Sundakkai / Turkey Berries




Turkey berries (Solanum torvum) are small, green, pea-sized berries that grow in clusters on a shrub. They are commonly used in traditional medicine and cooking, especially in South and Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean.

Health Benefits of Turkey Berries
1. Rich in Nutrients – Contains iron, calcium, vitamin C, and antioxidants.

2. Boosts Hemoglobin – Used to treat anemia due to its high iron content.

3. Supports Digestion – Helps with indigestion, bloating, and intestinal issues.

4. Regulates Blood Sugar – May help manage diabetes by controlling glucose levels.

5. Anti-inflammatory Properties – Beneficial for arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

6. Fights Infections – Has antimicrobial properties that help combat infections.

7. Good for Heart Health – Aids in reducing high blood pressure and cholesterol.

Culinary Uses
Used in curries, stir-fries, and soups (especially in South Indian and Thai cuisine).

Can be dried and powdered for use in herbal teas or supplements.

Sometimes pickled or blended into chutneys.

Medicinal Uses of Turkey Berries:
For Anemia: Consume dried turkey berry powder with honey or milk.

For Digestion: Fried turkey berries are used in Ayurvedic medicine to relieve stomach issues.

For Diabetes & Blood Pressure: Drinking turkey berry tea (boiling dried berries in water) may help regulate sugar and blood pressure levels.Turkey Berry (Solanum torvum) – Health Benefits & Nutritional Value

Nutritional Composition (Per 100g of Turkey Berries)
Calories: ~50-70 kcal
Carbohydrates: ~9-12g
Protein: ~3-5g
Fats: ~1g
Fiber: ~2-4g
Iron: ~5-7mg
Calcium: ~30-50mg
Potassium: ~250-300mg
Vitamin C: ~20-30mg
Vitamin A: ~200 IU
Antioxidants: Polyphenols, flavonoids

Health Benefits of Turkey Berries
1. Improves Hemoglobin & Prevents Anemia
Rich in iron, turkey berries help treat and prevent anemia, especially in women and children.

2. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Compounds in turkey berries support glucose metabolism, making them beneficial for diabetics.

3. Aids Digestion & Treats Stomach Issues
Helps reduce bloating, acidity, ulcers, and indigestion. Dried turkey berry powder is commonly used for gut health.

4. Supports Heart Health
Helps reduce high blood pressure, cholesterol, and the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

5. Boosts Immunity
High in vitamin C and antioxidants, turkey berries strengthen the immune system and fight infections.

6. Anti-Inflammatory & Pain Relief
Helps reduce joint pain, arthritis, and swelling due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

7. Protects the Liver & Kidneys
Supports liver detoxification and prevents kidney infections.

8. Fights Bacterial & Fungal Infections
Used in traditional medicine to treat wounds, cough, colds, and respiratory issues.


Turkey berries, also known as Solanum torvum, are native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean. They are a type of fruit-bearing shrub or small tree that belongs to the nightshade family (Solanaceae).

Here's a brief overview of the origin and history of turkey berries:

Origin and History
1. *Native Range*: Turkey berries are native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, including countries such as Mexico, Costa Rica, and Brazil.
2. *Caribbean Introduction*: They were introduced to the Caribbean region by early settlers and have since become naturalized in many islands.
3. *Asian and African Introduction*: Turkey berries were later introduced to Asia and Africa by European colonizers and have since become established in many tropical and subtropical regions.

Cultivation and Uses
1. *Food*: Turkey berries are edible and are often eaten raw or used in jams, preserves, and sauces.
2. *Medicine*: The fruit, leaves, and roots of the turkey berry plant have been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, including treating fever, rheumatism, and digestive issues.
3. *Ornamental*: Turkey berry plants are also grown as ornamentals due to their attractive flowers and fruit.

Overall, turkey berries have a rich history and have been cultivated and used for various purposes in many parts of the world.

Turkey berries,are widely used in India, particularly in traditional medicine and cuisine. Here are some of the uses of turkey berries in India:

Culinary Uses
1. *Vegetable dishes*: Turkey berries are used in various vegetable dishes, such as curries, stews, and stir-fries.
2. *Chutneys and pickles*: The berries are used to make chutneys and pickles, which are served as condiments.
3. *Soups*: Turkey berries are added to soups for their flavor and nutritional value.

