Tomatoes - Solanum Lycopersicum - Tamatar
Tomatoes
Without the tomato, a recipe is incomplete and was originally known as a golden fruit. The health benefits of tomatoes outweigh their delectable taste. The best source of calories is magnesium, potassium, antioxidants, and vitamin C (which are capable of fighting any disease). Without ripe, juicy tomatoes, no dish can be called complete. Scientifically identified as “Solanum Lycopersicum,” tomatoes are also referred to as “tamatar” or “tamaatar” in popular culture. Its high nutritional content and numerous uses explain why it has always been in high demand throughout the world. They are a staple of the diets of the majority of people. It improves people’s health in a variety of ways that are fascinating to investigate.
Synonyms of Tomatoes
- Solanum Lycopersicum
- Tamatar
Nutritional Facts of Tomatoes
Nutritional value per 100 g
| Energy: | 74 kJ (18 kcal) |
| Carbohydrates: | 3.9 g |
| Sugars: | 2.6 g |
| Dietary fiber: | 1.2 g |
| Fat: | 0.2 g |
| Protein: | 0.9 g |
Phytochemical Constituents of Tomatoes
- Carotenoids (lycopene, phytoene, and β-carotene) and polyphenols (flavonoids, flavanones, and flavones)
Therapeutic Uses of Tomatoes
- Prevents Constipation
Fruits like tomatoes are diuretics. Meals high in water and fiber, such as those with tomatoes, may help with hydration and encourage regular bowel movements. It’s because insoluble fibers don’t dissolve in water. As a result, they do not disintegrate food particles, which allows the body to expel them by increasing the stool’s volume. They contribute around 10% of the recommended daily fiber intake, enhancing digestion and bowel movements.
- Skin Miracles
In addition to being rich in potassium and vitamin C, tomatoes contain acidic qualities. These nutrients brighten and enhance dull skin. They also contain lycopene, an antioxidant that aids the body in fighting free radicals. In addition, it helps heal skin conditions brought on by UV exposure and aging, making it a superior skin rejuvenator. Additionally, tomatoes’ astringent properties help to lessen excess sebum on the surface of the skin. As a result, it restricts oil production and lessens the probability of developing blackheads and whiteheads.
- Tomatoes Diminish Inflammation
Zeta-carotene, phytofluene, and phytoene, three additional antioxidants found in most brilliantly colored fruits and vegetables, are also present in tomatoes. These antioxidants aid in the battle against inflammatory disorders like cancer and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Good During Pregnancy
One of the nutrients that every pregnant woman needs to keep both her and her unborn child healthy is vitamin C. It promotes the growth of strong bones, teeth, and gums. Additionally, this vitamin helps the body properly absorb iron, another essential component during pregnancy.
- Help Restoration Damage Caused By Smoking
Tomatoes can lessen the harm smoking does to your health. To protect the body from the toxins in cigarette smoke, tomatoes contain coumaric acid and chlorogenic acid.
Home Remedies of Tomatoes
- Lose weight
One method of preventing obesity is to consume more tomatoes because they have several health benefits. Tomatoes burn fat to help you lose weight. You can consume tomatoes in any form to lose weight.
- Increase appetite
The faster food is digested, the quicker the body receives energy, vitamins, and other nutrients. The tomato aids in food digesting.
- Control diabetes
A diabetic patient can control their diabetes by eating 1 to 2 tomatoes every day.
- Improve skin
Making a tomato face pack and using it on the skin has several advantages. Tomatoes naturally boost the glow on the skin.
- Anemia
In the treatment of anemia at home, tomatoes are more advantageous. The concentration of vitamins, minerals, magnesium, iron, and calcium in tomatoes is astounding. Blood is replaced when tomatoes are consumed in the form of juice, salad, or vegetables.
Ayurvedic Aspects of Tomatoes
According to Ayurveda, tomatoes increase passion and heat while also accumulating toxins. According to Ayurvedic theory, tomatoes raise all three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—but notably Pitta. It is extremely juicy and lessens the strength of Agni, the digestive fire.
Daily Dose: 7 mg per day is beneficial
Side Effects of Tomatoes
- Allergies And Infection
Histamine, a substance found in tomatoes, can cause skin rashes or allergic responses. As a result, among other symptoms of a tomato allergy, mouth, tongue, and facial puffiness, sneezing, and throat infection may also occur. Tobacco can also result in allergic contact dermatitis. If you are allergic, even simply touching the fruit will cause your skin to become extremely irritated and inflamed.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Too much consumption of tomatoes can result in IBS. Additionally, tomatoes might cause bloating if you already have IBS.
- Urinary Problems
Urinary incontinence may be caused by the bladder becoming irritated by acidic meals like tomatoes. Tomatoes can also result in bladder issues, including cystitis in some circumstances (burning sensation in the bladder).
- Acid Reflux/Heartburn
Because of their acidity, tomatoes may give you heartburn. Additional items that may cause reflux include tomatoes and tomato sauce.
Additionally, tomatoes may make GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) symptoms worse.
References
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tomato
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6045986/#:~:text=Nutrients%20like%20 Vitamin%20A%2C%20 ascorbic,in%20tomato%20(Tan%20et%20al.
Article Written By: Dr. Sahil Gupta, Ayurvedic Allergy Specialist
Google Reviews
Book on Ayurvedic Aspects of Allergies and Fungal Infections.
Book on Child Health and Ayurveda.
