Where is the tomato native to? Let us take you through the origins of the tomato

Tomato, also called persimmon tomato, xi hong shi, or foreign persimmon, is a crop introduced from abroad; its flavor is intense and it is rich in nutrients, and it is grown in all parts of our country. So where is its native origin? What effects and benefits does eating it have?

Where is the tomato native to?

The tomato is native to South America, and the center of its origin is the Andean region. In Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia and other places, large areas of wild species are still distributed to this day. Moreover, it was introduced to Asian countries one after another in the 17th century, and the tomatoes cultivated in our country were introduced from Europe or Southeast Asia.

What effects and benefits does eating tomatoes have?

1. Tomatoes contain vitamins and mineral elements that have a protective effect on the cardiovascular system and can reduce the occurrence of heart disease.

2. Lycopene has a unique antioxidant capacity; it can scavenge free radicals, protect cells, keep deoxyribonucleic acid and genes from being damaged, and can block the process of cancerous change. Besides having a preventive effect on prostate cancer, tomatoes can also effectively reduce the risk of developing pancreatic cancer, rectal cancer, laryngeal cancer, oral cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer and other cancers.

3. The vitamin C in tomatoes has the effects of promoting fluid production and quenching thirst, strengthening the stomach and aiding digestion, cooling the blood and calming the liver, clearing heat and detoxifying, and lowering blood pressure, and it has a good adjunctive therapeutic effect on patients with hypertension and kidney disease. Eating more tomatoes has an anti-aging effect and keeps the skin fair.

4. Niacin can maintain the normal secretion of gastric juice, promote the formation of red blood cells, and help maintain the elasticity of blood vessel walls and protect the skin. Therefore, eating tomatoes is also helpful for preventing and treating arteriosclerosis, hypertension and coronary heart disease. Tomatoes are juicy and can promote urination, so patients with nephritis are also suitable to eat them.

5. For patients who frequently experience bleeding gums or subcutaneous bleeding, eating tomatoes helps improve the symptoms.

6. The malic acid or citric acid contained in tomatoes helps gastric juice digest fat and protein.

Although tomatoes have many effects and benefits, unripe ones are not suitable for eating. Women who drink them on an empty stomach or during menstruation should also eat them with caution, to avoid adverse reactions.