Solanum betaceum/The tamarillo (Solanum betaceum) is a small tree or shrub in the flowering plant family Solanaceae (the nightshade family). It is best known as the species that bears the tamarillo, an egg-shaped edible fruit. It is also known as the tree tomato, tomate de árbol, tomate andino, tomate serrano, blood fruit, tomate de yuca, tomate de españa, sachatomate, berenjena and tamamoro in South America, and terong Belanda (Dutch eggplant) in Indonesia. It is popular globally, especially in Peru, Colombia, New Zealand, Ecuador, Rwanda, Australia, and the United States.

Tamarillo is a sweet fruit, which exhibits a diverse range of health benefits, and is mostly cultivated in tropical climate nations. The fruit has two colors: yellow and red and yellow. This egg-shaped fruit is orangish from the inside and is fleshy with small black seeds. The tamarillo plant consists of distinctive-colored flowers that offer a pleasant and calming fragrance.

 

Solanum betaceum also known as tree tomato or tamarillo is the fruit which has the similar appearance of tomato. The fruit could be found in two colors of yellow and red. The red one is well-known than the yellow. Fruit is egg-shaped bearing yellow to orange flesh and black seeds that is surrounded by purple gelatin. Red color found in tamarillo is due to the pigment named anthocyanins and yellow color is from carotenoids pigment.

The fruit tamarillo is found in tree with short life span. The plant prefers subtropical climate with 600 and 4000 millimeters rainfall and annual temperatures in between 15 and 20°C. It is not tolerable to drought stress and frost. It does well in deep, light, and fertile soils. It possess fragrant flower in many colors. The tree is shallow rooted and grow up to the height of 5 meters. The trees are short-lived which could survive from 12 to 15 years. Leaves are heart-shaped which measure a foot long and 5 inches in width. Flowers are light blue, pink and white measuring ½ inch in diameter and are borne in tips of branches. Flowers are replaced by orange, yellow, red or purple fruit which is long-stemmed measuring 3 inches long and 11/2 inches wide. Seeds are flat, thin, and hard.

The word tamarillo is derivative in New Zealand in 1967. Later tamarillo is recognized as a tropical fruit which is grown in tropical climates. The plant was originated from South America, Peru, Ecuador, and Chile. Fruit appears from May to October. Fruit is cultivated in Hawaii and the plant survives till 15 years old there. After growing out from a flower, fruit requires 25 weeks to reach maturity. Today New Zealand is the high producer of tamarillo fruits worldwide.

History

Tamarillo is inherent to Andes of Peru, Ecuador, Chile, Bolivia and Colombia. Today it is cultivated in small orchards and gardens and considered to be a most popular fruit of these regions. It is also cultivated in subtropical areas of the world such as South Africa, Rwanda, United States, China, Hong Kong, New Zealand and Australia. Around 1996, the first internationally marketed crop was produced in Australia of tamarillo. The exotic fruit enthusiasts have grown increasingly the fruit from mid-1970s around the country. About 2000 tons are produced in New Zealand on 200 hectares of land and is exported to Japan, United States and Europe. The existing marketing channels which are developed for kiwifruit are used for export. Tamarillo is grown successfully at higher elevations of Philippines, Malaysia and in Puerto Rico.

In New Zealand, tamarillo is known as tree tomato. A new name is chosen by New Zealand Tree Tomato Promotions Council for distinguishing it from ordinary garden tomato and increases its alluring appeal.

Plant

Tamarillo is a fast-growing tree which grows upto the height of 5 meters. The life expectancy of the plant is about 12 years but it reaches its peak production after four years. The trees have a single upright trunk and lateral branches. Lateral branches held flowers and fruit. Leaves are simple, large, perennial and possess strong and pungent smell. Flowers are pink to white and usually form in 10 to 50 clusters. A cluster produces one to six fruits. Without cross-pollination also the plants could bear fruit. The fragrant flowers attract insects. The tree has shallow roots. It is not tolerable to drought stress and could be damaged by strong winds.

Fruit

The plant bears fruit egg-shaped which measures about 4 to 10 centimeters long. The color of the fruit differs from yellow and orange to red and purple. It may have dark and longitudinal stripes. Yellow or orange fruits are sweeter and red fruits are acetous. Flesh has firm texture and possesses larger seeds.

