Everything about Pichuberry

Pichuberry or more commonly known as Inca berry, is a distant relative of eggplant. Its binomial name is Physalisperuviana, and it has recently received a lot of attention due to its excellent nutritional values.

It has made it to the frontline after people realized how densely packed it is with high-quality nutrients like calcium and protein. Although the sweet,tangy taste and the unique texture of the fruit also serve as a benefit. Due to its superfood qualities, Pichuberry is famous all over the world.

If you want to learn more about this unique fruit, then stick around till the end.

History of Pichuberry

Pichuberry is a delicacy of the Andes in Peru. There, it is locally known as Incan berry. It wasn’t mainstream for a very long time, and therefore many like to call it the lost berry of Incas. When the locals discovered it, it became highly famous. Some communities also believe that Pichuberry is the reason behind the strength of the locals residing in the Andes.

After making a permanent spot in the local markets, this fruit was supplied to other regions as well. In the days of travel and trade, the plants were grown in England as well. Just like that, the popularity of this berry kept increasing, and now it is found in the areas of Africa, Asia, and America.

Appearance of Pichuberries

Physalisperuviana, or more commonly known as Pichuberries, has a shape of a small baby tomato. It is yellow and covered with a papery calyx. If you look at it from afar, you might confuse it with being a non-ripened tomato.

Shape wise, it is perfectly spherical and has a smooth exterior. Its size can range from 1 to 2 cm. As far as the taste goes, it is sweet at first, but then the aftertaste is tarty and sour in a good way.

Health Benefits of Pichuberry

As discussed, Pichuberry is not only packed with flavors, but it also offers many health benefits. It is said that when a person eats golden berries daily, infections and diseases are unknown to him. A few of the many benefits of this superfood are given below:

  • Antioxidants

Pichuberries contain rare antioxidants that increase the benefits of this fruit ten folds. It protects the body from all kinds of infections – be it the regular flu or other deadly diseases.

A great example of these antioxidants is phenol. Pichuberry naturally contains abundant quantities of phenols. This compound significantly cleanses the body from within. It helps to promote healthy liver, eyes, and kidneys.

  • Vitamin C

This fruit is packed with all kinds of vitamins, especially vitamin c is found in larger quantities in Pichuberries. It approximately contains 20 times more ascorbic acid as compared to oranges. Due to this fact, it provides all kinds of benefits ranging from anti-aging qualities to gum protection.

  • Protein Source

Usually, fruits do not contain enough amounts of protein. But it is the opposite in this case. Every 1-cup serving of Pichuberries contains 1.7grams of protein.

The protein content of cape berries is higher than the protein value of papayas, pomegranates, and blueberries, all combined together.

  • Anti-Diabetic Properties

While all fruits are a good source of healthy sugars and help control diabetes, the Pichuberries serve a dual purpose. Not only do they help in normalizing sugar levels, but they also reduce them by promoting insulin-secreting hormones.

This way, it works for longer periods. And, if you consume it regularly, your diabetes might get controlled altogether.

  • Withanolides

Another great element of Pichuberries is that they contain a good amount of withanolide. It is a naturally occurring antioxidant and fights with inflammation and pain like a charm.

Thus, people who suffer from chronic pain and illness are advised to incorporate Pichuberries into their daily diet. Another important aspect of withanolides is that it suppresses tumor growth and prevents it from spreading.

  • Vitamin D

Vitamin D is necessary for many purposes. This compound is important for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. It also promotes a healthy immune system.

Fortunately, a serving of Pichuberries per day can significantly solve the problem of vitamin D deficiency by providing it in good quantities.

Fun Facts about Pichuberry

For a fruit that is consumed all over the world, Pichuberries come along with many fun facts attached to them. Some of those fun facts are discussed below:

  • Cape Gooseberries

In some regions, the United States, Pichuberries are known as cape gooseberries. And you are right to assume; this name has nothing to do with the shape of the fruit. In fact, it is given this name because of the calyx that covers it like a cape.

  • The French Name

In French, Pichuberries are called “amue en cage.”Meaning love in a cage. This name truly shows how much this fruit is appreciated worldwide.

  • A Superfood

Many people like to consume Pichuberries as a source of instant nutrition. Even people on strict diets like to incorporate it into their meals to avoid malnutrition.

In a Nutshell

Physalisperuviana is a lost fruit of incus. It was discovered in the Andes, and since then, it has been spread to every corner of the world. From people consuming it as a superfood to doctors prescribing it for nutritional benefits, this berry is one of the most popular foods.

It is rich in vitamins and antioxidants which fight with both internal and external attacks. Moreover, it contains a high amount of protein, which makes it stand out from the rest. It may be small in size, but packs a bunch of benefits that leave every other food behind.

If you have ever consumed this fruit, then you must be aware of its sweet yet tarty flavor. But if not, then we suggest you try it as soon as possible because it will spellbind you with its charm just like it has done with everyone else. You can try it as is, or mix it in other desserts; either way, it is a pure delight to enjoy.