Question about tomatillos

[cookingmonkey]

This may be a dumb question, but here it goes. I am allergic to tomatoes, can I still eat tomatillos? I don't know if they are in the same family or related in anyway, but any info is appreciated. Thanks.

[kirkbyky]

Ok, I'm not a doctor & you should REALLY ask one, but here's what I found.

Tomatillo (Physalis ixocarpa) is related to the chinese lantern plant & ground cherry.

Common tomato (Lycopersicon lycopersicum) is a member of the deadly nightshade family along with potato's and others.

So there not the same species, BUT whatever you're allergic to in tomato's MAY still be in tomatillo's--ie: the acid etc.

My tomatillo plants look more like pepper plants than tomato's.
Odd.

Kyle

[Deanna]

Let me think for a moment...the tomatilla is (I believe) related to the gooseberry, and I think (somebody correct me if I'm wrong!) another name for gooseberry is ground cherry.

I would say the two are NOT related. But again, I'd check with my allergist before giving it a try. They're very good, but NOT worth risking an allergic reaction!

[cookingmonkey]

Thanks for the info. I am allergic to all the nightshade veggies...potatoes, peppers, tomatoes and eggplants, but I will talk to the doctor before trying them. Thanks again, you've been a great help.

[Vanessa]

I am allergic to tomato and I cannot eat tomatillo. They are from the same family.