Ash Gourd Juice: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects and More!

What is Ash Gourd (Winter Melon)?  

Ash gourd, known as winter melon or petha in India, is a large fruit with pale green, smooth skin and an elongated shape. In India, ash gourd is commonly used in various culinary preparations, particularly in North Indian cuisine.

One of the most popular ways to enjoy ash gourd in India is by making a sweet delicacy called “petha.” Additionally, with its high water content and low-calorie count, ash gourd is a popular choice for those seeking to maintain a healthy diet. Furthermore, its seeds are often used in traditional medicine to support digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, and support overall health. It is also used in savoury dishes like curries, soups, and stir-fries across various Indian cuisines.

Keep reading to know more about ash gourd or petha, its nutritional value, and health benefits, whip up easy recipes using ash gourd and much more.

Ash Gourd Juice Nutrition Values and Facts

Ash gourd, or petha, is mainly composed of 90% water and is very low in calories, fat, protein, and carbohydrates. It is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and the B-complex vitamins niacin (B3), thiamine (B1), and riboflavin (B2). Additionally, ash gourd is rich in various micronutrients and macro minerals such as iron, sodium, potassium, zinc, calcium, magnesium, iodine, and manganese. Here is the nutritional value of 100 g of petha or ash gourd:

• Calories 13  kcal
• Total Fat 0.2 g
• Saturated Fat 2.9  g
• Total Carbohydrate 3  g
• Protein 0.4  g
• Dietary Fiber 2.9  g
• Calcium (Ca) – 19 mg
• Iron (Fe) – 0.4 mg
• Magnesium (Mg) – 10 mg
• Phosphorus (P) – 19 mg
• Potassium (K) – 6 mg
• Sodium (Na) – 111 mg
• Zinc (Zn) – 0.61 mg
• Copper (Cu) – 0.023 mg
• Manganese (Mn) – 0.058 mg
• Selenium (Se) – 0.2 µg
• Vitamin C (Total ascorbic acid) – 13 mg
• Thiamine (Vitamin B1) – 0.04 mg
• Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) – 0.11 mg
• Niacin (Vitamin B3) – 0.4 mg
• Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) – 0.133 mg
• Vitamin B6 – 0.035 mg
• Folate (Total) – 5 µg
• Lysine – 0.009 g
• Methionine – 0.003 g

Properties of Ash Gourd Juice 

Ash gourd juice is beneficial in managing kidney diseases and jaundice, and supporting liver and kidney health. Here are the other medicinal properties of ash gourd or petha that make it a valuable fruit:

• Antioxidant activity: Ash gourd juice exhibits antioxidant properties, helping to control oxidative stress in the body.
• Anti-inflammatory property: It possesses anti-inflammatory action , aiding in soothing inflammation and discomfort.
• Antimicrobial activity: Ash gourd juice has antimicrobial properties, which may help fight against various pathogens.
• Antipyretic: It may help lower elevated body temperature and is traditionally used for its cooling properties that may assist in managing febrile discomfort. 
• Anti-convulsion activity: It exhibits anti-convulsant properties, assisting in managing seizures.
• Antiulcer activity: Ash gourd juice displays antiulcer properties, controlling and healing peptic ulcers.
• Antidepressant activity: It may possess antidepressant effects, aiding in the management of depressive symptoms.
• Appetite-regulating properties: Ash gourd juice may act as an appetite suppressant, assisting in weight management.
• Histamine Regulation: It may help regulate histamine levels in the body, potentially reducing allergic reactions.
• Digestive Comfort: It aids in easing indigestion and promoting digestive health.
• Hormonal Balance Support: Ash gourd is believed to support hormonal equilibrium and natural menstrual rhythm. 
• Hydrating and Diuretic Support: The seeds and leaves of ash gourd are traditionally recognised for their hydrating and mild diuretic properties, which may help support urinary flow and comfort.
• Kidney Wellness Support: Ash gourd may support the body’s natural elimination pathways, including kidney health, due to its high water content and functional components
• Laxative nature: The seeds of ash gourd possess a laxative effect, supporting regular bowel movements and managing constipation, stomach cramping, and other digestive disorders.

Uses and Benefits of Ash Gourd Juice By Experts

Ash gourd juice benefits those looking for weight loss, lower blood sugar levels, relief of constipation and stomach ulcers and detoxification of their body. Here are the main ash gourd juice benefits:

1) Loaded With Nutrients

Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in ash gourd are essential for our health. Its nutrient density makes it a valuable addition to a balanced diet, supporting various bodily functions and promoting optimal health.

