This article is reviewed by an expert
Also known as winter melon, ash gourd is eaten in almost all Indian households. One of the most popular ways of consuming ash gourd is in the form of juice.
Have you ever had ash gourd juice? Do you know that it is rich in numerous medicinal properties that make it one of the healthiest beverages? Keep reading to find out more.
Ash Gourd Juice: Nutritional Content & Properties (1) (2)
Scientifically termed Benincasa hispida, Ash gourd juice contains numerous essential nutrients like proteins, flavonoids, carotenes, vitamins, fibre, zinc and calcium.
Owing to its nutrient profile, ash gourd juice exhibits several medicinal properties like antacid, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial etc.
Ash Gourd in Ayurveda (3)
Known as Kushmanda, ash gourd is used for several health purposes in Ayurveda. It is used for managing ulcers, epilepsy and urinary disorders and enhancing memory and other cognitive functions.
Unripe fruit of ash gourd is said to alleviate Pitta Dosha, whereas half-ripened fruit is known for aggravating Kapha Dosha.
The mature fruit of ash gourd is known for its digestive properties and is used to pacify all three Doshas.
The Many Benefits of Ash Gourd Juice
Digestive Health (3) (4)
Primary Benefits: According to research, ash gourd extracts may possess natural antiulcer properties. It can potentially provide strength and alleviate Pitta-related symptoms, such as a burning sensation, acid reflux, and hyperacidity.
Secondary Benefits: This can help treat and prevent the development of gastric ulcers.
Diarrhoea Treatment (4)
Primary Benefits: Several studies suggest that the administration of ash gourd fruit extract can hinder intestinal peristalsis, gastrointestinal motility, and enteropooling induced by PGE2.
Secondary Benefits: Owing to these properties, ash gourd juice can be used as a potent remedy for diarrhoea.
Mental Health (4)
Primary Benefits: A modified forced swim test was conducted to assess the potential antidepressant effects of the methanol extract of ash gourd fruit. Results showed that it significantly decreased immobility during the forced swim test.
Secondary Benefits: Ash gourd juice can be used to treat and manage depression.
Neurodegenerative Disorders (4)
Primary Benefits: Research has demonstrated that the extract of ash gourd pulp can cause a significant reduction in the level of lipid peroxidation while increasing the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and reduced glutathione in various regions of the brain.
Secondary Benefits: As such, the antioxidants present in ash gourd juice can help manage Alzheimer’s disease.
Kidney Health (4)
Primary Benefits: Studies suggest that Benincasa hispida can help prevent lipid peroxidation and protect the kidneys from a significant decrease in the activity of antioxidant enzymes.
Secondary Benefits: As such, it can promote kidney health and prevent kidney disorders.
How To Make Ash Gourd Juice?
- First, peel the outer skin and wash and cut the ash gourd into small pieces. Then, remove the large seeds and the centre soft part of the ash gourd.
- Now, add the diced ash gourd into a blender with some water and blend until smooth.
- Next, strain the juice well and add some lime juice, a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to it.
- Mix well and serve fresh.
Side Effects of Ash Gourd Juice (1)
Ash gourd juice is usually safe for everyone. However, it contains several anti-nutritional factors, which might reduce the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. It may also cause calcium deposition and lead to kidney stones.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women are also recommended to consult a doctor before consuming it.
On a Final Note
Ash gourd juice is one of the healthiest beverages. Loaded with nutrients, it helps boost digestion, skin health and mental health. It also helps manage diabetes and peptic ulcers.
References:
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/337854043_Ash_gourd_and_its_applications_in_the_food_pharmacological_and_biomedical_industries
- http://plantarchives.org/SPECIAL%20ISSUE%2021-1/41%20(249-252).pdf
- https://ijapr.in/index.php/ijapr/article/view/2215/1508
- https://rjptonline.org/HTMLPaper.aspx?Journal=Research%20Journal%20of%20Pharmacy%20and%20Technology;PID=2011-4-12-22
