THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF PHYSALIS PERUVIANA (CAPE GOOSEBERRY) IN MITIGATING RISK FACTORS AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

Abstract

A significant global health concern, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) include metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cancer, renal disorders, and inflammatory conditions. Their multifactorial pathophysiology involves chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic dysfunction. A nutrient-dense fruit bearing plant with a long history of traditional medicinal use, Physalis peruviana (Cape Gooseberry) has recently drawn scientific attention for its diverse therapeutic potential against several NCDs. The botany, phytochemical profile, and preclinical data demonstrating P. peruviana's effectiveness in modifying important pathological pathways associated with the onset and progression of NCDs are all thoroughly examined in this review. P. peruviana is a plant rich in phenolics, flavonoids, withanolides, and phytosterols. It has strong anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, anti-cancer, nephro-, hepato-, and anti-arthritic properties. P. peruviana therapy is consistently associated with improved glycaemic management, lipid modification, tumor suppression, renal protection, and a reduction in joint inflame mation in both rodent and in vitro models. Clinical translation still faces obstacles despite encouraging preclinical results, such as the requirement for carefully planned human studies, standardized extract formulation, and enhanced bioavailability of important phyto-constituents. Furthermore, cautious processing and dose considerations are required due to safety concerns regarding solanine in unripe fruits. To fully realize the therapeutic promise of this adaptable plant, future studies should concentrate on thorough molecular analyses, sophisticated delivery methods, and rigorous clinical evaluation. All things considered, Physalis peruviana is a powerful multi-target functional food that has great potential for reducing the intricate pathophysiology of NCDs.