2) Helps in Weight Loss

With its low calorie and high water content, ash gourd aids in weight loss by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing calorie intake. Additionally, its fibre content supports healthy digestion and metabolism, further facilitating weight management efforts.

3) Provides Energy

Ash gourd is a natural source of carbohydrates and electrolytes, providing a sustainable energy boost. Its hydrating properties help replenish fluids lost during physical activity, making it an excellent choice for maintaining energy levels and promoting hydration.

4) Enhances Gut Health

Fibre and water in ash gourd promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements, managing constipation and supporting gut health. Additionally, its natural anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe inflammation in the digestive tract, further enhancing gut health.

5) Uses for Ulcers

Ash gourd has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of gastric ulcers due to its soothing and cooling properties. Its mucilaginous texture forms a protective layer over the stomach lining, reducing irritation and promoting the healing of ulcers. Regular consumption of ash gourd juice or cooked ash gourd may help relieve ulcer symptoms.

6) Uses For Skin

Ash gourd benefits skin health due to its hydrating and cooling properties. Applying ash gourd juice or pulp topically can help hydrate the skin, soothe inflammation, and soothe irritation. Additionally, its antioxidant content helps protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, supporting a healthy and radiant complexion.

7) Supports Lung Health

Ash gourd is believed to have beneficial effects on lung health due to its expectorant properties. By promoting clearer airways and improved lung function, ash gourd juice or decoction may ease respiratory symptoms such as coughing, congestion, and difficulty breathing.

8) Diabetes Management

Ash gourd is considered beneficial for individuals with diabetes due to its low glycemic index and potential hypoglycemic effects. Consuming ash gourd regularly may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, supporting overall diabetes management. However, individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels closely when incorporating ash gourd into their diet.

How to Use Ash Gourd Juice?  

To prepare ash gourd juice, start by washing and peeling the ash gourd. Chop the flesh into small pieces after removing the seeds. Blend the pieces with water until smooth, then strain the juice to remove any pulp. You can also add a few drops of lemon juice, rock salt or a dash of honey for flavour. Drink the juice fresh on an empty stomach in the morning for maximum benefits. Alternatively, use ash gourd juice as a smoothie base or mix it with other vegetable or fruit juices to kick-start your morning.

Combining ash gourd with coconut milk, lime juice, and amla juice also benefits. For stomach worms, drink a mixture of coconut milk and ash gourd juice to get relief.

Side Effects of Ash Gourd Juice 

While ash gourd juice offers various health benefits, excessive consumption or certain individuals may experience side effects:

• Respiratory problems: Drinking excessive ash gourd juice or consuming it over a prolonged period may lead to increased phlegm production due to its waxy nature, posing risks, particularly for individuals with asthma or bronchitis. 
• Kidney stones: Their high mineral content can potentially result in a toxic buildup of metallic substances in the body over time. Consuming ash gourd in large amounts may also elevate the risk of calcium deposition, potentially leading to the formation of kidney stones.
• Hindered nutrient absorption: Ash gourd also contains anti-nutritional factors such as phytates and oxalates, which could hinder calcium absorption.

Considering both ash gourd juice benefits and side effects, it is advisable to consume it in moderation. 

Safety Measures for Consuming Ash Gourd Juice 

When consuming ash gourd juice, follow these safety precautions:

• Begin with small servings to assess tolerance.
• Those with kidney stones should consume it in moderation.
• If you have stomach issues, avoid excessive consumption, especially on an empty stomach.
• Monitor your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes.

Takeaway

Drinking ash gourd juice in the morning is an excellent detoxifier, effectively eliminating toxins, germs, and contaminants accumulated in the body. Rich in essential nutrients like calcium, iron, phosphorus, and vitamin C, it aids in flushing waste from the system. It is a great drink for diabetics, weight loss, kidney health and stomach ulcers due to its cooling effect. 

You can also explore more about healthy foods and diet tips for diabetes, kidney stones, stomach ulcers and medicines to treat these conditions at Truemeds online pharmacy. To prepare the juice, it’s important to remove the seeds from the ash gourd vegetable. This soothing juice is particularly beneficial for those experiencing constipation as it helps to soothe the digestive tract, promoting better bowel movements and overall gut health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

• Souza, S. (2022). Clinical Significance of Drinking Ash Gourd Juice: A Review Article. Nutrition and Food Sciences Research, 9(4), 11–17. https://nfsr.sbmu.ac.ir/article-1-570-fa.pdf
• Shinde, V., & Jadhav, A. (2024). The Ash Gourd: Unlocking It’s Health Benefits. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 02(11). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14295096