Turkey Berry Benefits Uses And Side Effects – Health Benefits of Turkey Berry
Turkey berry, also known as Solanum torvum, or pea eggplant is a widely distributed plant species belonging to the Solanaceae family. Turkeyberry is a versatile plant with edible fruits that has a lot of potential health benefits, and ornamental value
It is a type of spiny shrub that produces small green round berries when unripe, that are used for various culinary and medicinal purposes.
Turkey berries are rich in various nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and E, as well as dietary fiber and antioxidants. They are often used in traditional medicine for their potential health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and boosting the immune system.
However, it’s important to note that consuming large quantities of turkey berries may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Turkey Berry Nutritional Value
Turkey’s berries are extremely nutrient-dense because of their diverse nutritional makeup.
They are an excellent source of minerals like potassium, sodium, iron, magnesium, and copper as well as proteins, carbs, and fats. Turkey berries contain phenols, triterpenes, alkaloids, antioxidants, and sterols among other phytochemicals.
Amazing Health Benefits Of Turkey Berry
- Turkey berry can help prevent and treat anemia, as it is a rich source of plant-based iron. However, the iron from turkey berry may not be well absorbed, so it is advisable to pair it with foods that are high in vitamin C to enhance iron absorption.
- Turkey berry is good for sickle cell patients with low haemoglobin, since it can help increase the production of red blood cells and keep anemia and other related disorder far from you.
- It can help regulate blood sugar levels, as it contains bioactive polyphenols that reduce oxidative stress and improve metabolism. This is also beneficial for people with diabetes or prediabetes.
- Turkey berry can help reduce inflammation, as it contains bioactive steroidal glycosides that lower inflammatory markers. This may be helpful for people with arthritis, asthma, or other inflammatory conditions.
- It help fight infections, as it has antibacterial and antiviral properties. It may also boost the immune system and prevent common ailments like cold, cough, and flu.
- It may help improve digestion, as it has fiber and antioxidants that promote gut health. It may also help treat indigestion, diarrhea, and intestinal worms.
- It helps support bone health, as it has calcium and manganese that are essential for bone formation and maintenance. It may also prevent osteoporosis and fractures.
Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Berry
How to eat turkey berry?
Turkey berry can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried. It can be added to soups, stews, curries, salads, or pickles. It can also be made into tea, juice, or jam.
What are the side effects of turkey berry?
Turkey berry is generally safe to eat in moderation, but some people may experience allergic reactions, stomach upset, or diarrhea. It may also interact with some medications, such as blood thinners, diabetes drugs, or antibiotics. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor before consuming turkey berry if you have any medical conditions or take any medications.
Where to buy turkey berry?
Turkey berry can be found in some grocery stores, farmers’ markets, or online shops that sell exotic fruits and vegetables. You can also grow your own turkey berry plants from seeds or cuttings.
What are the other names of turkey berry?
Turkey berry has many other names, such as prickly nightshade, devil’s fig, shoo shoo bush, wild eggplant, pea eggplant, kwahunsusua, or susumber.
Is turkey berry a nightshade?
Yes, turkey berry belongs to the nightshade family of plants, along with tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, peppers, and tobacco. Some people may be sensitive to nightshades and experience inflammation, joint pain, or skin rashes. If you have any nightshade intolerance, you should avoid turkey berry.
