Physalis: health benefits and harms

Physalis is a member of the nightshade family. This product has "family ties" with tomatoes, potatoes and other garden crops. The physalis shrub is quite beautiful, the orange fruits are hidden in green boxes and resemble Chinese lanterns.

What is physalis and where does it grow

The physalis fruit is a smooth, round, small orange-yellow berry that is encased in a green husk. The plant itself has a height of 60–90 cm, and sometimes can reach 150 cm. Physalis grows best in sunny places from June to August. The plant and its fruits have alternative names. For example, you can often hear such names - cape gooseberry or golden berry.

This culture came to the European continent from South and Central America. Physalis can be seen growing in the wild, as reproduction occurs self-sowing. It is distributed in the territories of Mexico, Guatemala, Peru, Venezuela and Colombia. In this part of the globe, many varieties are bred that are very well adapted to the conditions of plains and mountains.

Kinds

There are about 120 different types of physalis. The largest number of species grows in Central American countries. The plant is usually divided into two types - decorative and edible. The former often act as decorations for homestead flower beds, and they can also be used for bouquets. These include varieties such as "Chinese lantern", "Longifolia", "Alkekengi."

If we talk about edible varieties, then they can be divided into 2 groups - berry and vegetable. In berry varieties, the fruits are quite small, they have a sweet taste, and also have a rather pleasant aroma. Vegetable varieties have large fruits, medium taste.

How to distinguish decorative physalis from edible

The decorative variety has large boxes, but small nondescript berries. Edible varieties have a less attractive appearance, but they have a larger, juicy orange fruit, which is similar to a tomato.

Composition and calorie content

100 g of product contain:

• calories - 32 kcal;
• proteins - 1 g;
• fats - 1 g;
• carbohydrates - 3.9 g.

Fruits are also rich in nutrients such as vitamins A, B1, B2, B3 and C, phosphorus, calcium, manganese, copper, selenium, zinc, potassium, magnesium and iron.

Useful properties of physalis

General benefit

1. Supports cardiovascular health. Vitamin B1, contained in the physalis, is responsible for the production of acetylcholine - a compound that supports communication between nerves and muscles. Vitamin B1 deficiency can reduce acetylcholine production, which makes the heartbeat irregular. Sometimes stagnation can even occur, which increases the risk of heart failure. The regular use of physalis fruits normalizes and supports the work of the heart, thereby helping to cope with the stresses on this organ.
2. Improves blood flow. Physalis contains vitamin B3 - niacin, which improves blood flow, especially in places where there is stagnation or impaired functionality. In addition to the fact that physalis supports the blood circulation, it is also able to reduce pain.Therefore, instead of taking vitamin B3 as part of medications or tablets, it is recommended to use the fruits of physalis, which saturate the body with vital substances, including niacin.
3. Controls weight. Physalis refers to low-calorie foods. Fruits are a rich source of nutrients, which are especially necessary for people who are on a diet or maintaining physical fitness. This product contains a lot of fiber and carbohydrates, which will help to fill the body with energy and keep it in good shape.
4. Supports vision. Physalis contains vitamin A. This vitamin is an important component for maintaining healthy eyes and, therefore, vision, helps to avoid age-related disorders. For example, this product will help prevent night blindness, cataracts and macular degeneration.
5. Useful during pregnancy. Iron is a mineral that is essential for the health of mother and baby. The pregnant woman's need for iron is approximately 27 mg. Physalis contains a sufficient amount of this element to maintain balance during this period. Besides the fact that the berry will make up for iron loss, it will also help protect the body and strengthen immunity.
6. Supports and improves cognitive function. Physalis is rich in antioxidants, in particular it contains vitamin C, which helps get rid of harmful deposits and fights free radicals. Eating physalis on a regular basis will help get rid of oxidative stress. In addition, physalis is very useful in the recovery of cognitive impairment, for example, in dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
7. It treats laryngitis and flu. The physalis fruit has a large number of medicinal properties. Among other things, it is very effective in treating laryngitis and flu. On the basis of physalis, you can make various tinctures and drinks that will help get rid of colds and infectious diseases.
8. Prevents fibrosis in the kidneys and liver. Physalis contains alkaloids - flavonoids and andanolides. These are substances that help prevent the onset of fibrosis in the liver and kidneys. In addition, the regular use of physalis will contribute to improving the condition during the course of this disease.
9. It treats hepatitis, asthma and cancer. Physalis as a plant and fruit is useful in malaria, rheumatism, hepatitis, cancer, asthma and dermatitis. Repeated studies show that physalis extracts contain ethanol, which is responsible for the suppression of all these diseases.
10. Useful for diabetes. Physalis is often used as a preventive and protective agent against diabetes. As a rule, a fresh plant is used to treat diabetes, from which infusions or decoctions are made.
11. Supports cell repair process. According to studies, physalis contains a large complex of vitamins that the body needs for normal life. One of the main beneficial properties of physalis is that this product is involved in the processes associated with cell restoration.
12. Strengthens the immune system. Vitamin C, found in physalis, helps strengthen the immune system. Regular use of physalis will help the immune system more efficiently cope with its work, make it stronger. In addition, the body’s ability to fight viruses will improve qualitatively.
13. It fights cancer cells. Physalis contains ananolides. These are organic compounds that belong to antioxidants and can act as anti-inflammatory substances. They help the body fight cancer cells and slow down their production rate. Although the effect of this compound is not as effective as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, but, of course, regular use of physalis will help the body fight the disease.
14. It has anti-inflammatory properties. Physalis can act, among other things, and as an anti-inflammatory agent.Regular use of this product helps fight various inflammations, especially in blood vessels, which, in turn, reduces hypertension.
15. Accelerates wound healing. Vitamin C, present in physalis, in addition to strengthening immunity, has other beneficial properties. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties support the production of collagen tissues and help wound healing. Also, this vitamin preserves youthfulness and elasticity of the skin.
16. Lowers blood pressure. The anti-inflammatory agents and antioxidants present in physalis help get rid of excess cholesterol in the blood vessels, which helps lower blood pressure.

