The red berries of the winter cherry plant possess an exquisite sweet-and-sour flavor, and some people preserve them in syrup or vinegar. In some places, wine is fermented with these berries to give it medicinal properties. However, it is better to take these berries directly and not mix them with wine.
Winter Cherry Scientific Facts
- Other names – Alkekengy
- French – Alkekenge
- Spanish – Alquequenje, capuli, tomatillo ingles
- Environment – It grows in central and southern Europe and warm climate regions of Central and South America. It is rare to find and prefers borders of vineyards and woods.
- Description—A plant of the Solanaceae family grows up to one meter high. Its fruit is an orange or red berry the size of a cherry, covered by a scarlet-red calyx that swells, forming a bladder.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally – The fruit (berries)
Healing Properties and Uses
The berries of winter cherry are rich in vitamin C (they contain a higher proportion than lemon), organic acids (malic and citric), carotene (provitamin A), physalien (a red coloring substance), and traces of alkaloids. They have diuretics, depurative, and uricosuric properties (they promote the elimination of uric acid). They make a good remedy for people suffering from the following ailments:
- Urinary lithiasis promotes the dissolution of uric salt calculi and sand, preventing urinary sediments from precipitating and forming new calculi.
- Gout and uric arthritis promote the elimination of uric acid (uricosuric properties).
How to use Winter Cherry
- Fresh or dried berries, taking 10 or 20 in the morning and the same amount at noon.
- Decoction with 50-100 g of berries per liter of water. Drink three or four cups daily.
Frequently Asked Question
What are the essential active compounds in the winter cherry plant, and how do they work?
Withanolides are the primary bioactive elements, offering adaptogenic qualities (helps the body manage stress) and possible anti-inflammatory effects.
Physalins: These compounds may exhibit anti-cancer properties, but more research is needed.
Is there solid evidence that the winter cherry plant boosts the immune system?
While preliminary studies hint at potential immune-boosting effects, more extensive human research is required for conclusive evidence.
Can the winter cherry plant help with stress and anxiety?
Due to its adaptogenic withanolides, limited studies suggest winter cherry may aid in stress reduction and improve anxiety symptoms.
Are there any studies showing the winter cherry plant can improve cognitive function?
Early research proposes a possible benefit for cognitive function and memory.
Does the winter cherry plant have any proven benefits for arthritis or joint pain?
Winter cherry has been used for arthritis. While some small studies suggest potential anti-inflammatory effects, more extensive, rigorous studies are crucial to validate its efficacy for joint health.
Can winter cherry help regulate blood sugar levels?
Animal studies indicate that winter cherry may have potential blood-sugar-regulating properties.
Are there documented interactions between the winter cherry plant and medications?
It’s essential to be aware of possible interactions. Winter cherry could interfere with immunosuppressants and sedative medications. Always consult your doctor before combining winter cherry with prescription drugs.
What’s the recommended dosage for the winter cherry plant?
Due to limited conclusive research, there’s no standardized dosage. It’s best to follow the instructions on a reputable supplement product or consult a healthcare professional.
Are there common side effects associated with winter cherry use?
Generally, winter cherry is considered well-tolerated in moderate doses. However, some individuals may experience mild side effects like stomach upset or drowsiness.
Is it safe to consume fresh winter cherries?
Ripe winter cherries are generally safe to eat. However, unripe berries can be toxic. Until more research on fresh fruit consumption is available, it is best to stick with dried forms or established supplements.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 585. Print.
- https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/winter_cherry.htm
- https://www.humanitas.net/wiki/nutrition/fruit/winter-cherry-indian-ginseng/
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-988/winter-cherry
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318407
- https://www.healthyhildegard.com/health-benefits-of-golden-berry/