Lauki or bottle gourd, is a superb vegetable for keeping various diseases under check. Besides, this light green-colored vegetable is also good for overall health. Often referred to as doodhi or ghiya in Hindi, it is consumed by thousands of people because of its myriad health benefits.
The benefits of bottle gourd
This vegetable consists of 96 percent water and, therefore, is good for digestion and treating several stomach woes. It is also a rich source of vitamin C and B, sodium, potassium and iron. This is why it is helpful in lowering the level of cholesterol in the body. The antioxidants present in it help flush out bad toxins from the body, thus aiding weight loss. Another great benefit of bottle gourd is that it promotes collagen production, making your skin look rejuvenated. These are just a few benefits of lauki, among many. To know more about bottle -gourd’s benefits, read on.
Bottle Gourd Promotes Weight Loss
Owing to its water and fiber content, it promotes good digestion. This further helps in keeping you full for a longer time and promoting a good metabolism. Once the metabolism comes on track, it aids in weight loss. All you need to do is peel this vegetable and remove its skin. Now cut it into small pieces and put them in a juicer to extract its juice. Drink this juice every day for speedy weight loss.
Bottle Gourd Helps in Digestion and Treating Constipation
As we mentioned above, bottle gourd is a rich source of soluble fiber, which curbs appetite and boosts metabolism. A good metabolism further promotes good digestion. It is also known to cure constipation. This is because of the fiber and water content. Both are essential requisites for curing the problem of constipation.
Provides Cooling Effect
Again, owing to its water content, bottle gourd keeps you hydrated and cool from inside during summer months. Also, it is light on stomach and therefore, makes you feel fit. It also covers up the loss of water from the body due to sweat.
Cures Urinary Ailments
Owing to its diuretic nature, it ensures the flushing out of excess water content in the body in the form of urine. It is helpful in curing other ailments related to the urinary tract. All you need to do is consume a glass of lauki juice on a regular basis.
Treats Sleeping Disorders
It is really effective for those who suffer from insomnia. Such patients should consume a mixture of sesame oil and lauki juice. It ensures a good night’s sleep.
Keeps You Hydrated
You often sweat during the summer months, due to which there is a loss of water content in the body. This further can lead to problems like fatigue and diarrhea. A glass of bottle gourd juice is the perfect remedy to get the water content back in the body. It keeps the body and skin hydrated, thus preventing various ailments.
Bottle Gourd Keeps Heart HealthyLauki or bottle gourd, possesses qualities that help maintain the level of blood pressure in the body. This further ensures a healthy heart. So, lauki juice is beneficial for keeping heart-related ailments at bay.
Reduces Liver Inflammation
Owing to its anti-inflammatory properties, bottle gourd juice is really good for liver. It lowers the level of inflammation in the liver with its soothing properties, thus keeping it healthy and functioning.
Recipe of Bottle Gourd Juice
Take around 250 grams of bottle gourd and peel off its skin. Cut it into small pieces. Now add a few mint leaves and half a cup of water to it. Put all these ingredients in the blender. Extract the juice and then add some salt and roasted cumin powder for seasoning. Stir well and drink it. You can also refrigerate it or add a few ice cubes during the summer months.
Lauki or bottle gourd can be a great addition to your diet and make for a very healthy option for anyone who wishes to embrace good gut health. To learn about the various beauty benefits of lauki or bottle gourd, click here.
Frequently asked questions
Are there specific varieties of bottle gourd with enhanced nutritional benefits?
Some heirloom varieties of bottle gourd may have higher nutritional content and unique flavors.
Can bottle gourd be consumed raw?
Bottle gourd can be grated or sliced and eaten raw in salads, providing a crunchy texture and preserving its nutritional content.
Can bottle gourds be used for skincare?
The hydrating properties and antioxidants in bottle gourd may be beneficial for the skin when applied topically.
How does bottle gourd support liver health?
The antioxidants and nutrients in bottle gourd may assist in detoxification, supporting optimal liver function.