# Tree Tomato

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/tree-tomato
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-15
**Evidence Score:** 4 / 10
**Category:** Fruit
**Also Known As:** Solanum betaceum, Tamarillo, Andean Tree Tomato, Tomate de Árbol

## Overview

Tree Tomato (Solanum betaceum) delivers potent antioxidant activity through β-carotene (up to 460.72 µg g⁻¹), anthocyanins (1.06-240.49 mg cy-3-glu 100 g⁻¹), and vitamin C (78.29-420.16 mg 100 g⁻¹). These compounds inhibit [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) markers including TNF-α, IL-1β, and NF-κB while scavenging [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant).

## Health Benefits

- **Supports cardiovascular wellness**: by improving circulation and maintaining healthy [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health).
- **Enhances immune resilience**: through its high vitamin C and antioxidant content.
- **Modulates metabolic balance,**: potentially aiding in blood sugar regulation and lipid [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management).
- **Promotes [digestive health](/ingredients/condition/gut-health)**: via its dietary fiber and pectin content, supporting gut motility.
- **Supports [cognitive function](/ingredients/condition/cognitive)**: by reducing [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and protecting neural cells.
- **Contributes to skin**: health and vitality through its vitamins A, C, E, and antioxidant compounds.
- **Aids detoxification pathways,**: supporting the body's natural cleansing processes.

## Mechanism of Action

Tree Tomato's β-carotene (10-50 µM) inhibits inflammatory enzymes iNOS and COX-2 while suppressing [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s TNF-α and IL-1β through NF-κB pathway modulation. Lycopene content (0.5-2 µM) reduces [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and 8-OHdG formation while inhibiting NOX-4 enzyme activity. Polyphenols demonstrate α-amylase inhibition via hydrogen bonding interactions, with quercetin achieving 82.1% inhibition at IC₅₀ concentrations.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence derives primarily from in vitro studies and compositional analyses, with no published human clinical trials specifically examining Tree Tomato. Cell culture studies using isolated compounds show lycopene (2.5-10 µM) inducing cell cycle arrest in LNCaP and HCT-116 cancer cell lines while reducing cholesterol via HMG-CoA reductase inhibition. [Antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity measurements reach 312.30 µM Trolox g⁻¹ in laboratory assays. Controlled human trials are necessary to establish therapeutic efficacy and optimal dosing protocols.

## Nutritional Profile

- Dietary fiber, Pectin ([digestive health](/ingredients/condition/gut-health)).
- Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E ([antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant), immune, [skin health](/ingredients/condition/skin-health)).
- Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium (essential minerals).
- Anthocyanins, Carotenoids, Flavonoids, Polyphenols, Ellagic acid (potent antioxidants).

## Dosage & Preparation

- Common forms: Fresh fruit, juice, extracts.
- Dosage: 100–150 grams of fresh fruit daily, or 500–1000 mg of extract daily.
- Timing: Can be consumed daily as part of a balanced diet or wellness regimen.
- Culinary use: Eaten fresh, blended into smoothies, or used in savory dishes.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

No adverse effects, drug interactions, or contraindications have been reported in available research for Tree Tomato consumption. In vitro studies using concentrations up to 50 µM of constituent compounds showed no toxicity in tested cell lines. However, the absence of human safety data necessitates caution, particularly during pregnancy and lactation. Individuals on anticoagulant medications should consult healthcare providers due to potential vitamin K interactions.

## Scientific Research

Scientific research, including in vitro and preliminary human studies, highlights Tree Tomato's rich [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) profile, particularly its anthocyanins and carotenoids. Studies suggest potential benefits for [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health), metabolic regulation, and [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support). Further clinical trials are warranted to fully elucidate its therapeutic potential and optimal dosages.

## Historical & Cultural Context

In Andean traditional medicine, Tree Tomato has been historically consumed as a rejuvenating fruit for circulation, [digestion](/ingredients/condition/gut-health), and energy. It was used in juices, teas, and poultices as a functional remedy for [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health), respiratory issues, and [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation). The fruit holds cultural significance as a staple food and medicinal plant in the region.

## Synergistic Combinations

Role: Polyphenol/[antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) base
Intention: Cardio & Circulation | Cognition & Focus
Primary Pairings: - Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
- Camu Camu
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
- Maca Root (Lepidium meyenii)

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the vitamin C content of Tree Tomato compared to regular tomatoes?

Tree Tomato contains 78.29-420.16 mg vitamin C per 100g, significantly higher than regular tomatoes which typically contain 13-23 mg per 100g. This makes Tree Tomato one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C among fruits.

### How much β-carotene does Tree Tomato provide?

Tree Tomato delivers up to 460.72 µg β-carotene per gram of fruit, with group 8 accessions showing particularly high concentrations of 339.66 µg per gram. This β-carotene content contributes to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

### Are there any proven health benefits from human studies?

Currently, no human clinical trials have been published specifically testing Tree Tomato's health effects. Available evidence comes from in vitro studies and compositional analyses, making human trials necessary to confirm therapeutic benefits.

### Can Tree Tomato help with blood sugar control?

In vitro studies show Tree Tomato polyphenols inhibit α-amylase enzyme activity, with quercetin achieving 82.1% inhibition at IC₅₀ concentrations. However, human studies are needed to confirm blood sugar regulation effects in diabetic patients.

### What makes Tree Tomato different from regular tomatoes nutritionally?

Tree Tomato contains significantly higher levels of anthocyanins (1.06-240.49 mg cy-3-glu per 100g), β-carotene (up to 460.72 µg/g), and vitamin C compared to regular tomatoes. These compounds provide superior antioxidant capacity reaching 312.30 µM Trolox equivalents per gram.

### Is Tree Tomato safe to consume during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Tree Tomato is generally recognized as safe for consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding when eaten in typical food amounts, as it is a whole fruit with a long history of use in traditional diets. However, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before taking concentrated supplements or extracts, as safety data from clinical trials in these populations is limited. The fruit's high vitamin C and antioxidant content may be beneficial, but individualized medical guidance is recommended.

### Does Tree Tomato interact with blood pressure or diabetes medications?

Tree Tomato may have mild interactions with blood pressure medications due to its potential circulatory and hypotensive properties, and with diabetes medications due to its blood sugar-modulating effects. While whole fruit consumption in typical dietary amounts is unlikely to cause significant interactions, those taking prescription medications for hypertension or diabetes should inform their healthcare provider about regular Tree Tomato supplementation. Medical supervision is particularly important when combining supplements with medications that affect similar physiological pathways.

### What is the most effective form of Tree Tomato supplement—fresh fruit, powder, or extract?

Fresh Tree Tomato fruit preserves the highest content of heat-sensitive vitamin C and volatile compounds, making it ideal for maximum nutrient density and bioavailability. Dried powder and extracts offer convenience and concentrated bioactive compounds like polyphenols and carotenoids, though some processing may reduce certain vitamins. The choice depends on individual preference and intended use: fresh fruit for whole-food nutrition, or standardized extracts when targeting specific benefits like antioxidant support.

## References

Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33014723; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464620303698; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7198654/

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