What Is Tamarillo?
Tamarillo is native to South America. Tamarillo, also known as “Tree Tomato”, is now cultivated in many parts of the world. One of the largest producers of tamarillo is New Zealand. The name was revised to differentiate it from the ordinary tomatoes, thus emphasizing on its exotic variety.
Benefits Of Tamarillo
1. Vitamins
Tamarillo is packed with vitamins A, C, E and pro-vitamin A (1). It has a good source of B-complex vitamins such as niacin, thiamine, and riboflavin. Other nutrients in tamarillo are carbohydrates, protein, fat, calcium, potassium and sodium (2) (3). It also contains minerals such as, phosphorus, manganese, magnesium, copper, zinc and iron. It is fortified with many nutrients that help improve the immune system.
2. Aids Weight Loss
This fruit is beneficial in weight loss, which can be attributed to it being low in calories and high in fiber. Consumed raw, sprinkled with herbs or in the form of salads, the juice of tamarillo acts as a detoxifier when consumed. Its acidic properties help cut down fat. In a study conducted on rats, it was found that the use of tamarillo may help manage weight and control obesity (4). Exercising, in addition, can accelerate the results of weight loss.
3. Good For Skin
Tamarillo offers vitamins A, C and E to ensure your skin stays healthy and radiant. Anthocyanin, phenols and flavonoids protect the skin from oxidative stress and pollution (5), (6). Tamarillo also helps in anti-aging. Just as regular tomatoes, these can be used in home remedies for various skin problems.
4. Helps Control Diabetes
The chlorogenic acid present in tamarillo and the low glycemic index of the fruit together help lower blood sugar levels in type-II diabetes mellitus (7). Tamarillo contains excellent antioxidants, which can reduce oxidative stress in organs such as the pancreas and the liver. Eating the pulp of tamarillo, or consuming its juice on a light stomach would ensure better results.
5. Soothes Inflamed Tonsils:
Tamarillo can help reduce inflammation in the lymph nodes. In Ecuador, the natives warmed tamarillo leaves and wrapped them around the neck to treat inflamed tonsils. The absorption of heat via leaves helps reduce pain. The Columbians make a poultice of the fruit by cooking it in embers for external medicinal use.
6. Lowers High Blood Pressure
Increase your tamarillo intake to lower the levels of high blood pressure (6). Loaded with good sources of minerals and potassium, this fruit helps control blood pressure.
7. Good For Heart
Potassium, a nutrient abundantly present in tamarillo, helps to balance the harmful effects of high sodium levels in the heart. It provides magnesium for the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system (8). Also, tamarillo contains high fiber content that helps restrain absorption of bad cholesterol in the body. Due to its excellent antioxidant properties, it helps reduce oxidative stress that may otherwise lead to stroke.
8. Good For The Eyes
Tamarillo fruits are also very good for maintaining healthy eyesight. Anthocyanins present in tamarillo help improve your vision. According to a study, anthocyanins have effects on rhodopsin regeneration and smooth muscle relaxation in vitro. Anthocyanins were present in eye tissues and improved blood circulation (9).
9. May Reduce The Risk Of Cancer
Anthocyanins contained in the darker tamarillo have potent antioxidants, which help combat free radicals that cause cancer. They also have anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties that stave off cancerous outbreaks (8). Now that you know about tamarillo health benefits, go ahead and check out one of its recipes!
Tomorilla Sprout Salad:
Serves: 1 person Time: 10 mins Ingredients:
Tamarillos – 2 to 3 Multi grain (optional) – 250 grm Onions -1(diced) Green chilli-1 small Cumin seeds – ¼ tsp Salt to taste Oil – 1/2 tsp Garnish of your choice
Preparation:
Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and sauté for a minute, after which you can add the diced onions and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes. Once slightly tender, add the multi-grain sprouts and sauté on a high flame. Alternate the flame from low to high, sauté for another 3 minutes. Sprinkle with some water and cover it. Steam it for a minute, and then remove the lid and add the tomatoes. Sauté on a high flame, adding salt. You can season it with Indian or Italian seasoning, which is optional.
Tell us how you found this post! Also share your tamarillo recipes, if you know any! Leave a comment below! Can you eat the skin of a tamarillo? Check out the infographic below to learn more about the benefits of adding tamarillo to your diet. Yes, tamarillo skin is edible. However, it has a very bitter taste. How do you eat tamarillo? You can eat tamarillo by scooping out the flesh with a spoon directly. It can also be added to salads for a unique flavor.
