IVY GOURD (COCCINIA GRANDIS)

Ivy Gourd (Coccinia grandis):
Coccinia grandis, the ivy gourd, also known as baby watermelon, little gourd, gentleman's toes or gherkin is a tropical vine. It is also known as Cephalandra indica and Coccinia indica. The fruit of the tindora vine are similar in appearance to an Indian gherkin. Tindora's fruits are ovoid to ellipsoid in shape and so small they are often referred to as a "berry". They range in size from 1" to 2 1/2" in length. Their skin is smooth with variegations of green and white. The translucent white flesh of the fruit resembles the appearance and flavor of a cucumber, bearing countless seeds that develop a red hue. The flesh is both crunchy and succulent in texture with a mildly bitter aftertaste. Mature fruits become soft and develop a sweeter quality. Depending on variety, a mature tindora fruit's skin color can also become bright red. These varieties are commonly referred to as "Big Red".

Medicinal value:
In traditional medicine, fruits have been used to treat leprosy, fever, asthma, bronchitis and jaundice. The fruit possesses mast cell stabilizing, anti-anaphylactic and antihistaminic potential. Ivy gourd extracts and other forms of the plant can be purchased online and in health food stores. It is claimed that these products help regulate blood sugar levels. There is some research to support that compounds in the plant inhibit the enzyme glucose-6-phosphatase. Glucose-6-phosphatase is one of the key liver enzymes involved in regulating sugar metabolism. Therefore, ivy gourd is sometimes recommended for diabetic patients. Although these claims have not been supported, there currently is a fair amount of research focused on the medicinal properties of this plant focusing on its use as an antioxidant, anti-hypoglycemic agent, immune system modulator, etc.[citation needed] Some countries in Asia like Thailand prepare traditional tonic like drinks for medicinal purposes.

Health and benefits:
They are rich in fiber which helps in the digestion of food and allow easy bowel movement.
Leaves and roots of this plant have many compounds that help in regulating sugars in diabetic patients.
For attaining healthy skin, juice of this plant can be very useful.
Ivy Gourds have plenty of antioxidants which minimize the free radicals in the body, keeping it healthy.
Research has shown the prominence of glucose-6-phosphatase in these plants that can regulate sugars in the body of diabetic patients.
Immunity can also be achieved by regularly taking these vegetables.
Beta-carotene, an essential nutrient for preventing a number of serious ailments is stuffed in the plants, which helps in maintaining good health.
It keeps the endocrine glands healthy which reduces problems arising out of its malfunctioning.
The leaves are highly effective in treating diabetes and keeping the sugars in check.
It is an excellent cure for an array of skin infections like leprosy, psoriasis and scabies.
They have also been used for treating tongue sores, diarrhea and jaundice. Flowers are mainly useful in healing jaundice.
Roots of this plant have been used in Chinese medicine as they have a number of medicinal properties.
A tonic made out of the leaves is a noted Thai medicine for treating patients.
Their essence has been blended into a number of medicinal formulations that are available as tablets and tinctures.
Some other ailments like respiratory mucosae and bronchial inflammations can also be healed by it.
Leaves, fruits and stems have the power to stabilize high blood pressure.

Ivy Gourd During Pregnancy:
Very less is known about its consumption during pregnancy but pregnant women and lactating mothers can refrain from this vegetable as that might lead to some complications

Ivy Gourd Side Effects:
There are no known side effects of this plant but it should be consumed under medical supervision if you are trying to benefit from its medicinal properties.