Bush tomato: A mighty superfood that supports digestive health

02/24/2025 / By Zoey Sky

The bush tomato (Solanum centrale), also known as desert raisin, is a small, nutrient-rich fruit that has been a dietary staple for Indigenous Australians for over 40,000 years. It is celebrated for its unique flavor — tangy, earthy, and slightly smoky — and its vibrant golden-yellow to reddish-brown color.
Indigenous Australians have long used bush tomatoes for both food and medicinal purposes.
European settlers encountered the fruit in the 19th century, but it gained global recognition only recently as interest in Indigenous superfoods grew. Today, it is cultivated in small quantities in Australia and exported internationally.
Bush tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and E, potassium and dietary fiber. They also contain compounds that help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation, reducing risks of chronic diseases like arthritis and diabetes.
Bush tomatoes are versatile and can be used in traditional and modern dishes, such as chutneys and stews, and desserts like brownies.

The bush tomato (Solanum centrale) is a small but mighty fruit that has been a staple in the diets of Indigenous Australians for thousands of years.

Often referred to by its common names, such as desert raisin, kutjera or akudjura, this superfood is known for its unique flavor, rich nutritional profile and potential health benefits.

With its vibrant color, distinctive shape and complex taste, the bush tomato is not only a culinary delight but also a powerhouse of phytonutrients that may help prevent or reverse various health conditions.

Bush tomato: A closer look

Bush tomatoes are small, round fruits that typically measure about one to two centimeters in diameter.

When ripe, they exhibit a deep golden-yellow to reddish-brown hue, often with a slightly wrinkled texture that resembles a raisin. This appearance has earned them the nickname “desert raisin.”

The fruit’s flavor is complex, combining tangy, earthy and slightly sweet notes with a subtle smokiness.

Some describe the taste as reminiscent of sun-dried tomatoes, but with a more intense and unique flavor profile that makes it a standout ingredient in both traditional and modern cuisine.

Historical and cultural significance

The bush tomato has a rich history deeply intertwined with the culture and traditions of Indigenous Australian communities. For thousands of years, these communities have harvested and consumed the fruit, using it as food and medicine.

The plant thrives in the arid and semi-arid regions of central Australia, where it has adapted to survive in harsh, dry conditions.

European settlers first encountered the bush tomato during their explorations of the Australian outback in the 19th century. However, it wasn’t until recent decades that the fruit gained attention beyond its native land, as global interest in Indigenous foods and superfoods began to rise.

Today, bush tomatoes are cultivated in small quantities, primarily in Australia, and are increasingly exported to international markets. (Related: Bilberries: The wild blueberry powerhouse of antioxidants and flavor.)

Nutritional composition and phytonutrients

Bush tomatoes are a rich source of essential nutrients, including vitamins C and E, potassium and dietary fiber. However, what truly sets them apart is their impressive array of phytonutrients, which contribute to their health-promoting properties. These phytonutrients include:

Carotenoids – Known for their antioxidant properties, carotenoids help protect cells from oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Flavonoids – These compounds have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects, supporting overall health.
Phenolic acids – These antioxidants help combat free radicals and may play a role in preventing conditions like cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Saponins – Found in many medicinal plants, saponins have been shown to support heart health and reduce cholesterol levels.

Health benefits and potential therapeutic uses

The nutrient-dense profile of bush tomatoes makes them a valuable addition to a health-conscious diet.

Research suggests that consuming bush tomatoes may offer the following benefits:

Helps protect against oxidative stress and inflammation– The high levels of antioxidants in bush tomatoes help neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are linked to chronic diseases such as arthritis, diabetes and heart disease.
Boosts cardiovascular health – The combination of potassium, flavonoids and saponins in bush tomatoes can support heart health by regulating blood pressure, reducing cholesterol levels and improving blood vessel function.
Boosts immune health – The vitamin C in bush tomatoes can support immune function, helping the body fight off infections and illnesses.
Supports digestive health – The dietary fiber in bush tomatoes promotes healthy digestion and may help prevent constipation and other gastrointestinal issues.
Boosts skin health – The carotenoids and vitamin E in bush tomatoes contribute to skin health by protecting against UV damage and promoting collagen production.

Culinary applications and recipe ideas

Bush tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, both traditional and contemporary. Their intense flavor makes them an excellent addition to sauces, dips and marinades.

Here are a few recipe ideas that showcase the unique taste of bush tomatoes:

Bush tomato chutney – A tangy and slightly sweet condiment that pairs well with grilled meats or cheese platters.
Kutjera-infused lamb stew – A hearty dish that combines the smoky flavor of bush tomatoes with tender lamb and aromatic spices.
Akudjura-spiced roasted vegetables – A flavorful side dish featuring roasted root vegetables seasoned with ground bush tomato powder.
Bush tomato and macadamia dip – A creamy dip made with roasted bush tomatoes and crushed macadamia nuts, perfect for spreading on crackers or bread.
Bush tomato and wattleseed brownies – A unique dessert that incorporates the earthy notes of bush tomatoes with the nutty flavor of wattleseed for a truly Australian twist.

The bush tomato is a testament to the rich culinary and medicinal heritage of Indigenous Australians. With its impressive nutrient profile and potential health benefits, this superfood is poised to become a staple in kitchens around the world.

This story is not medical advice and is not intended to treat or cure any disease. Always consult with a qualified naturopathic physician for personalized advice about your specific health situation or concern.

Visit NaturalNews.com, an excellent resource for articles where you can explore the world of superfoods and discover their numerous health benefits.

You can also try Brighteon.ai, an AI model created by Mike Adams, also known as the Health Ranger. This model is available as a free download to be run locally and is designed to help share and decentralize knowledge. By doing so, it aims to bypass censorship and empower people with knowledge.

If you’re looking for an uncensored video free speech website where you can openly discuss nutrition, natural medicine, ingredients and more, go to Brighteon.com.

Brighteon.IO and Brighteon.social are two free speech-focused social media platforms where users can openly discuss topics such as health, nutrition, ingredient safety, toxicity and related subjects without fear of censorship. These platforms aim to provide a space for unrestricted dialogue on critical issues.

Watch this clip about the health benefits of Organic Maitake Mushroom Powder and Organic Reishi Mushroom Powder.

This video is from the Health Ranger Store channel on Brighteon.com.