Tag: Otaheite gooseberry

While cultivated for its edible fruit in many regions, the safety of consuming *Phyllanthus acidus* depends significantly on which part of the plant you use. The sweet and sour star gooseberry fruit is a pantry staple in some countries, but the root bark contains compounds that are mildly toxic.

Over 90% of the star gooseberry fruit is water, yet its intensely tart flavor is anything but watered down. But beyond its unique taste, a common question arises: are star gooseberries edible and safe for consumption? The fruit of the *Phyllanthus acidus* tree is indeed edible, but its extreme sourness means it is rarely eaten raw and often used in various processed forms.