For women

Physalis has a positive effect on the female body. A decoction based on the roots of this plant is used as a medicine in cases of irregularities during menstruation. Fruits have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, so they are very useful for inflammation of the genital organs. For example, in the case of cystitis, pyelonephritis or urolithiasis, physalis can speed up the treatment process. In order to feel the effect of this product, as well as protect the body from various kinds of inflammation, it is recommended to use it on a regular basis.

In addition, the fruits of physalis can sometimes be seen in the diet menu, and for good reason, because it contains a very small amount of calories. The low calorie content of the product allows women on a diet to safely include this product in their diet without fear of gaining extra pounds.

For men

Physalis is useful for both women and men. It has a positive effect on men's health. The powerful anti-inflammatory effect that this product possesses plays a significant role in reducing the risk of the onset and progression of diseases of the genitourinary system. Fruits contain substances that help a man's body maintain a balance of energy distribution, which allows you to feel fullness and strength in all areas. It is worth noting a very important point - physalis has practically no contraindications, so it can be safely included in the diet.

During pregnancy

Physalis has a number of useful properties that have a beneficial effect on the body of a pregnant woman. Vitamin C, contained in it, helps to increase the body's defense mechanisms to infectious diseases and colds. Acids, including nicotinic, help maintain cholesterol balance. And vitamin B1 has a positive effect on the central nervous system and the brain activity of women. Potassium acts as a prevention of puffiness, which occurs, as a rule, in the late months of pregnancy. Pectin helps to more effectively remove toxins from the body and facilitates the work of the intestines, normalizes the stool of a pregnant woman. Beta-carotene is especially necessary during pregnancy, as it supports the normal development of the fetus.

For kids

Physalis is a natural multivitamin that can cause allergic reactions, so this product should not be included in the diet of children under 3 years old. Starting from 3 years old, a physalis can be given to a child slowly, but it is necessary to monitor its reaction. To answer the question - at what age a physalis can be given to a child, only a doctor can, since this largely depends on individual characteristics. As a rule, a vegetable is prescribed if the child has no contraindications.

If we talk about the benefits of this product for a child, it is worth noting that the greatest effect can be obtained in case of weakened immunity, vitamin deficiency, bronchitis, laryngitis, stomatitis. It is recommended that children be given physalis during the recovery period after an illness. In any case, excessive consumption of this product can lead to negative side effects.

When losing weight

Physalis is a low-calorie product, so it is recommended to use it during the period of weight loss.The only point worth paying attention to is the number of fruits eaten, since in case of overeating, the risks of allergies increase or individual intolerance may occur. The daily norm for an adult is 1-2 fetuses. To make the effect of the product more noticeable, you should eat fresh vegetables.

Another positive point is that physalis contains few fats and carbohydrates. Candied foods are more high in calories and contain more fast carbohydrates, so it’s better not to eat them during weight loss. It is forbidden to do mono-diets on physalis, as this can disrupt the functioning of the stomach, liver and gall bladder.

