Facts On Chinese Lantern Fruit Physalis
Physalis Fruit is called scientifically as “ Physalis peruviana ”.
Physalis Fruit is a tart berry, somewhat resembling a tomatillo, wrapped in a papery case. This papery wrapping gives it the look of a tiny Chinese lantern Fruit — hence the nickname.
Origin Of Chinese Lantern Fruit Physalis
The fruit is native to South American countries, including Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Chile.
Physalis is a genus of flowering plants in the nightshade family (Solanaceae), which grow in warm temperate and subtropical regions of the world.
Other Names Of Chinese Lantern Fruit Physalis
Groundcherry, goldenberry or poha berry.
• Aztec Berry
• Cape gooseberry
• Chinese lantern
• Goldenberry
• Peruvian ground berry
Many Physalis species are called ground cherries. One name for Physalis peruviana is Inca berry; another is Cape gooseberry, though unrelated to gooseberries of the genus Ribes (family Grossulariaceae). Other names used to refer to the fruit are husk cherries, poha berries, and golden berries.
Appearance Of Chinese Lantern Fruit Physalis
The physalis fruit is a small berry, with a smooth, globular green outer skin when raw which turns smooth, waxy, orange-yellow skin and juicy pulp containing numerous very small yellowish seeds. As the fruits ripen, they begin to drop to the ground, but will continue to mature and change from green to the golden-yellow of the mature fruit and has a slightly sweet, tangy, juicy flavor.
Tastes Of Chinese Lantern Fruit Physalis
Strawberries or pineapple in flavor, with a mild acidity.
Varieties Of Chinese Lantern Fruit Physalis
The best Physalis peruviana varieties:
• Heitmann
• Inca Plum
• Lady Madonna
• Little Lanterns
• Preciosa
• Schönbrunner Gold
Nutritional Content Of Chinese Lantern Fruit Physalis
100 g edible portion – Nutrients Quantity( per 100 g) Nutrients Quantity(per 100 g)
1. Energy 222kJ (53kcal)
2. Carbohydrates 11.2 g
3. Fat 0.7 g
4. Protein 1.9 g
5. Vitamin A 36 μg (5%)
6. Thiamine(vit.) 0.11 mg (10%)
7. Riboflavin (vit. B2) 0.04 mg (3%)
8. Niacin (vit. B3) 2.8 mg (19%)
9. Vitamin C 11 mg (13%)
10. Calcium 9 mg (1%)
11. Iron 1 mg (8%)
12. Phosphorus 40 mg (6%)
Facts On Chinese Lantern Fruit Physalis
Enhances Vision
Person struggling with vision at night ,are advices to consume physalis which is full of vitamin A, that maintains and improve your eye health. Rhodopsin is also found in physalis and it helps us to see in low light situations.
Increases Cognitive Skills
The abundance of vitamin C present in physalis fruit helps delay the formation of amyloid plaque in the cognitive pathways. Vitamin C can help maintain healthy cognition, focus and memory.
Fortifies Bone Health
Eating physalis fruit can help you meet your daily calcium needs that is essential in building and maintaining bone mass. Calcium also plays a important role in body functions such as: Muscle contraction, Regulating heart rhythm, Hormone production.
Treats Joints
Physalis fruit contain a chemical called niacin, or vitamin B3, which can increase blood flow to certain parts of the body. They can therefore help joint mobility and reduce joint pain, making it a useful food for people with arthritis.
Prevents Cancer
Amounts of antioxidants in Physalis fruit such as phenol constituents and withanolides, effectively shield the healthy cells and tissues from oxidative free radical damage, thereby lowering inflammation in the tissues and averting the risk of cancer.
Protects Liver
Research conducted on Physalis root along with hepato-renal protecting effects against fibrosis. The chemical composition of the plant root suggested the presence of alkaloids, withanolides and flavonoids. The results suggested safe administration, and improvement of fibrosis disease.
Healthy Pregnancy
Iron content which is extremely found high in the fruit is good for pregnant Women. A pregnant woman requires around 27 mg of iron daily. Iron contained in Physalis can provide you a supportable boost of iron all through your day.
Improves Heart Function
Physalis is loaded with Viamin B1 (Thiamin). This vitamin is liable for the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter which transmits messages towards the muscles and nerves.
Supports Digestion
The high content of pectin in physalis fruit makes it perfect for making jams and jellies, but pectin is also a good source of fiber. Dietary fiber helps move food through your large intestine (colon) to prevent constipation.