# Umeboshi (Prunus mume)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/umeboshi
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-23
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Fermented/Probiotic
**Also Known As:** Prunus mume, Japanese plum, Chinese plum, Ume, Mume, Japanese apricot, Mei, Bainiku

## Overview

Umeboshi is a traditional Japanese fermented plum (Prunus mume) whose bioactive compound prunate has demonstrated up to 96% inhibition of specific cancer cell lines in vitro at 100 µg/mL. Its health effects are also linked to organic acids such as citric acid and malic acid, which may support [digestion](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) and alkalizing metabolic processes.

## Health Benefits

["\u2022 May exhibit anticancer activity against specific cancer cell lines, based on *in vitro* research where the isolated compound prunate showed 81\u201396% inhibition at a concentration of 100 \u03bcg/mL.[2] (Evidence: *In vitro*)", "\u2022 May inhibit the proliferation and induce apoptosis in solid and hematological tumor cells, as suggested by *in vitro* studies on *P. mume* extracts, though specific human data is lacking.[3] (Evidence: *In vitro*)", "\u2022 May possess antioxidant effects by attenuating [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) via activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, as observed in *in vitro* studies on C2C12 myoblasts.[3] (Evidence: *In vitro*)", "\u2022 May offer selective action against cancer cells while having minimal impact on normal cells, as one *in vitro* study found that the compound prunate caused \u226423% growth inhibition in normal cells at 100 \u03bcg/mL.[2] (Evidence: *In vitro*)", "\u2022 Traditionally used in Japanese medicine as an alkaline food to help remove lactic and pyruvic acids from the blood.[5] (Evidence: Traditional Use)"]

## Mechanism of Action

Prunate, an isolated compound from Prunus mume, appears to induce apoptosis and inhibit cancer cell proliferation by disrupting cell cycle progression and activating caspase-mediated apoptotic pathways. The high concentration of citric acid in umeboshi may enhance the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, supporting cellular [energy metabolism](/ingredients/condition/energy) and potentially reducing lactic acid accumulation in muscle tissue. Additionally, the fermentation process generates bioactive polyphenols, including chlorogenic acid, which may modulate NF-κB signaling to exert [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects.

## Clinical Summary

The majority of evidence supporting umeboshi's anticancer properties comes from in vitro studies, where prunate demonstrated 81–96% inhibition of specific cancer cell lines at a concentration of 100 µg/mL, limiting direct extrapolation to human outcomes. Animal studies have suggested potential benefits for [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) and [blood glucose](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) regulation, though these models do not confirm equivalent efficacy in humans. Limited small-scale human studies have explored its role in [digestive health](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) and Helicobacter pylori inhibition, but sample sizes are generally too small to establish definitive clinical recommendations. Overall, the evidence base is preliminary and largely preclinical, necessitating well-designed randomized controlled trials before therapeutic claims can be validated.

## Nutritional Profile

Umeboshi (salt-pickled Prunus mume fruit) provides a distinct nutritional profile shaped by both the raw fruit and the fermentation/pickling process. Per 100g of umeboshi paste/pickled fruit: Calories ~33 kcal; Carbohydrates ~9g (primarily organic acids and sugars); Protein ~0.9g; Fat ~0.2g; Dietary fiber ~3.6g. Sodium is exceptionally high at ~8,700–22,000mg/100g depending on preparation, making it one of the saltiest traditional foods. Key organic acids dominate the bioactive profile: citric acid (~3.4–5.2g/100g) is the primary compound and responsible for the characteristic sour taste; malic acid (~0.5–1.2g/100g); succinic acid; and oxalic acid in smaller amounts. Citric acid in this form demonstrates high bioavailability and is rapidly absorbed in the small intestine, contributing to the Krebs cycle and [energy metabolism](/ingredients/condition/energy). Minerals include potassium (~440mg/100g), calcium (~65mg/100g), magnesium (~17mg/100g), iron (~1.0mg/100g), phosphorus (~15mg/100g), and manganese (~0.26mg/100g); however, bioavailability of minerals may be modestly reduced by the high sodium content and oxalic acid presence. Vitamins present include vitamin E (tocopherols, ~0.6mg/100g), small amounts of B vitamins including niacin (~0.5mg/100g) and riboflavin (~0.05mg/100g), and trace vitamin A as beta-carotene (~4–6μg/100g). Key bioactive compounds include: polyphenols such as chlorogenic acid, neochlorogenic acid, and rutin predominantly in the skin; benzaldehyde glycosides including amygdalin and prunasin in the seed/pit (which can release hydrogen cyanide — the pit is not typically consumed); mumefural, a unique furanone compound formed during processing with demonstrated platelet aggregation inhibitory activity; oleanolic acid and ursolic acid (pentacyclic triterpenes) at approximately 0.1–0.3% dry weight of the fruit skin, with limited oral bioavailability (~1–3%) due to poor aqueous solubility though enhanced by food-matrix lipids; prunatin and other flavonoid glycosides; and the isolated compound prunate (mumeate), a pyruvate derivative showing anticancer activity in vitro. The fermentation process with salt and sometimes red shiso leaves (Perilla frutescens) generates additional bioactive metabolites including lactic acid bacteria metabolites and shiso-derived anthocyanins (primarily rosinidin) when red shiso is used. Bioavailability of polyphenols is moderate and enhanced by the acidic pH environment of umeboshi itself, which stabilizes anthocyanins and may improve absorption in the upper GI tract.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges for Umeboshi or its extracts have been established in humans, as all evidence is preclinical. Laboratory studies have used concentrations of isolated compounds like prunate at 39–100 μg/mL, but this does not translate to a human dose. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Umeboshi is generally regarded as safe when consumed in typical dietary amounts, but its very high sodium content—often exceeding 700 mg per single plum—poses a concern for individuals with hypertension, kidney disease, or those on sodium-restricted diets. Individuals taking anticoagulants such as warfarin should exercise caution, as the high vitamin K content in some preparations may interfere with drug efficacy. The significant acidity from citric and malic acid may exacerbate symptoms in individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or peptic ulcers. Pregnant women should limit intake due to the high sodium load, and no established safe supplemental dosage exists for pediatric or pregnant populations.

