Ivy Gourd – Medicinal and Nutritional Values

Ivy Gourd Coccinia grandis (L) also known as baby watermelon or little gourd is a unique tropical plant, that is a member of the family of Cucurmbitaceae. It has been classified as a medicinal herb in traditional Thai and ayurvedic medicine. The fruits of C. grandis are known to contain active constituents like taraxerone, taxerol, amyran, lupeol and glycoside cucurbitacan B. The tender green fruits are nutritious and are good source of protein, calcium, fiber and beta carotene, Vitamin-A. Coccinia grandis herb lowers blood sugar levels by 20 percent in type 2 diabetics, helps in regulating body temperature during fever, used as an injection into chronic sinuses, used in decoction for gonorrhea, used to treat inflammation, dyspnea, cough, emaciation, fever with burning sensation; convulsion, syphilis pulse and flower are used in jaundice.