Medicinal Uses
1. *Digestive issues*: Turkey berries are used in traditional Indian medicine to treat digestive issues, such as constipation, diarrhea, and indigestion.
2. *Fever and rheumatism*: The berries are used to treat fever, rheumatism, and other inflammatory conditions.
3. *Skin and hair care*: Turkey berries are used in traditional Indian medicine to treat skin and hair problems, such as acne, eczema, and dandruff.

Ayurvedic Properties
1. *Tridoshic*: Turkey berries are considered tridoshic, meaning they balance all three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha).
2. *Rasayana*: The berries are considered rasayana, meaning they have rejuvenating and anti-aging properties.

Regional Variations
1. *South India*: In South India, turkey berries are commonly used in traditional dishes, such as sambar and kootu.
2. *North India*: In North India, the berries are used in pickles and chutneys.
3. *East India*: In East India, turkey berries are used in traditional medicine to treat various health conditions.

Overall, turkey berries are a versatile and nutritious ingredient in India, used in various culinary and medicinal applications.

In South India, turkey berries are commonly used in various dishes, particularly in:

Karnataka
1. *Sigekai Palya*: A spicy stir-fry made with turkey berries, onions, and spices.
2. *Sigekai Sambar*: A flavorful lentil-based vegetable stew made with turkey berries, lentils, and spices.

Kerala
1. *Kovakka Thoran*: A spicy stir-fry made with turkey berries, coconut, and spices.
2. *Kovakka Sambar*: A flavorful lentil-based vegetable stew made with turkey berries, lentils, and spices.

Andhra Pradesh
1. *Tella Sigekai*: A spicy stir-fry made with turkey berries, onions, and spices.
2. *Sigekai Pulusu*: A flavorful stew made with turkey berries, tamarind, and spices.

Tamil Nadu
1. *Sundekkai Sambar*: A flavorful lentil-based vegetable stew made with turkey berries, lentils, and spices.
2. *Sundekkai Kootu*: A thick and spicy vegetable stew made with turkey berries, vegetables, lentils, and spices.
3. *Sundekkai Fry*: A crispy and flavorful side dish made with sautéed turkey berries, onions, and spices.

These are just a few examples of how turkey berries are commonly used in South Indian cuisine.

But after Coming to Singapore,being Tamil as largely dominated race of India in Singapore, these tiny berries are known as Sundakkai and it's availability in fresh or raw form is only from India part of Singapore. 

In Tamil Nadu, turkey berries are known as "Sundekkai" (சுண்டைக்காய்) in Tamil. They are a common ingredient in traditional Tamil cuisine, particularly in rural areas.

Fresh Sundakkai: Available at Kiasu Mart in 250g-300g packs. These berries are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a healthy addition to your meals.

https://kiasumart.com/product/fresh-sundakkai-turkey-berry-300g/

Culinary Uses
1. *Sundekkai Sambar*: Turkey berries are used to make a flavorful sambar, a popular lentil-based vegetable stew in Tamil Nadu.
2. *Sundekkai Kootu*: They are also used to make a kootu, a thick and spicy vegetable stew made with a combination of vegetables, lentils, and spices.
3. *Sundekkai Fry*: Turkey berries are often sautéed with spices and chilies to make a crispy and flavorful side dish.

I have tried regularly whenever available at Tekka in Singapore, Dry / Gravy Fries,Powder. 
Medicinal Properties
1. *Digestive Issues*: In traditional Tamil medicine, turkey berries are believed to have digestive properties and are used to treat digestive issues such as constipation and diarrhea.
2. *Fever and Rheumatism*: The berries are also used to treat fever, rheumatism, and other inflammatory conditions.

Availability
Turkey berries are widely available in Tamil Nadu, particularly in rural areas. They can be found in local markets, especially during the summer months when they are in season.

Shivratri -26th Feb, 
Turkey berries (Sundakkai) are considered a sacred offering to Lord Shiva during the festival of Maha Shivratri.

Here are some interesting facts about the connection between turkey berries and Shivratri:

Offerings to Lord Shiva
Devotees offer turkey berries to Lord Shiva as a symbol of devotion and surrender.

Sacred Fruit
Turkey berries are considered a sacred fruit in Shaivism, and are believed to possess spiritual significance.

Rituals and Pujas
During Maha Shivratri, devotees perform special pujas and rituals, offering turkey berries to Lord Shiva.

Symbolism
The fruit is believed to symbolize the union of the individual self with the divine, representing spiritual growth and enlightenment.

This connection highlights the significance of turkey berries in Hindu culture and their association with spiritual practices.

Stay Aware Stay Safe Stay Care 
Urs Truly @shroffpadmap 📚

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