# Tomatillo (Physalis philadelphica)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/tomatillo
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-24
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Fruit
**Also Known As:** Physalis philadelphica, Mexican husk tomato, Green tomato, Jamberry, Tomate verde, Miltomate, Fresadilla, Ground cherry

## Overview

Tomatillo (Physalis philadelphica) contains withanolides, bioactive compounds that may provide [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects through inhibition of NF-κB pathways. This heritage fruit also supplies potassium and dietary fiber, supporting [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) through vasodilation and cholesterol management.

## Health Benefits

• May support [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) through potassium content acting as a vasodilator (based on nutrient analysis, no human trials)
• Contains withanolides with potential [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties (in vitro research only)
• Provides dietary fiber that may help lower cholesterol levels (general nutrient benefit, no specific tomatillo studies)
• Rich in vitamin C and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s that support [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) (based on nutrient content analysis)
• May offer antibacterial effects through phytochemical content (preliminary in vitro evidence only)

## Mechanism of Action

Tomatillo's withanolides, including physalins and withanoside compounds, modulate inflammatory pathways by inhibiting nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation and reducing [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) production. The fruit's potassium content (292mg per 100g) acts as a natural vasodilator by activating sodium-potassium ATPase pumps in vascular smooth muscle. Soluble fiber components bind bile acids in the intestine, promoting cholesterol excretion and potentially lowering serum lipid levels.

## Clinical Summary

Currently, no human clinical trials have been conducted specifically on tomatillo supplementation or consumption for health benefits. The [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties of withanolides have been demonstrated only in laboratory cell culture studies using isolated compounds. Cardiovascular benefits are inferred from the fruit's potassium content based on established research on potassium's effects on [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health). The evidence base remains preliminary and requires human intervention studies to validate therapeutic potential.

## Nutritional Profile

Tomatillo (Physalis philadelphica) per 100g raw: Calories 32 kcal, Water 91.6g, Carbohydrates 5.8g, Dietary Fiber 1.9g (soluble and insoluble mix, contributing to moderate glycemic modulation), Sugars 3.9g, Protein 1.0g, Fat 1.0g (primarily polyunsaturated and monounsaturated). Key micronutrients: Vitamin C 11.7mg (13% DV, moderate bioavailability, heat-sensitive), Vitamin K 10.1mcg (8% DV, fat-soluble, bioavailability enhanced with dietary fat), Niacin (B3) 1.85mg (12% DV), Potassium 268mg (6% DV, readily bioavailable as ionic form), Phosphorus 39mg (4% DV), Magnesium 20mg (5% DV), Iron 0.6mg (non-heme, bioavailability ~5-12%, enhanced by co-consumed vitamin C), Copper 0.06mg, Manganese 0.15mg, Zinc 0.22mg, Calcium 7mg. Bioactive compounds: Withanolides (primarily withaphysalin variants and physalins A-F, concentrations range 0.01-0.05% dry weight, fat-soluble, limited oral bioavailability data in humans), Beta-carotene approximately 63mcg (provitamin A activity low due to limited conversion efficiency), Lutein and zeaxanthin trace amounts (~100-200mcg combined), Chlorogenic acid and flavonoids including quercetin and kaempferol glycosides present in moderate amounts (~50-100mg polyphenols per 100g estimated). The characteristic papery husk contains concentrated withanolides distinct from the fruit flesh. Cooking reduces vitamin C by approximately 30-40% but may increase polyphenol extractability. Tomatillos have a naturally acidic pH (3.8-4.5) which supports mineral stability during storage.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges exist for tomatillo extracts, powders, or standardized forms. It is consumed as a whole food in culinary amounts, typically in salsas or cooked dishes. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Tomatillo is generally recognized as safe when consumed as food, with no reported serious adverse effects in healthy individuals. As a nightshade family member, it may trigger allergic reactions in people sensitive to solanaceae plants. The fruit's potassium content could theoretically interact with ACE inhibitors or potassium-sparing diuretics, though clinical significance is unclear. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should limit consumption to normal dietary amounts due to insufficient safety data on concentrated extracts.

