Bottle Gourd (சுரைக்காய்) in Vegetables

1. Potential Uses of Bottle Gourd for Liver:

Bottle gourd might have properties that may be good for the liver, as per several animal studies. Bottle gourd may offer many potential benefits, helpful in liver condition and functions. These possible benefits have been observed in animal trials. You must still contact your healthcare provider before using a bottle gourd for any liver ailment.^1,4

2. Potential Uses of Bottle Gourd for the Brain:

Consuming bottle gourd may show beneficial effects on the memory. Certain compounds in bottle gourd may show pain-relieving and central nervous system (CNS) depressant activity by acting on the brain.^1,⁴ CNS depressant activity might indicate its possible effects on calming the mind. Before using a bottle gourd for its benefits for the brain, you should contact your healthcare provider and get a proper diagnosis and treatment.

3. Potential Uses of Bottle Gourd for Cancer:

Bottle gourd (Lauki) extract might act against the cancerous cells, as per an animal study. In addition, its stem extract may show potent cytotoxic (toxic to cells in the body) activity against cancer cell lines as per a laboratory study. This anticancer activity of bottle gourd may be attributed to its potential antioxidant and cytotoxic abilities.¹ These potential benefits of bottle gourd have been studied in laboratory studies. However, you must consult your doctor before using any herbal supplement or remedy to replace or discontinue ongoing treatment.

4. Potential Uses of Bottle Gourd for Diabetes:

There are many variations in the size, shape and colour of bottle gourds. Size may vary from 4 to 40 inches in length and 2 to 12 inches in diameter. Neck length can reach up to 15 inches.
Dr. Smita barode, BAMS

Also Read: White Radish: Uncovering Its Nutritional Benefits And Uses

Bottle Gourd has been traditionally used to help with diabetes. Because of the low fat and high fibre content, bottle gourd may be recommended as the food of choice for people having diabetes. Bottle gourd extract could effectively reduce the blood glucose levels in diabetic animals, as indicated by an animal trial.⁴The potential anti-diabetic benefits of bottle gourd have been observed in animal trials, and more studies are needed to validate these properties in humans.

5. Potential Uses of Bottle Gourd for Obesity:

Bottle gourd might be a good option for losing weight as it is low in calories and contains mostly water. It is also rich in dietary fibre and contains low fat and cholesterol. These properties may help with weight management.⁴ You can add bottle gourd to your regular diet to help you manage weight. However, before using any herbal remedy for weight loss, you need to consult your healthcare provider about its potential uses and side effects.