Nutritional Value

Tamarillo fruit is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals such as Vitamins A, C, and provitamin A, and they are also high in Calcium, Iron, Potassium, Phosphorus, and Magnesium respectively. Here is the table of the nutrition value of tamarillo of 100 gr edible serving

Nutrients	Amounts	Nutrients	Amount
Water	86.08 g	Iron	0.57 mg
Energy	31 Kcal	Copper	0.03 mg
Protein	1.99 g	Zinc	0.15 mg
Total fat	0.36 g	Selenium	0.1  μg
Carbohydrate	3.8 g	vitamin A	189  μg
Dietary fibre	3.3 g	Vitamin B6	0.198 mg
Sodium	1.44 mg	Pantothenate	0.04 mg
Magnesium	20.6 mg	Folate	4  μg
Phosphorus	38.9 mg	Biotin	0.1  μg
Sulphur	17.2 mg	Vitamin C	29.8 mg
Chloride	29.8 mg	Vitamin E	1.94 mg
Potassium	321 mg	Thiamin	0.043 mg
Calcium	13 mg	Riboflavin	0.024 mg
Manganese	114  μg	Niacin	0.271 mg

Health Benefits of Tamarillo

Tamarillo provides a great amount of dietary fiber, protein, minerals and vitamins. It has high content of carotenoid pigments such as β-carotene, ζ-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin and lutein. Besides this, it also includes vitamins such as Vitamin B6, Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Vitamin A and Vitamin C content found in tamarillo makes a very good antioxidant. It also contains phytonutrient such as anthocyanin, phenolics, flavonoids and carotenoid. Fruit color varies according to the presence of phytochemicals. The variety of red provides more anthocyanins and variety yellow have high content of carotenoid. Besides these, tamarillo possesses malic acid and citric acid that promote its acidic tangy flavor.

1. Acts as antioxidant

Oxidative stress and free radicals are the main cause for diseases. Tamarillo has phytonutrients that offers antioxidant activity and lowers the chances of degenerative diseases such as cancer, cataracts, Parkinson’s disease, heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. Antioxidant properties are attributed by Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Vitamin A and other phytonutrients. Antioxidants are found in abundant source in peel as well as flesh. Studies shows that peel have higher activity due to flavonoids and phenols.

2. Eye health

Tomatoes are known for its benefit to improve vision and eye health. Tamarillo is also beneficial for maintaining eyesight. Tamarillo has Vitamin A that maintains healthy eyes. It also moistens eye membranes and acts as a barrier for virus and bacteria. It lowers the chances of eye infections. It possesses various nutrients which prevents oxidative stress and degenerative eye disorders including macular degeneration and cataracts.

3. Heart health

Potassium is found in ample amounts in tamarillo which assist in controlling heart rate as well as blood pressure. It balances harmful effects of sodium on heart. It also provides magnesium as well as other minerals that are essential for proper functioning of cardiovascular system. Tamarillo has high content of dietary fiber which assists in inhibition of bad cholesterol absorption. The antioxidant activity prevents heart from oxidative stress and lowers the chances of heart stroke and other cardiac problems.

4. Prevent kidney stones

Citric acid helps to avoid the growth and development of kidney stones. It provides protective benefits with the excretion of excess calcium as well as uric acid from the body.  The presence of citric acid in Tamarillo causes acidic flavor. Add tamarillo to the diet to lower the chances of kidney stones. But not scientific evidence has been found on benefits provided by tamarillos on kidney stones.

5. Prevent cancer

Tamarillo is rich in nutrients which lowers the chances of cancer with its antioxidant properties. Anthocyanins possess anti-cancer properties. Studies shows that lycopene inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Being an antioxidant food, the consumption of tamarillos protects the body cells from turning cancerous and from oxidative stress.

6. Skin health

Tamarillo offers Vitamin E, Vitamin C and Vitamin A which builds blocks of skin. The daily intake of tamarillo assures that the body is not deprived of nutrients and makes the skin healthy. It prevents aging of skin due to UV light and pollution. Tamarillo extracts is used for various skin formulations for its antioxidant properties and benefits to the skin. Phenols, anthocyanins and flavonoids protect skin from oxidative stress. Like tomato, tamarillo could be used for various skin problems. Blend two teaspoon of oatmeal, one tamarillo and one lemon juice. Apply it to the face and let it remain for 15 to 20 minutes. Then rinse this mask with lukewarm water.

