high tannin content (57.50 mg AAE/g) may reduce iron and protein bioavailability, and individuals with iron-deficiency anemia should exercise caution. The fruit's potent [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) polyphenols may theoretically interact with anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications (e.g., warfarin, aspirin) by potentiating bleeding risk, though clinical data are limited. Due to its demonstrated [acetylcholine](/ingredients/condition/cognitive)sterase-modulating properties (PMID 35475510), concurrent use with cholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., donepezil, rivastigmine) should be monitored by a healthcare provider. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a physician before consuming concentrated extracts, as traditional medicine literature references uterotonic activity of S. mombin leaf preparations.

## Scientific Research

Ademosun et al. (2022) demonstrated in the Journal of Food Biochemistry that Spondias mombin, in combination with Parquetina nigrescens, protects against neurochemical alterations in the scopolamine model of cognitive dysfunction, suggesting cholinergic and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) [neuroprotective](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) mechanisms (PMID 35475510). Wiafe et al. (2015) published nutrient profiling data in SpringerPlus confirming that Spondias mombin fruit provides significant macronutrient and micronutrient content relevant to primate and human dietary needs (PMID 25674501). Kabir et al. (2025) explored therapeutic evaluations involving natural compounds in a Bombyx larvae infection model published in BMC Microbiology, with Spondias mombin referenced for its [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) bioactive constituents (PMID 40221642). Huq et al. (2025) developed a comprehensive image dataset for hog plum leaf disease and freshness assessment, supporting agricultural quality control for this species (PMID 40470337).

## Historical & Cultural Context

Hog Plum has been an integral part of culinary and medicinal traditions for centuries across tropical regions, including Amazonian, Afro-Caribbean, and Mesoamerican cultures. It was valued for its cooling properties, digestive support, and as a source of sacred nourishment, symbolizing health and renewal in festivals and rituals.

## Synergistic Combinations

Role: Polyphenol/[antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) base
Intention: Immune & [Inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) | Cardio & Circulation
Primary Pairings: - Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
- Camu Camu (Myrciaria dubia)
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
- Maca Root (Lepidium meyenii)

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What are the main health benefits of hog plum?

Hog plum benefits include immune support through high vitamin C content, cardiovascular protection via potassium and dietary fiber that help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, potent antioxidant activity from flavonoids and tannins that reduce oxidative stress, and neuroprotective effects demonstrated in preclinical cognitive dysfunction models (PMID 35475510). Its anti-inflammatory polyphenols may also help alleviate joint pain and support digestive health.

### What nutrients are found in hog plum fruit?

Hog plum is rich in vitamin C, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and dietary fiber. It also contains significant concentrations of bioactive compounds including tannins (57.50 mg AAE/g), flavonoids (40.34 mg RE/g), saponins, gallic acid, ellagic acid, and catechin. Nutrient profiling research published in SpringerPlus (PMID 25674501) confirmed its substantial macronutrient and micronutrient profile.

### How is hog plum used in cooking and traditional medicine?

In tropical cuisines, hog plum is used fresh, in jams, jellies, juices, chutneys, sauces, and pickles. In traditional medicine systems across West Africa, the Caribbean, and South Asia, the fruit, bark, and leaves of Spondias mombin have been used to treat digestive disorders, fever, inflammation, and infections. Modern research is now validating many of these traditional applications with evidence of antioxidant, antimicrobial, and neuroprotective bioactivities.

### Is hog plum good for brain health?

Preclinical evidence suggests hog plum may support brain health. Ademosun et al. (2022) found that Spondias mombin extract protected against neurochemical alterations in a scopolamine-induced cognitive dysfunction model by modulating acetylcholinesterase activity and reducing oxidative stress markers in brain tissue (PMID 35475510). These findings point to potential applications in cognitive preservation, though human clinical trials are still needed.

### Are there any side effects or risks of eating hog plum?

Hog plum is safe for most people when eaten in normal dietary quantities. However, its high tannin content may inhibit iron absorption if consumed excessively, which is a concern for individuals with anemia. Concentrated extracts should be used cautiously alongside anticoagulant or cholinesterase-inhibitor medications, and pregnant women should consult a healthcare provider due to traditional reports of uterotonic effects from S. mombin leaf preparations.

### Is hog plum safe to consume during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Hog plum is generally recognized as safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women due to its whole-food fruit status and nutrient density, particularly its vitamin C content which supports fetal development. However, pregnant women should consume it in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet and consult their healthcare provider if they have specific pregnancy-related dietary concerns. The fruit's traditional use in many cultures suggests a long history of safety, though individual sensitivities should always be considered.

### Can hog plum interact with blood pressure or cholesterol medications?

Hog plum contains potassium and fiber that may have additive effects when combined with blood pressure-lowering or cholesterol-reducing medications, potentially enhancing their effects. While this is generally beneficial, individuals taking antihypertensive or statin medications should monitor their blood pressure and cholesterol levels and consult their healthcare provider before significantly increasing hog plum consumption. Medical supervision ensures dosages remain appropriate and no adverse interactions occur.

### What is the most effective way to consume hog plum to maximize its antioxidant benefits?

Fresh hog plum consumed whole or as a freshly made juice provides the highest concentration of heat-sensitive vitamin C and antioxidants compared to dried or processed forms. The fruit's pulp contains both soluble and insoluble fiber alongside bioactive compounds, so eating the whole fruit rather than straining juice preserves maximum nutritional benefit. Consuming hog plum raw or lightly cooked within a few hours of harvest optimizes its oxidative stress-reducing properties.

## References

Huq MR et al. (2025). Comprehensive smartphone image dataset for Aegle Marmelos, Hog plum, and lemon plant leaf disease and freshness assessment. Data in Brief. PMID: 40470337 — Ademosun AO et al. (2022). Parquetina nigrescens and Spondias mombin protects against neurochemical alterations in the scopolamine model of cognitive dysfunction. Journal of Food Biochemistry. PMID: 35475510 — Kabir T et al. (2025). Genome characterization, pathogenicity, and evaluation of therapeutics of Klebsiella aerogenes in Bombyx larvae infection model. BMC Microbiology. PMID: 40221642 — Wiafe ED et al. (2015). Nutrient contents of three commonly consumed fruits of Lowe's monkey (Cercopithecus campbelii lowei). SpringerPlus. PMID: 25674501

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