Herb guide › Alkekengi (Chinese Lantern Plant)
Alkekengi (Chinese Lantern Plant)
Alkekengi officinarum syn. Physalis alkekengi is a perennial with oval leaves, small white flowers, and bright orange-red berries enclosed in papery lantern-like calyces. The ripe fruit is mildly tart and fruity. Unripe fruit, leaves, roots, and calyx require caution because potentially toxic compounds occur in these parts. These orange lantern-like fruit also known as winter cherry.
Traditionally used for
Water retention, Digestive discomfort, Nutritional deficiency
Potential benefits
Antioxidant, vitamin C, digestive aid, urinary tract support, anti-inflammatory, diuretic properties
Ingredients
Ripe fruit Alkekengi (Chinese Lantern Plant)
Origin
China, Japan, Korea, Russia, Central Europe
How it is traditionally prepared
2–3g dried fruit/day or 1 cup tea.
Cautions and who should avoid it
Do not use unripe fruit, leaves, roots, or calyx as tea. Safety varies by plant part; recent research also reports toxicity concerns with concentrated fruit and calyx extracts. High doses may irritate kidneys.
Get tea recommendations for how you feel, and keep a journal of what works for you.