Table of Contents
Introduction:
Scientific Name: Benincasa Hispida
Family: Cucurbitaceae (gourd family)
Ash gourd, also known as winter melon or wax gourd, is a fruiting vegetable native to South and Southeast Asia. It is widely cultivated for its culinary and medicinal uses. The ash gourd fruit is large, oblong, and covered with a distinctive waxy coating that helps in preserving it.
When fully mature, the flesh is pale green to white and can be cooked in various dishes. The fruit can vary significantly in size, typically ranging from small to very large, weighing several kilograms.
The plant has large, lobed leaves and long, trailing vines that can spread extensively, often requiring ample space for growth. Ash gourd used to make sweets like Petha and savory dishes like curries and soups.
Ash Gourd Benefits Ayurveda:
Ash Gourd contains high fiber content makes it a champion for healthy digestion in ayurveda. It promotes regularity, relieves constipation, and its mild laxative properties are believed to cleanse the digestive tract and reduce bloating simply we called as digestive friendly.
In the Ayurveda medical system recognized liver as a key organ for detoxification also to support liver function and aid in the elimination of toxins from the body. The presence of vitamin C in ash gourd strengthens the immune system, making the body more resistant to infections and illnesses. Ash gourd can be applied topically to soothe skin irritation or inflammation by external use.
Topical application of ash gourd juice might irritate sensitive skin. It’s advisable to do a patch test on a small area of your arm before applying it to your face.
- Low in calories and high in water content, suitable for weight management.
- Reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
- Calms the mind, decrease stress and anxiety also treats respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis.
Ash Gourd Benefits for Skin:
It’s offering several potential benefits for skin health. Ash gourd has above 90% water content, making it a high and natural hydrator. Ash gourd promoting a healthy glow and reducing dryness of skin also consuming as juice or incorporating it into your diet can help keep your skin hydrated. In different regions, ash gourd juice is used topically as a natural cleanser to remove impurities, excess oil from the skin.
Ash Gourd Benefits for Liver:
It’s “blood purifier” and it helps the liver in eliminating toxins from the body. Some studies suggest ash gourd extracts might have antioxidant and hepatoprotective (liver-protecting) properties. Ash gourd extracts might have anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation can be detrimental to the liver, so these properties could be beneficial in some cases.
- It’s not a Replacement for medical treatment, If you have any liver concerns, consulting a qualified doctor is crucial. Ash gourd should not be used as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a doctor
Nutrition’s of Ash Gourd:
Nutritional Content of 100grams of raw Ash Gourd:
- Calories :13 kcal
- Protein :0.3 grams
- Fat :0.2 grams
- Carbohydrates :3 grams
- Fiber :3 grams
- Vitamin C :14 mg
- Riboflavin (B2) :0.2 mg
- Iron :0.4 mg
- Potassium :170 mg
Ash gourd is a good source of dietary fiber, promoting gut health and aiding digestion Studies suggest that ash gourd may contain antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
Vitamins in Ash Gourd:
It’s offers a good source of Vitamin C and some B vitamins.
Vitamin C crucial vitamin for a healthy immune system. It helps fight off infections and illnesses, promotes collagen production for healthy skin and tissues, and acts as an antioxidant to protect cells from damage. in the 100mg raw ash gourd provides approximately 17mg of Vitamin C.
Vitamin B play a vital role in various bodily functions.
They contribute to cell function, energy metabolism, red blood cell production and nervous system. several small amount Vitamin B includes, B1(Riboflavin) role in energy production and cell function, B2(Thiamine) Essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function, B3(Niacin) convert food into energy and supports brain function, Trace amounts of Vitamin B6 and pantothenic acid (B5) may also be present, but their content is minimal.
Note: These are approximate values, and the exact nutritional and Vitamins content of ash gourd can vary depending on factors like growing conditions and soil composition.
Availability of Ash Gourd:
Ash gourd is harvested in the fall and winter months in temperate climates. However, in tropical regions where the weather is warm year-round, it may be available throughout the year. Grocery stores and stores specializing in Asian and Indian groceries are more likely to carry ash gourd during its peak season. We may find it fresh or frozen, depending on the store.
Side Effects of Ash Gourd:
Ash gourd contains oxalates also bind with calcium in the body and increase the chance of kidney stones. People who was having kidney stones or those who are prone to them should be cautious about consuming more and more ash gourd.
Due to its cooling properties, ash gourd may interfere with the body’s natural process of fighting a fever. its basically a waxy nature, and excessive consumption or consuming it over a long period may lead to increased phlegm production. This can be a problem for people with asthma or bronchitis.
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Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ):
1.Can we drink ash gourd juice daily?
Ash gourd juice is generally safe, but consult a doctor before daily consumption to avoid potential side effects.
2.Does ash gourd have side effects?
Ash gourd can cause digestive issues, kidney stones in excess, and interfere with nutrient absorption if you consume more and more.
3.Is ash gourd good for kidneys?
Ash gourd may benefit kidneys in some ways but also contains oxalates which can increase kidney stone risk. Consult a doctor before consuming it for kidney health.
4.Is ash gourd can reduce belly fat?
Ash gourd itself likely won’t cause belly fat loss, but it may aid weight management efforts due to its low calorie and fiber content.
5.Does ash gourd juice detox the liver?
There isn’t enough scientific evidence to definitively say ash gourd juice detoxes the liver.
6.Is ash gourd good during pregnancy?
It’s better to consult a doctor before consuming ash gourd during pregnancy due to limited safety information.
7.Is ash gourd good during breast feeding?
There is not enough information to definitively say ash gourd is good or bad for breastfeeding. It is better to consult with a doctor before consuming.
8.Who Cannot drink ash gourd juice?
Who have with kidney problems, those with asthma or prone to excess phlegm, people on medication.
