Benefits of Winter melon Ash gourd / Wax gourd
Benincasa hispida, the wax gourd, also called ash gourd, white gourd, winter gourd, winter melon, tallow gourd, ash pumpkin, Chinese preserving melon is a vine grown for its very large fruit, eaten as a vegetable when mature. It is the only member of the genus Benincasa. It is native to South and Southeast Asia.
Winter melon is actually a huge vine vegetable with pale white flesh and a fuzzy inside, despite the fact that the word “melon” could lead some people to assume it is a fruit. Winter melon, the only species in the genus Benincasa, is also known as ash gourd, fuzzy gourd, and tallow gourd.
The melon has a little sweetness while it is young, but as it ages, that sweetness disappears and is replaced by a blander flavour that is more like to a cucumber. In Asia, notably in China, the winter melon plant is widely utilised for both culinary and medicinal uses. Similar to melons that can grow up to 80 cm long and be kept in storage for months without turning bad.
As well as being frequently used in stews and soups, it may also be candied or used in curries. The sprouts and tendrils of the vine may be eaten as greens, and the vegetable’s juice can be added to a number of healthful drinks.
Scientific name:Â Benincasa hispida
Nutritional facts
13Â Calories in –Â 100 grams
| Nutrient | Amount(g) | DV(%) |
| Total Fat | 0.2 g | 0% |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 111 mg | 4% |
| Potassium | 6 mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 3 g | 1% |
| Protein | 0.4 g | 0% |
Benefits of Winter melon Ash gourd / Wax gourd
Improves Heart health
Winter melon may be a tried-and-true cardiovascular health defender because to its high potassium and vitamin C content. By reducing tension in the blood vessels and arteries and allowing blood to flow more freely, potassium can act as a vasodilator, which may assist to reduce blood pressure. As a result, atherosclerosis, which exacerbates heart problems and may raise your risk of coronary heart disease, may be more difficult to develop. In addition, vitamin C has been directly related to a potential decrease in the risk of a stroke.
Increases Immunity
Since one serving of ash gourd provides around 19% of your daily vitamin C needs, it is a great immune system booster. Vitamin C promotes WBC production. A significant amount of zinc, another essential element in immune system support, is also present in winter melon.
Enhances Cognitive Performance
The large amount of iron in ash gourds guarantees appropriate blood flow to the body’s extremities. Since iron is a key component in the formation of RBCs, healthy, oxygenated blood circulates more effectively. Thus, winter melon guards against anaemia symptoms and promotes appropriate blood flow to the brain, improving mental focus, attention, and memory.
Maintain energy levels
The efficient operation of the nervous system, hormones, brain, and digestive system depends on vitamin B2. Without vitamin B2, lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins are not properly absorbed. As a result, since it converts nutrients into energy, which is necessary for both processes, it is necessary for the body to develop and heal.
Additionally, the riboflavin in ash gourd supports balanced thyroid and adrenal function. Additionally, riboflavin calms the nervous system and regulates hormones.
Prevents migraines
In addition to treating headaches, vitamin B2 also lessens migraines’ frequency, length, discomfort, and other signs and symptoms. Vitamin B2 is abundant in winter melon.
Eliminates free radicals
Vitamin C protects against the harm that free radicals and harmful pollutants cause by acting as an antioxidant. The body produces free radicals as a result of food digestion, smoking, using tobacco, or exposure to radiation. The accumulation of free radicals worsens conditions including cancer, arthritis, and heart disease.
Promotes Weight Loss
Winter melon is regarded as a useful weight-loss supplement since it is high in fibre and low in calories. A greater metabolism and the development of muscles are encouraged by the abundance of nutrients and minerals.
Increases Vision
A vitamin B2 deficiency is the root cause of several eye conditions. There is a lot of vitamin B2 in winter melon. Increasing the amount of vitamin B2 in your system can lower your risk of acquiring eye disorders. Additionally, the antioxidants included in ash gourd may lower retinal oxidative stress.
Promotes growth and development
Although the majority of people would only associate vitamin C with boosting the immune system, this is not the only important job it can provide for the body. Most crucially, collagen, one of the fundamental building elements of cells, tissues, muscles, bones, and blood vessels, may be produced as a result of it. You may need high quantities of vitamin C to supply the building blocks for growth and repair if you are still going through the developmental phases of life or are healing from an accident or sickness.