## Scientific Research

No human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses on tomatillo were identified in the research. All health claims are based on preliminary in vitro research on phytochemicals like withanolides or general nutrient content analysis, with no PubMed PMIDs available for human studies.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Domesticated by the Aztecs and Maya around 800 BCE in central Mexico and Mesoamerica, tomatillo served as a staple food crop. In traditional Mexican medicine, it has been used topically for skin irritations and insect bites, and consumed for digestive issues due to believed [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties.

## Synergistic Combinations

Other nightshade vegetables, vitamin C sources, potassium-rich foods, [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) fruits, fiber supplements

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What withanolides are found in tomatillo?

Tomatillo contains physalins A, B, and D, along with withanoside IV and other steroidal lactones. These compounds are concentrated in the fruit's outer husk and have demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory studies.

### How much potassium is in tomatillo compared to other fruits?

Tomatillo provides approximately 292mg of potassium per 100g serving, which is moderate compared to bananas (358mg) but higher than apples (107mg). This amount represents about 6% of the daily recommended potassium intake.

### Can tomatillo help lower cholesterol naturally?

Tomatillo contains 1.9g of dietary fiber per 100g, including soluble fiber that may help reduce cholesterol absorption. However, no clinical studies have specifically tested tomatillo's cholesterol-lowering effects in humans.

### Is tomatillo extract available as a supplement?

Tomatillo is not commonly available as a standardized supplement extract, unlike other nightshade family members. Most consumption occurs through whole fruit in traditional Mexican cuisine or as part of broader antioxidant formulations.

### What's the difference between tomatillo and ground cherry benefits?

Both Physalis species contain similar withanolide compounds, but tomatillo (P. philadelphica) is larger and has higher potassium content. Ground cherry (P. peruviana) contains more vitamin C and different ratios of physalin compounds, though research on both remains limited.

### Are there any known side effects or safety concerns with consuming tomatillo regularly?

Tomatillo is generally recognized as safe for consumption as a whole food and is widely used in culinary applications across Latin America. However, the plant's leaves and unripe fruit contain higher levels of compounds that may cause gastrointestinal irritation if consumed in large quantities, though ripe tomatillos are safe to eat. As with any high-fiber food, increasing tomatillo intake gradually and maintaining adequate hydration can minimize digestive adjustment. Individuals with nightshade sensitivities should consult a healthcare provider before regular consumption.

### Can I get sufficient tomatillo nutrients and withanolides from eating fresh tomatillos versus supplements?

Whole fresh tomatillos provide the full spectrum of nutrients including fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and phytocompounds in their natural food matrix, which often enhances bioavailability compared to isolated extracts. While tomatillo supplements exist, most clinical evidence on withanolides comes from related Physalis species rather than tomatillo-specific extracts, making the comparative efficacy unclear. Consuming one to two medium fresh tomatillos (approximately 150–200g) daily as part of a balanced diet is a practical way to obtain their nutrient benefits without relying on standardized supplements. Supplements may offer convenience but lack the well-established safety profile of whole food consumption over time.

### Does tomatillo interact with blood pressure or cholesterol medications?

Tomatillo's potassium content may have mild additive effects when combined with ACE inhibitors or potassium-sparing diuretics used for blood pressure management, potentially increasing serum potassium levels in susceptible individuals. While tomatillo contains fiber and antioxidants that theoretically support cholesterol metabolism, there is no documented direct interaction with statin medications or other lipid-lowering drugs. Individuals taking antihypertensive or cholesterol medications should consume tomatillo as part of their normal diet rather than in concentrated supplement form and inform their healthcare provider if making significant dietary changes. Medical consultation is particularly important for those with kidney disease or those taking medications that affect potassium balance.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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