7. Helpful for diabetics

Scientific studies show that tamarillo is beneficial for diabetic people. Tamarillo has chlorogenic acid which helps to lower blood sugar in Type II diabetes. Moreover, antioxidant activities help to lower oxidative stress on body organs such as the liver and pancreas that could result in diabetes.

8. Antimicrobial activity

Tamarillos possess a wide range of antimicrobial activity which was the result of protein that inhibits the action of enzyme invertase. Its protective action was found in the study over various plant pathogens. This antioxidant activity assists in preventing infection in humans.

    9 Treat tonsillitis

Tonsilitis is a disorder that attacks the lymph node or tonsil within the mouth. Tonsilitis happens due to inflammation which is caused by several factors such as infection of bacteria or disorder of lymphatic nodes itself. Colombian people believe that tamarillo can be used to treat tonsilitis.

      10. Reduce cholesterol

Health Benefits of Tamarillo Fruits are also the best choices for reducing cholesterol levels. Tamarillo contains fiber that can increase good cholesterol and decrease the level of bad fat or cholesterol within the body. Consuming tamarillo after eating high cholesterol food or along the meal can help you to reduce the effect of cholesterol.

       11. Prevent atherosclerosis

As tamarillo can reduce the cholesterol inside the body so it also gives benefits in protecting the artery lining from developing plaque or aggregation which can cause arteries thickening or atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is one factor that increases the risk of heart disease.

        13. Boost immunity

All the antioxidants and nutrient content of tamarillo can slightly boost the immune system. Tamarillo also contains vitamin C that is almost the same as oranges and vitamin C is known as a body immune booster. Vitamin C can protect the immune cells and strengthen it to fight disease or microorganism infection.

        14. Rejuvenate cells in the organs

Tamarillo contains protein and amino acids that can promote body cell rejuvenation or the production of new cells. This will actually help in p=repairing any damage that occurs in the body including fastening the wound healing on the skin area.

        15. Prevent Alzheimer’s and Parkinson disease

Both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease are disorders that are caused by damage in the brain and causing memory loss and paralyzing the body. Tamarillo contains high antioxidants that can protect the brain cells from damage and keep healthy nerve function within the brain.

         16. Manages blood pressure

The mineral and potassium content in tamarillo help in reducing the high levels of blood pressure in your body. Also, the carotenoids [12] in the fruit aids in lowering the risk of coronary heart diseases, which are linked to high levels of blood pressure. Incorporating the fruit into your daily diet in a controlled manner can help you get rid of systolic blood pressure.

       17. Promotes longevity

Various studies have been conducted to assess the role played by vitamin C in aiding a longer life. It has been proven to increase life span, which can be pointed out in the study which focused on Werner syndrome (a syndrome causing premature aging). The application of vitamin C limited the onset of the condition. As the fruit has a high content of vitamin C, it has been pointed out to have a possible impact in promoting longevity.

 18. Improves metabolism

Foods that are enriched with vitamins and minerals are extremely beneficial for improving the functioning of your body. A well-functioning healthy body is the result of good metabolic activity in the body. The vitamin B6 present in the fruit aids in the production of energy. It helps to convert the calories into useful energy, thereby limiting excessive weight gain as well. The vitamin also contributes towards improving the metabolism of hemoglobin present in your body, easing the transportation of blood. Tamarillo is effective in combating obesity.

