Umeboshi plum is a misnomer. The term umeboshi means "dried ume," where ume is usually translated as plum. But it is not a plum. It is a species of apricot. It has several organic acids with medicinal effects, including the seemingly paradoxical effect of alkalizing the body.
1. Umeboshi has a high concentration (perhaps the highest concentration in any fruit) of citric acid. Citric acid enables the small intestine to absorb alkaline minerals from other foods that would otherwise not be absorbed. 2. Umeboshi itself contains high amounts of alkaline minerals (iron, calcium, potassium, manganese, etc.) 3. Citric acid breaks down lactic acid produced metabolically in our blood and tissues. 4. Umeboshi contains picric acid that stimulates and supports the detoxifying action of the liver. 5. Umeboshi contains catechin acid which speeds peristaltic action in the intestines as well as the digestion of proteins. 6. Umeboshi peel contains pectic acid which has a laxative effect. This information comes from the Kushi Institute. Matthew
