Physalis alkekengi fruit is rich in vitamin C, useful for protecting the liver, stomach and urinary tract. Let's find out better.

Description of the plant

Physalis is a solanacea that originated in a vast area ranging from the Caucasus to Japan. Its berries, similar to small slightly oily golden tomatoes, are hidden in floral goblets with beautiful leaves that resemble tissue paper .

It is generally cultivated precisely for its aesthetic qualities, sold as a "Chinese lantern" . Like many other Solanaceae, it is a food rich in interesting vitamins and active ingredients: we discover which ones.

Snowflakes, ally of

Liver, intent, stomach, urinary tract and kidneys. Strengthens the immune system.

Calories, nutritional values ​​and properties of the alchechengi

100 g of gingerbread contain 66.25 kca l, and:

• Water 106.75 g
• Carbohydrates 14 g
• Fats 0.875 g
• Proteins 2, 375 g

Very widely used in Unani medicine, especially pulverized, the alchechengi is an excellent source of vitamin C (approximately twice that found in lemon) and of other antimicrobial, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory substances, especially the physalina and ethyl-coffee.

It works very well as a vitamin supplement or an antioxidant, especially through citric acid. Also noteworthy is the content of tannins and mucilages, at the origin of the surface oiliness and astringent properties.

It is recommended for use when you want to encourage diuretic activity . The golden color indicates a high content of carotenoids. The acids contained in the fruit are able to prevent the formation of kidney stones and to help dissolve existing ones.

Physalis among the natural remedies against kidney stones: discover the others

Contraindications

Like other Solanaceae it may contain alkaloids capable of triggering allergic reactions in case of hypersensitivity.

Curiosity on the alchechengi

The nickname "Chinese lantern" has very ancient origins: the name "alchechengi" derives from a Latinization of the Arabic al-kakang. literally "Chinese lantern".

The physalina has been isolated for the first time from the physalis alkekengi .

Already in antiquity it was present in Chinese, Arab, Greek, Indian and even Inca medical texts.

How to eat

Physalis is consumed fresh as any other fruit but it is also very well known in its dried form . Sauces and jams can be prepared and a delicacy is obtained if covered with chocolate.

The alchechengi is very decorative in fact just bring out turning the orange berry and keeping the thin skin similar to rice paper that covers the fruit. The resulting shape is very suggestive and can really be an elegant touch to embellish fruit salads, desserts and sweets.