Health Benefits of Bottle Gourd (Lauki)

Health Benefits of Bottle Gourd(Lauki)

Vegetables are an important part of the everyday human diet. 'Thy food be thy medicine' is a natural law. Lagenaria siceraria, known as Lauki in Hindi and bottle gourd in English, is a popular vegetable in India. Bottle gourd has traditionally been used to treat many ailments, including fever, coughing, discomfort, and asthma.

This simple green gourd, present in many kitchens, carries a tremendous nutritional punch. Bottle gourds are a versatile complement to any diet due to their high vitamin and mineral content.

But there is more. Continue reading to discover the advantages of eating Lauki and how including it in your diet may make your life easier.

What is Lauki (Bottle Gourd, Calabash)?

Bottle gourd is a vine plant from the Cucurbitaceae family. It is commonly planted for its edible fruit, distinguished by its moisturising, elongated, and bottle-like shape, hence the plant's popular name. This fruit is normally harvested when it is young and fragile, as it turns unpalatable and hard as it ages.

Bottle gourd is often used in curries, soups, stir-fries, and desserts. Lauki, with its delicate flavour and several health benefits, remains a favourite addition to many households, giving culinary delight and nourishment.

Bottle gourd’s nutritional composition

Bottle gourd contains 96.1% water, making it light on the stomach and aiding digestion. It promotes rapid weight loss due to its high dietary fibre content and low fat and cholesterol levels. It contains vitamins A, B, and C, and vital minerals. Here's the nutritional value of bottle gourds:

Note: Please keep in mind that the figures are estimates and may differ greatly based on the variety, growing circumstances, and preparation methods used.

For further insights into how you can include healthy vegetables in your diet, check out our nutrition services. 

Benefits and Side Effects of Bottle Gourd

1. Rich in calcium and vitamins 

Bottle gourds are a fantastic source of calcium and vitamins C and K. Their high water content helps prevent dehydration and keeps the body cool. They also work as a natural laxative, promoting digestive health.

2. Packed with antioxidants

Bottle gourds are rich in antioxidants, which help fight harmful free radicals in the body. This reduces oxidative stress, protects cells, and lowers the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

3. Natural antimicrobial properties

The vegetable has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help fight infections and strengthen your immune system, keeping germs and fungi at bay.

4. Helps with health conditions

Bottle gourds can aid in managing heart, liver, and ulcer-related issues. The high potassium content helps control blood pressure, especially in those with hypertension.

5. Aids in treating cough, constipation, and night blindness

Bottle gourd pulp is often used to treat cough, night blindness, and constipation. It can also act as an antidote for certain poisons and is a great option for those with lactose intolerance.

6. Great for weight loss

Low in fat and cholesterol, yet high in fibre, bottle gourd is perfect for those looking to lose weight while staying full and nourished.

7. Boosts mental health

Bottle gourds are high in choline, which can help improve mental health and treat conditions like stress or anxiety.

8. Fights parasitic infections

Thanks to its anthelmintic properties, bottle gourd can help eliminate parasitic worms and other internal parasites, which is important for maintaining a healthy gut.

9. Supports diabetes management

Bottle gourd has a low glycemic index and potential blood sugar-lowering effects, making it a good option for people with diabetes. However, it's essential to monitor blood sugar levels closely when consuming it.

10. Traditional uses in medicine

Various parts of the bottle gourd—leaves, stems, fruits, oil, and seeds—have long been used to treat diabetes, ulcers, piles, colitis, high blood pressure, mental disorders, and skin issues.

Side effects of bottle gourd

While bottle gourd and bottle gourd juice have various benefits, it is vital to be cautious of potential adverse effects:

1. Toxicity

Bottle gourd contains poisonous chemicals known as cucurbitacins, which cause toxicity and a bitter taste. These drugs have the potential to cause gastrointestinal distress, nausea, or vomiting.

2. Allergic reactions

Some people are allergic to bottle gourds, which can produce swelling, rashes, and itching after eating them.

3. Blood sugar fluctuations

Because bottle gourd has a low glycemic index, it is generally regarded to be safe for diabetics; however, it is critical to always monitor blood sugar levels as too much of it might cause fluctuations.

4. Interference with medication

When using bottle gourds, certain drugs, notably those used to treat diabetes and high blood pressure, may cause issues. Before introducing it into your diet, especially in large quantities or concentrated forms such as juice, check with your doctor.

5. Flatulence

If a person has a sensitive digestive system or is unfamiliar with eating a lot of fibre-rich foods, they may experience gas or bloating after eating bottle gourd.

How to use bottle gourd?

Bottle gourd, also known as Lauki, has plenty of uses. Here are several ways to use bottle gourd-

1. Stir-fry: Cut bottle gourd into thin slices and cook with spices, garlic, and onions for a quick and healthful meal.

2. Curry: Use diced bottled gourd in your favourite curry recipes. It absorbs tastes well and works well with spices.

3. Soup: Bottle gourd can be mixed into soups to provide a creamy texture. Boil it with additional veggies, then mix and season to make a nutritious soup.

4. Lauki halwa: Grate bottle gourd and combine with milk, sugar, and ghee to make a sweet halwa. Add nuts and cardamom for added flavour. 

5. Lauki Juice: Peel and chop the bottle gourd into pieces. Blend with water, filter, and add a bit of salt or lemon to taste. Drink it fresh for a refreshing and hydrating beverage.

6. Lauki face pack: Bottle gourd can be combined into a paste and used to soothe and calm the skin.

7. Detox drink: Combine bottled gourd juice with other detoxifying ingredients like ginger or lemon to make a health-boosting drink.

Precautions to take with bottle gourd

Follow these safety measures when using a bottle gourd:

• Always try a little piece of raw bottle gourd before cooking or juicing. If it tastes bitter, do not eat it. Bitterness suggests the presence of poisonous chemicals known as cucurbitacins, which can induce severe stomach discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
• Prevent mixing bottle gourd with other bitter vegetables like bitter gourd to prevent increasing the toxicity.

• Consume fresh bottle gourds and avoid utilising those that have been stored for too long, as older gourds may contain hazardous substances.

   

Conclusion

Including bottle gourd in your diet is a simple yet effective way to boost overall health, thanks to its rich nutrient profile and numerous health benefits. From aiding digestion and weight loss to supporting mental health and managing diabetes, this versatile vegetable deserves a place in your daily meals. Just be cautious of any bitterness to avoid potential side effects.

For personalised diet plans that include bottled gourd and other nutritious foods, visit our dietitian services at TruePal.

FAQ’s

1. Is bottle gourd good for weight loss?
Yes, its high fiber and low-fat content make it great for weight loss.

2. Can diabetics eat bottled gourd?
Yes, but they should monitor their blood sugar levels while consuming it.

3. What should I do if bottle gourd tastes bitter?
Avoid eating it, as bitterness indicates the presence of toxic substances.

4. Can bottle gourd juice help with digestion?
Yes, bottle gourd juice aids digestion and can relieve constipation.

5. Is bottle gourd beneficial for liver health?
Yes, it has detoxifying properties that support liver function.