Bottle gourd, also known as lauki or calabash. The demographic analyses performed by the researchers suggest that after its origin in Africa, the bottle gourd made its way to the New World via the Atlantic drift and to Eurasia through early human farmers in the Holocene. Gourds are among the oldest cultivated plants. Remains of gourds, used extensively as utensils, were found in Egyptian tombs of the Twelfth Dynasty, about 2200 or 2400 B.C. Throughout recorded history, gourds have been used as utensils such as dippers, and as containers for grain or water storage. The Bottle Gourd is typically grown for non-food use. The gourd is allowed to reach its full size on the plant and turned into a valuable container for grains or liquids. Mature fruits contain an extremely hard and waterproof rind when dried. The growing gourd may be constricted with bands to form any desirable shape...

Benefits :

Hydration: High water content helps keep the body hydrated.

Digestive Health: Rich in fiber, aids digestion, and prevents constipation.

Weight Management: Low in calories, supports weight loss.

Heart Health: Contains potassium, maintains healthy blood pressure.

Kidney Health: Acts as a natural diuretic, helps prevent kidney stones.

Cooling Effect: Reduces body heat, beneficial in hot weather.

Blood Sugar Regulation: This may help manage blood sugar levels.

Skin Health: Hydrates skin and can be used in face masks for a cooling effect.

Bone Health: Contains calcium, supports bone health.

Immune Support: Provides essential vitamins and minerals for immune function.

Uses of Bottle Gourd:

Curries: Commonly used in Indian curries and stews.

Soups: Added to soups for a light, nutritious base.

Juices: Consumed as a refreshing juice, often mixed with other fruits or vegetables.

Salads: Can be used in salads, either raw or lightly cooked.

Snacks: Made into fritters or pancakes.

Nutritional Value:

Calories: 15

Total Fat: 0 g

Saturated Fat: 0 g

Cholesterol: 0 mg

Sodium: 2 mg

Potassium: 170 mg

Total Carbohydrate: 3.7 g

Dietary Fiber: 1.2 g

Protein: 0.6 g

Vitamin C: 14%

Calcium: 2%

Iron: 1%

Vitamin D: 0%

Vitamin B6: 0%

Cobalamin: 0%

Magnesium: 2%