Is dried physalis healthy?

As a rule, dried vegetables and fruits have quite a few beneficial properties. Dried physalis is no exception. It contains a large number of vital minerals and vitamins.

Benefit:

1. The presence of antioxidants. Dried physalis fruits are rich in antioxidants. They help prevent free radicals from entering the body.
2. Anti-aging properties. Dried physalis can be used as an anti-aging product for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and prolonging youth. It can also be soaked and added to homemade face masks. Such a mask will nourish the skin, which is especially important in the winter.
3. Anti-inflammatory properties. Dried fruits can help get rid of swelling and inflammation.
4. Antibacterial properties. Regular use of dried physalis will protect against bacterial infections.
5. The presence of fiber. The use of a dried product contributes to the replacement of dietary fiber. Fiber will help improve the digestive tract, prevent the occurrence of digestive disorders.
6. Support skin health. Substances contained in physalis help prevent skin inflammation.
7. Strengthening the immune system. The substances contained in this dried product contribute to the healing of the body and help prevent flu and colds.
8. Detoxification of the body. Dried physalis fruits help remove toxins from the body. It is a natural means of detoxification.

Physalis in medicine

Physalis refers to those products that are not used in official medicine, however, at the same time, the study of the medicinal properties of this vegetable was nevertheless carried out. It is known that physalis is able to beneficially affect the genitourinary system, and can also be useful as a wound healing agent. Experts indicate that this product is acceptable on the menu and is even useful for people suffering from diabetes, hypertension, chronic cholecystitis, gastritis and gastric ulcer. Fruits larger than average can be eaten in an amount of 3–8 pieces, and smaller than average - 9–15 pieces. The recommended time of use is 10-15 minutes before a meal. In case of increased acidity of the stomach, the norm should be reduced by 2 times.

Physalis is also allowed to use for problems with the gastrointestinal tract, in cases of diarrhea and hypertension, or as a general restorative. This product has a beneficial effect on the female body, as it reduces inflammation of the reproductive organs, helps with cystitis, urolithiasis and pyelonephritis.

Despite the fact that physalis is not officially a medicinal product, it is widely used in traditional medicine. For example, in Bulgaria, decoctions based on physalis are used in case of problems with the stomach and intestines, the urethra, and also with hemorrhoids. In Central Asian countries, physalis acts as a medicine against constipation, anemia and hypertension, and juice is used to treat tonsillitis.

Harm and contraindications

Physalis contains a large amount of antioxidants, which makes it a useful health product. But I must say that too much antioxidants can damage healthy body cells. It is also worth noting that with individual intolerance, the use of the product can adversely affect health. Here are some contraindications to physalis:

• bleeding disorders;
• low blood sugar;
• the period of taking drugs that lower blood pressure.

Sometimes the use of physalis can cause drowsiness, so you should not eat this product while driving or while working with potentially dangerous equipment.

Unripe fruits contain solanine, a compound that can be toxic. In case of peptic ulcer or thyroid problems, you should also be careful when using the product. Excessive intake of physalis fruits can lead to breathing difficulties or diarrhea.

How to store physalis

Keep this product in a cool, dry place. It is advisable to place it in small boxes with holes (for ventilation) or in grate boxes that can hold up to three kilograms of fruit. Storage temperature should be between 12-14C. Ripe fruits can be stored in this form for about 2 months. Unripe fruits are allowed to be stored longer.

If the temperature is above normal, then the product spoils much faster. For example, at 25C, physalis matures in 2 weeks.

Periodically, the fruits must be sorted out, discarding spoiled products.

How to eat physalis

Before using this product, it must be thoroughly washed and the adhesive removed from the peel. To do this, pour physalis with boiling water (for 4-5 minutes). It is worth noting that this method is only suitable for vegetable physalis. Berry varieties can be consumed right after harvesting from the bushes. Physalis can be eaten raw, dried, candied, salted, soaked and pickled. Fruits can be stewed, fried and baked. Vegetable varieties are suitable for the manufacture of salads (meat, vegetable and fruit), side dishes, caviar, sauces, mashed potatoes, casseroles. They can also be used as an ingredient in various dishes, such as soup, borsch, pickle and cabbage soup.

Physalis juice can act as a seasoning for fish and meat dishes. It is also used in the preparation of pickles and pickles. It is suitable for pickling and canning. In addition, on its basis you can cook various desserts and drinks. Dried physalis can be replaced with raisins or dried apricots.

