Maná Cubiu (Solanum sessiflorum), cubiu or Indian tomato is an Amazonian plant that belongs to the Solanaceae family, the same family as tomatoes, eggplants, and potatoes. It is planted in regions with very high temperatures. Its characteristics inside are reminiscent of eggplant, but its skin is harder and its flavor is very peculiar.
It is an edible berry that is red, orange, or yellow in color and has thin, resistant skin. It is covered with a fuzz similar to that of a peach. Its mild flavor is a bit reminiscent of tomatoes and its pulp has a slight acidity, like that of a lemon.
This native fruit is rich in iron, phosphorus, fiber, proteins, vitamins (vitamin B5, vitamin C and niacin – or vitamin B3), and mineral salts and is used by regional populations (in the Amazon) as herbal medicine, as a way to control diabetes, uric acid, cholesterol.
Its niacin (vitamin B3) level is three times higher than eggplant and twelve times higher than beetroot. This vitamin is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system and the good performance of brain functions. In addition, it promotes benefits for the skin and helps reduce cholesterol, triglycerides and blood glucose levels.
Mana Cubiu Fruit.