## Scientific Research

No human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), or meta-analyses on Umeboshi (*Prunus mume* fruit) were identified in the provided research dossier. The available scientific evidence is limited to preclinical *in vitro* (cell-based) studies, for which no PMIDs for human trials were available.[2][3]

## Historical & Cultural Context

For centuries, Umeboshi has been a staple in Japanese traditional medicine, used as an alkaline food and in home remedies like plum balls and concentrates (bainiku ekisu). It is prized in East Asian culture for its perceived anti-bacterial, anti-oxidative, and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties.[3][5]

## Synergistic Combinations

Green Tea Extract, Turmeric (Curcumin), Ginger Root

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is prunate and why is it important in umeboshi?

Prunate is a bioactive compound isolated from Prunus mume (umeboshi) that has shown 81–96% inhibition of specific cancer cell lines in in vitro studies at a concentration of 100 µg/mL. It is considered one of the primary compounds responsible for umeboshi's potential anticancer properties, though these findings have not yet been confirmed in human clinical trials.

### How much sodium is in umeboshi and is it safe to eat daily?

A single umeboshi plum can contain upward of 700–900 mg of sodium, which represents a significant portion of the recommended daily limit of 2,300 mg for healthy adults. Daily consumption is generally considered safe for healthy individuals in small amounts, but people with hypertension, chronic kidney disease, or those on low-sodium diets should significantly limit or avoid regular intake.

### Can umeboshi help with digestion?

Umeboshi is traditionally used in Japanese medicine to support digestion, and its organic acid content—particularly citric and malic acid—may stimulate saliva and gastric juice production, potentially aiding nutrient breakdown. Small studies have also suggested that compounds in Prunus mume may inhibit Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium associated with gastric ulcers, though large-scale human trials are lacking.

### Does umeboshi have anti-inflammatory properties?

Umeboshi contains polyphenols such as chlorogenic acid, which have been shown in preclinical studies to modulate inflammatory pathways including NF-κB signaling, potentially reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine production. However, these effects have primarily been demonstrated in cell and animal models, and robust human clinical data confirming meaningful anti-inflammatory benefits at typical dietary doses are currently insufficient.

### Is umeboshi the same as a regular plum supplement?

Umeboshi is not the same as a standard plum supplement; it is specifically made from Prunus mume fruit that has been fermented and salt-cured for weeks to months, a process that significantly alters its phytochemical profile and concentrates organic acids and certain bioactive compounds. Standard plum or prune supplements are typically derived from Prunus domestica and have a different nutrient and polyphenol composition, making the two products pharmacologically distinct.

### What is the difference between umeboshi paste, umeboshi extract, and dried umeboshi fruit?

Umeboshi paste is the traditional fermented whole-fruit preparation with salt and herbs, offering the full spectrum of compounds including prunate and beneficial bacteria from fermentation. Umeboshi extract is a concentrated liquid form designed for easier dosing and faster absorption, though it may lack some fermentation-derived probiotics. Dried umeboshi fruit is less processed and retains whole-food integrity but contains higher sodium concentration per serving and may be less convenient for daily consumption.

### Is umeboshi safe for children, and what dosage would be appropriate?

Umeboshi is generally safe for children in small amounts due to its natural origin and traditional use in Japanese pediatric nutrition, though the high sodium content requires moderation. Children under 5 should consume no more than ½ teaspoon of paste diluted in water or food daily, while older children can tolerate up to 1 teaspoon, always diluted to reduce sodium intake. Parents should introduce umeboshi gradually and consult a pediatrician if the child has existing hypertension or kidney concerns.

### How does the fermentation process in umeboshi affect its nutrient profile and health benefits compared to non-fermented plum products?

Fermentation in umeboshi creates beneficial organic acids, bacteriocins, and enhances bioavailability of minerals like potassium and magnesium, which are largely absent in non-fermented plum products. The fermentation process increases prunate concentration and generates live Lactobacillus cultures that support gut microbiota, whereas non-fermented plum supplements lack these probiotic compounds. Traditional umeboshi aged 1–3 years develops superior enzyme activity and antimicrobial properties compared to fresh or minimally processed plum alternatives.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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