Bottle gourd (calebasse), also known as white-flowered gourd or calabash gourd, is a vine or running gourd (Cucurbitaceae) that is native to tropical Africa but is grown in warm areas all over the world for its decorative and practical hard-shelled fruits. Young fruits can be eaten as well as are frequently prepared like vegetables.

BENEFITS:

Liver

Bottle gourd (calebasse) may have benefits for the liver.It may have a variety of health advantages, including support for liver health and function.

Cancer

Bottle gourd (calebasse) extract might stop the growth of cancerous cells. Additionally, a laboratory study suggests that its stem extract may have high cytotoxic (toxic to bodily cells) effect against cancer cell lines. The possible antioxidant and cytotoxic properties of bottle gourd may be responsible for its anticancer properties.

Diabetes

Bottle gourd (calebasse) extract effectively lowers blood glucose levels.

Weight loss

Due to its low calorie content and high water content, bottle gourd can be an excellent choice for those looking to lose weight. It has low fat and cholesterol and is particularly high in dietary fiber. These characteristics might support weight management.

Skin

A good source of zinc and vitamin C,  have various skin-friendly properties. For total skin health, vitamin C is necessary. It might shield the skin from UV radiation’s harmful effects. Additionally, it might aid in avoiding aging skin symptoms including skin drooping. By increasing the generation of skin barrier lipids, it might also reinforce the skin barrier.

SIDE EFFECTS:

Bitter bottle gourd (calebasse) juice consumption might result in serious poisoning responses. Vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, hematochezia (blood in the stools), haematemesis (vomiting blood), shock, as well as death are some of the symptoms of bottle gourd juice poisoning. Report these symptoms to your doctor if they are occuring.