Pygmy Groundcherry
Physalis minima
Physalis minima, also known as ground cherry or golden berry, is a plant traditionally used in folk medicine but lacks specific documented uses. Scientific studies have identified various phytoconstituents, with withanolides being the primary bioactive compounds, showing potential for managing inflammatory and cancer-related conditions. Five new withanolides were isolated from Physalis minima, demonstrating moderate to weak in vitro anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, a study sequenced and characterized the plastid genome of Physalis minima from Malaysia, revealing differences compared to a Chinese accession, and four novel withanolides showed moderate anti-inflammatory activity. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for this plant.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study documents various phytoconstituents in Physalis minima, with withanolides being the primary bioactive compounds, though their therapeutic potential remains partially unexplored.
- The study sequenced and analyzed the plastid genome of Physalis minima from Malaysia, revealing differences when compared to a Chinese accession.
- Five new withanolides were identified from Physalis minima, showing moderate to weak in vitro anti-inflammatory effects.
- Four novel withanolides were isolated from Physalis minima and showed moderate anti-inflammatory activity.
Frequently asked questions
What is Pygmy Groundcherry?
Pygmy Groundcherry (Physalis minima) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Pygmy Groundcherry?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Pygmy Groundcherry; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study documents various phytoconstituents in Physalis minima, with withanolides being the primary bioactive compounds, though their therapeutic potential remains partially unexplored.
How strong is the evidence for Pygmy Groundcherry?
The strongest finding for Pygmy Groundcherry carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Pygmy Groundcherry safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Pygmy Groundcherry in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Pygmy Groundcherry interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Pygmy Groundcherry in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Pygmy Groundcherry a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Structural elucidation of anti-inflammatory withanolides from Physalis minima. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Characterisation and Phylogenetic Analysis of the Complete Plastid Genome of Physalis minima L. from Malaysia. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Withanolides from Physalis minima as potential anti-inflammatory agents: From isolation to in vitro and in vivo validation. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Physalis minima L.: A comprehensive review on phytochemistry, pharmacology, and food applications. literature abstract metadata