1M. Ong’awa, 2L. Wasilwa, 2V. Kirigua, 3V. Ochieng, 4P. Omolo and 5H. Odhiambo
1Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO)
Busia ATC, Cell: 0703-565-303;
2KALRO Headquarters,lusike.wasilwa@kalro.org; violet.kirigua@kalro.org
3KALRO FCRI-Muguga South,vincentochieng1978@gmail.com
4KALRO Horticulture Research Institute-Kibos, ochiengomolo@gmail.com
5Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization, Mundika High School USAID FtF Intern; harun_odhiambo@yahoo.com: 0726-260-500
Corresponding Author: mercylineongawa@gmail.com
Cape gooseberry, Physalis peruviana, is a nutritionally important underutilized fruit with great therapeutic potential attributed to its rich macro and micronutrient content. It is laden with anti-inflammatory phytochemicals that contribute to its medicinal value as an antidiabetic, anticancer, and anti-hypertensive agent. P. peruviana is promoted for inclusion in human diets for a disease-free healthy life and general well-being.. Nutritionally, the fruit is highly valued for phytochemicals, such as antioxidants and vitamins E and C as well as its unique flavor, texture, and color. The diversity of applications to which P. peruviana can be put gives this fruit great economic importance. The food industry uses Cape gooseberry in different value-added products, including beverages, yoghurts, and jams. With the rapidly growing popularity of this unique fruit, it is important to have a comprehensive reference to its nutritional benefits, medicinal value, and phytochemical composition. This paper involves an in-depth review of important dietary nutrient types with pharmacological properties and their concentrations in P. peruviana that account for its nutritional and health benefits.
Keywords: Cape gooseberry, Physalis peruviana, underutilized fruit, phytochemical, value-added