How much can you eat per day

The daily intake of physalis is considered from 4 to 8 fruits. For people with high acidity, the intake of physalis should be limited to several fruits per day.

Is it possible to eat raw

Physalis can be eaten raw, but at the same time the taste will be slightly different. The fruits will be sour and unpleasant in taste. But at the same time they are perfect for making delicious juices and preserves.

Do I need to wash physalis before use?

Before starting to use the fruits of physalis, they must be washed and rinsed with hot water. This is necessary in order to remove unnecessary plaque from the fruit.

How to make physalis jam: recipes

Physalis Jam with apples

Ingredients:

• sugar - 3 kg;
• physalis - 2 kg;
• apples - 1 kg.

How to cook:

1. Peel the physalis fruits from dry skin, rinse and rinse with boiling water. Wash apples, get rid of the core.
2. Cut apples and physalis into small pieces (1/4 physalis), put them in a bowl and fill with sugar. Leave as it is until juice appears.
3. Put cook on low heat, while stirring until an amber hue appears.
4. Check availability. To check readiness, you can drip jam on a platter.If it does not spread, then this indicates its readiness.
5. Add citric acid.
6. Pour jam into sterilized jars, roll up and wrap. When the jars have cooled, place them in a cool, dark place.

Physalis Jam

Ingredients:

• physalis (confectionery) - 1 kg;
• water (drinking) - 500 ml;
• sugar - 1.2 kg.

How to cook:

1. First, prepare a sugar base for the impregnation of berries. To do this, put sugar in water and cook until smooth. After cooking, cool the syrup.
2. During the cooking of the syrup, sort the physalis, remove the boxes, rinse, dry and lay on a towel. Boil water, scald with it the fruits of physalis and cool.
3. Send the fruit for cooking. Pour in the sugar base and mix thoroughly. Wait about 4.5 hours until the fruits are completely saturated.
4. Put the mixture on the burner. Set medium heat and simmer until it begins to seethe. After that, reduce power to a minimum. Cook another 8 minutes.
5. Remove from heat, wait for the mass to cool. Repeat the 8-minute temperature treatment again after 6 hours. Perform the procedure 3-4 times until the jam thickens.
6. Pack jam in jars and cork.

Physalis Jam with Orange

Ingredients:

• physalis - 1 kg;
• sugar - 1 kg;
• oranges - 1 pc.;
• cinnamon - 1 tsp.

How to cook:

1. Peel the physalis, wash and rinse with boiling water, dry it, pierce the fruit with a fork (this must be done so that they are soaked in syrup).
2. Put physalis and sugar in a saucepan, cover with a towel or a lid. Put in a dark place for 12 hours.
3. Put cook physalis over low heat. With a lack of juice, it can be replaced with water. After boiling, remove the resulting foam, remove from heat.
4. Pour oranges with hot water, cut into small pieces. Combine oranges, physalis and cinnamon, stir and leave for one more day.
5. After that, put the jam on the stove to cook. After cooking, the fruit should soften.
6. Pour jam into jars and roll up. After that, they need to be turned over, wrapped in a blanket or a thick towel and left until they completely cool.

Interesting facts about physalis

1. Before you begin to eat the fruits of physalis in food, they must necessarily be doused with hot water. This is necessary in order to clean the product from plaque on the surface. If this procedure is not carried out, then you will not be able to fully enjoy the unique taste of the fruit.
2. Physalis grows as an independent plant. The fruits of the physalis “hide” in an attractive shell, the formation and growth of which occurs much more actively than the fruit inside.
3. The outer shell can determine the degree of ripeness of the fruit, because over time it changes color and fades. At the moment when the shell begins to lose its beauty and color saturation, you need to prepare for the harvest.
4. Plants have a fairly high yield. One medium bush of physalis can produce about 3 kg of crop.
5. The most important points associated with the fruits of physalis are its excellent taste and the content of a large number of useful properties. But only mature fruits have these benefits.
6. This culture has many different names, but most often the fruits are called precisely “physalis”. This word came from the Greek language, since "physo" has a translation - "swollen", and this is a fairly characteristic feature of the fetus and its shell.
7. Before use, please note that the shell is an inedible part of this product. It contains a large amount of toxins, which can have a very negative effect on human health (the same goes for overripe fruits).
8. There is such a belief - if dry branches of physalis are gathered in a bouquet, this will help create a positive atmosphere in the house, since physalis drives away unkind spirits, and also eliminates all negative.

Physalis photo