Unbelievable Health Benefits of Tamarillo That You Need to Know!

Physical Characteristics of Tamarillo

The tamarillo is a small tree or a semi-woody shrub that grows quickly but is fragile. Its roots are shallow, and its height ranges from 3 to 5.5 meters, rarely reaching up to 7.5 meters. The evergreen leaves are alternate and somewhat heart-shaped at the base. It produces clusters of pale pink or purple flowers. The fruit’s skin can vary in color, ranging from purple, blood red, orange, or yellow to dark red and yellow. The blossoms are white to pink, with blooming occurring in late spring or early summer. Tamarillo foliage is aromatic and velvety. Red varieties are larger, of higher quality, and are more commonly cultivated, while yellow fruits are sought after for their exceptional fragrance and taste.

Tamarillo flowers are typically self-pollinating, but bees also play a role in pollination. The plant begins fruiting at 1 to 2 years old, although it is not commercially productive during the first 5 to 6 years. At full maturity, between 11 and 12 years, it produces commercial-quality fruit. The fruit has a tough and durable skin, making it suitable for long-distance transport without damage. Tamarillo fruits are egg-shaped, measuring 4 to 10 centimeters in length, with colors ranging from yellow and purple to red and violet. Red fruits are tangier, while yellow and orange fruits are sweeter.

Growth and Cultivation

Tamarillo is a tropical and subtropical fruit that requires a moderate amount of water. In Ecuador, it is cultivated at altitudes of 1,525 to 3,050 meters. Its shallow roots necessitate wind protection, as the branches are prone to breaking, especially when bearing fruit. Tamarillo trees can tolerate compacted, poorly aerated soils but require fertile and well-drained soil with adequate sunlight for optimal growth. Even short periods of waterlogging can kill the tree. Tamarillo trees are also sensitive to prolonged drought. Using mulch is highly beneficial for retaining moisture during the growing season.

Tamarillo Helps Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease

As laboratory research in Malaysia shows, tamarillo contains adequate amounts of soluble fiber, protein, starch, anthocyanins, and carotenoids. Anthocyanins and carotenoids are very beneficial for heart health. For instance, carotenoids can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by lowering blood pressure, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and inflammation markers, and improving insulin sensitivity in muscles, liver, and adipose tissue. Additionally, epidemiological studies show the relationship between the consumption of foods rich in anthocyanins and the reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases. For example, research published in the Journal of Nutrition shows that consuming foods high in anthocyanins demonstrates the ability to protect the heart in mice

Tamarillo helps regulate blood pressure

Different varieties of the tamarillo plant have been studied by researchers at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. The researchers at the Department of Food Sciences found that tamarillo contains a large amount of potassium, with approximately 400 milligrams of potassium in every 100 grams of tamarillo. Since the Food and Drug Administration recommends consuming 4,700 milligrams of potassium daily from fresh fruits and vegetables, tamarillo is very beneficial in this regard. Therefore, a diet filled with colorful fruits and vegetables may help lower systolic blood pressure in those dealing with high blood pressure issues.

Tamarillo helps improve eye health

Since tamarillo contains vitamin A, it may play a significant role in enhancing vision. Vitamin A is important for good eyesight, a strong immune system, and cellular growth. Beta-carotene, a form of vitamin A, is specifically found in plants like tamarillo. Beta-carotene, or vitamin A, is an antioxidant. Consuming this beneficial antioxidant can help strengthen the body and maintain overall health.

Tamarillo may help you live longer

Tamarillo contains a large amount of vitamin C, and the consumption of vitamin C has been studied as a way to increase lifespan. Specifically, a study focused on Werner syndrome, a relatively rare disorder that leads to early onset age-related diseases.

The study showed that vitamin C increased the lifespan of the individuals involved. Additionally, vitamin C has been shown to extend the lifespan of mice, and a review of 14 studies on various organisms, including worms, flies, and rodents, indicates that vitamin C affects lifespan, although the results vary widely

Tamarillo increases the body’s metabolism

Vitamin B6 is part of the B vitamin complex, and while it does not directly provide a lot of energy on its own as part of the B group, it helps the body convert calories from carbohydrates and proteins into useful energy.

Research published in the journal Obesity examined the effects of tamarillo extract (Cyphomandra betacea) on obese mice that were fed a high-fat diet. Let’s now look at the results of this study.

Overall, the obese mice were treated with vitamin C. The betacea extract showed its potential in maintaining weight and reducing high fat, with increased antioxidant activity of SOD, GPx, and TAS, and anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, including C. betacea in the daily diet is a one-step action for preventing obesity and managing weight.