Traditional uses

• Tamarillos are one of the very low-calorie fruits. 100 g of fresh fruit contains just 31 calories. They contain slightly more calories, fat, and protein than tomatoes. (100 g tomato has 18 calories). Nevertheless, they have good amounts of health-benefiting plant nutrients such as dietary fiber (3.3 mg or 9% of RDA), minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins.
• The acidic flavor (sourness) of tree tomatoes mainly comes from citric acid. The other important acid in them is malic acid.
• The ORAC value (antioxidant strength) of 100 g fresh tamarillos is 1659 TE (Trolox equivalents). Their antioxidant value is primarily derived from poly-phenolic, flavonol, and anthocyanidin compounds. Some of these phytochemicals include chlorogenic acid, kaempferol, and anthocyanin pigments such as cyanidin glycosides, especially concentrated in their skin. Scientific studies suggest that Chlorogenic acid helps to decrease blood sugar levels in type-II diabetes mellitus.
• Yellow and gold variety tamarillo contains more vitamin-A and carotenes than red varieties. However, the red variety has more anthocyanin pigments. In addition, yellow tamarillos are an excellent source of carotenes and xanthins. These compounds possess antioxidant properties and, together with vitamin-A, are essential for good visual health. Further, vitamin-A is also required for maintaining the integrity of mucosa and skin. Consumption of natural vegetables and fruits rich in flavonoids helps protect from lung and oral cavity cancers.
• Tree tomato is a modest source of B-complex vitamins such as thiamin, riboflavin, and pyridoxine (vitamin B-6). Together, these vitamins help as cofactors for enzymes in metabolism as well as in various synthetic functions inside the body.
• They are indeed a very good source of electrolyte, potassium. 100 g fresh fruit has 321 mg or 7% of this mineral. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure, thus countering the bad influences of sodium. Also, the fruit contains a few minerals such as copper, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and iron.
• For sore throat, warm the leaves and wrap it around neck.
• Cook the pulp in embers and use it as a poultice for inflamed tonsils.

Precautions                                                                                               

• Avoid by people with known allergies.
• Use it in moderate amounts.
• People with health ailments should consult the doctor before use.

How to Eat

• Consume the fruit by scooping the fresh.
• Flesh could be lightly sugared and cooled which could be used for breakfast.
• In New Zealand, the flesh is spread on toast at breakfast.
• It could be added to stews, chutneys, hollandaise and curries.
• Add it to dessert or combine it with apples.
• In Nepal, it is used as tomato for curry.
• In Ecuador, it is blended with chili peppers for making hot sauce.
• It could be added to green salads, fruit salads and sandwiches.
• In South America, it is blended with ice, milk and sugar.
• Tamarillo could be baked, grilled or boiled and serve it with fish, burger or steak.

DIY Tamarillo Recipes that are Quick and Healthy

Tamarillo Sprout Salad: Serves 1

Ingredients you’ll need:

•  Tamarillo – 2 to 3
•  Multigrain (optional) – 250 grams
•  Cumin seeds – ¼ teaspoon
•  Salt to taste
•  Oil – 1/2 teaspoon
•  Onions -1(diced)
•  Green chili-1 small
•  The garnishing of your choice

How to prepare:

1. Heat oil in a frying pan.
2. Add the cumin seeds and sauté for around 1 minute, then add diced onions and again sauté for some 2 to 3 minutes.
3. Once it gets slightly tender, you can add multi-grain sprouts and sauté over a high flame.
4. Now change the fire from low to high, and sauté for three more minutes.
5. Next, sprinkle some water over it and cover it properly.
6. Steam for 1 minute before removing the lid to add the tamarillos.
7. Now sauté over a high flame and add salt to taste.
8. Serve with a smile. Feel free to season it with Italian or Indian seasoning.

Green Apple and Tamarillo Chutney: Around 2 cups

Ingredients you’ll need:

• 2 cups chopped, peeled tamarillo
• Three crushed cloves garlic, crushed
• ½ cup green apples, peeled and cut to small sizes
• ½ cup sweet onion
• Curry, a pinch or two
• 2 1/4 tablespoons ginger root, grated
• One teaspoon chili powder
• One tablespoon whole clove
• One teaspoon black peppercorn
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

How to prepare:

1. Keep the chopped tamarillo in a pan.
2. Add the garlic, curry, ginger, onions, and apples.
3. Now, add the peppercorns and cloves, and stir in the honey, salt, and chili powder.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, and stir till it gets well-blended.
5. Bring the heat down and simmer for nearly 1 hour or so.
6. When it cools, pack the jam-like stuff in a clean jar and seal.
7. Enjoy on chicken, fish, or as a topping on your favorite roasted turkey.

Tomorilla Sprout Salad

Ingredients:

• Tamarillos – 2 to 3
• Multigrain (optional) – 250 gram
• Onions -1(diced)
• Green chili-1 small
• Cumin seeds – ¼ tsp
• Salt to taste
• Oil – 1/2 tsp
• A 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.

References

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