Heart-healthy foods
According to a research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, those who consume enough vitamin C had a lower risk of stroke.
Side effects of Winter melon Ash gourd / Wax gourd
The following are some ash guard juice negative effects:
Phytates, oxalate, and other antinutritional components found in ash gourd may inhibit the body’s capacity to absorb nutrients. Ash gourd juice may increase the risk of calcium deposition, which might result in kidney stones.
Multiple animal toxicological studies indicate that ash gourd juice may be safe and unlikely to have any negative effects.
However, if you have any negative reactions, speak with an Ayurvedic physician right away and receive the necessary care.
Ash gourd juice should only be consumed in small doses, according to safety guidelines. However, when drinking ash gourd juice, safety measures must be taken.
As a result, those who have renal issues should limit their use of ash gourd juice.
Ash gourd juice cannot be used safely by expectant or nursing mothers due to a lack of knowledge. So before using it as a herb, it is imperative to get counsel from an Ayurvedic physician.
Giving ash gourd juice to young children and elderly people requires extra care.
We suggest that you speak with an Ayurvedic doctor, who can suggest a safer dose method.
Information is lacking about possible drug interactions. However, it is advised against using ash gourd juice orally with any mineral medications. 4
It is usually advisable to adhere to an Ayurvedic doctor’s guidance and prescribe you a better way to make use of this herbal juice.
Remember to eat only fresh vegetables and seasonal fruits that we get directly from mother earth.
However, in order to avoid the fruit’s negative effects, it is always best to consume it in moderation. Nothing in excessive amounts is healthy for our health.
Conclusion
Here we have discussed the 10 Benefits of Winter melon Ash gourd / Wax gourd along with the Side effects diet, properties, advantages, and disadvantages. One should follow and eat fruits &n veggies even in their busy schedule to stay fit and healthy. For interesting recipes you may visit PAGES. Remember to eat more vegetables and homemade foods and eat fewer junk foods
FAQ’s
Is winter melon good for kidneys?
In traditional medicine, it served as a diuretic to flush the body of salts, fats, water, and other toxins. Winter melon enhances kidney and liver performance and assists in efficient detoxification.
When should you eat winter melon?
The reason why ash gourd is also known as winter melon is because the fruit can be preserved for several months, allowing for three to four months of eating once it is picked in the late summer and fall.
Is winter melon good for detox?
It helps in the body’s detoxification. Winter melon promotes detoxification, and all extra fats, toxins, water, and salts from the body are expelled through urine. Winter melon supports healthy liver and renal function.
Is winter melon high in sugar?
Per 175 g serving of cooked winter melon, there are 63 calories. This meal has 5.2 grammes of carbohydrates, 0.7 grammes of protein, and 4.8 grammes of fat. The remainder is complex carbohydrate, with the latter containing 2 g of sugar and 1.8 g of dietary fibre. Each cooked serving of winter melon has 3.5 mg of cholesterol and 1.3 g of saturated fat.
Can I take melon on empty stomach?
Yes, you can eat watermelon on an empty stomach. When eaten on an empty stomach, watermelon’s whole complement of vital nutrients are efficiently absorbed by the body. Consuming watermelon on an empty stomach might help reduce hyperacidity.
Can we drink raw winter melon juice?
It is a fantastic cleansing drink since it helps us lose weight and removes toxins from our body. The best time to drink ash gourd juice is first thing in the morning when you’re empty. However, if you want to include drinking in your diet on a regular basis, speak with a nutritionist or doctor in your area beforehand.
What are the side effects of melon?
Overeating melons can result in digestive problems such stomach problems, bloating, and diarrhoea. Consuming too many honeydew melons may cause stomach discomfort and eventually result in issues like loose stools, gas, and diarrhoea.
What happens if you drink ash gourd juice everyday?
Ash gourd has been regarded for its therapeutic qualities since the dawn of humanity. Along with being packed with vital minerals, ash gourd also helps with digestion and cools the body. So, establish a daily routine of drinking ash gourd juice first thing in the morning on an empty stomach if you want to stay healthy.
Which fruit Cannot be eaten on empty stomach?
Citrus fruits like guava and oranges may increase acid production in your gut, increasing the risk of gastritis and gastric ulcers. And the heavy dose of fiber and fructose in such fruits can slow down your digestive system if eaten on an empty stomach.0