Description

Ivy gourd is a smooth, green colored, ovoid to ellipsoid shaped berry with longitudinal stripes when young and turn bright red when ripe. It primarily grows in tropical climates and is commonly found in the Southern Indian states. It has long elastic tendrils and palmate leaves with five lobes. Its inside reveals white, crispy flesh with some pale, flattened seeds 7 mm long. It is used both for food and medicinal purposes. Its leaves and fruit are used as a vegetable in India and other Asian countries.

Health benefits

• Ivy gourd contains anti-adipogenic agent that can help to improve metabolic diseases induced by obesity. ⁽¹⁾
• It can help to lower blood sugar level by improving the glucose tolerance. ⁽¹⁾
• It contains good amount of iron that help body feel energetic and protect body weakness and severe fatigue. ⁽¹⁾
• The vitamins and antioxidants in ivy gourd can help in strengthening the nervous system. It can also help treat nervous system problems such as Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety, numbness and multiple sclerosis. ⁽¹⁾
• It contains thiamine that helps to convert carbohydrates into glucose, thus producing energy and maintaining healthy metabolism. ⁽¹⁾
• It is a good source of fiber that helps to keep digestive tract healthy and prevent gastrointestinal disorders like gastric ulcers, hemorrhoids, gastroesophageal reflux disease and constipation. ⁽¹⁾

Selection Guide

Look for young, smooth skinned, green ivy gourds as they are best for cooking. Avoid mature ivy gourds as they tend to be more sweet and will impart sweet flavour to savoury dishes.