Mini Ground Cherry (Physalis minima)

Physalis minima, known as Sunberry, is an erect annual plant that grows to around 50cm in height. It produces edible fruits that can be collected from the wild and used locally. This plant also has medicinal properties. Although some varieties of the Physalis genus are toxic, the fully ripe fruits of Physalis minima are generally edible. The Sunberry is believed to have originated in tropical regions of the Americas and is now found in many places around the world. It grows well in well-drained soil and can be grown in sun or light shade. The edible fruit, which tastes similar to cherry tomatoes, can be cooked or eaten raw. It is juicy, slightly astringent and sweet, with a pleasant blend of sourness. The fruits ripen successively over a long period, with each fruit enveloped in its own protective calyx, which should not be ingested as it is toxic. All parts of the plant are used for various medicinal purposes. The fruit is believed to have alterative, aperitive, bitter, diuretic, laxative and tonic properties. The crushed leaves can be used as a remedy for headaches and itching, while the juice of the leaves mixed with mustard oil and water has been used to relieve earaches. The root is used as a febrifuge and anthelmintic, and can be consumed to treat fevers. It can also be chewed to relieve pain, or used as a decoction to treat hypertension and diabetes. Extracts from the plant have demonstrated anticancer activity.