Petha

Also Known As : Winter melon, Ash gourd

Descriptions
details

Vegetarian

Usage Tips

Petha is cooked as a vegetable or can be added to dal and sambhar.
Ripe petha is also used to prepare a traditional sweet by cooking it in sugar syrup and then dried till it hardens.

Description

Petha is an oblong shaped vegetable that has smooth and finely ribbed rind. It has light yellow or greenish flesh. It is 1-2m long in length.

Health benefits

Petha contains good amount of vitamin B12 that helps to improve vision.⁽¹⁾
It helps to boost the immune system.⁽¹⁾
It promotes better digestion and prevents gastrointestinal issues like constipation and bloating.⁽¹⁾
It improves metabolism.⁽¹⁾
It is a good source of iron and protects against anemia.⁽¹⁾

Selection Guide

Choose petha which is firm with smooth rind and free from blemishes.

Note

Those suffering from asthma, bronchitis and cold must avoid petha as it may increase kapha. It is also not ideal for those suffering from obesity.⁽²⁾

Resource & Links

(1) https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/vegetable/winter-melon-benefits-nutritional-value.html

(2) https://www.lybrate.com/topic/winter-melon-petha-benefits-and-side-effects

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