What are the Uses and Health Benefits of Pointed Gourd (Parwal)?

Trichosanthes dioica is also known as parwal, parval, pointed gourd, patola, green potato and belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. It is similar to cucumber and is a popular vegetable that works wonders for our bodies. It has heart-shaped leaves and is grown on a trellis.

This plant is mostly found in the Indian subcontinent and is one of the important vegetables of this region. Its edible part is the fruit which is cooked in various ways either alone or in combination with other vegetables. Various kinds of gravy dishes and dry dishes are prepared with this vegetable. It is most commonly found in India and other Asian countries.

The pointed gourd is the most beneficial plant for the purification of blood. According to Ayurveda, it regulates the Kapha and eliminates toxins from the body. It also has the capacity to boost up immunity.

5 Health benefits of Pointed Gourd:

There are several health benefits of the pointed gourd and are less known to the people. It is rich in vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, and vitamin C. Pointed gourd is less in calories and also maintains the cholesterol levels in the body. In Ayurveda, It helps in treating gastric problems and also used as a natural aphrodisiac that improves sex life.

Here are 5 popular health benefits of pointed gourd:

• Blood purifier

The pointed gourd is one of the most beneficial herbs for the purification of blood. According to Ayurveda, pointed gourd works on balancing or regulating the Kapha dosha. It also detoxifies the blood, tissues, and thus keeps the skin healthy as well. Blood purification is necessary for the body because blood toxicity causes various skin issues. This plant keeps the blood pure and maintains the health of the body.

• Reduces flu

Seasonal changes can cause one of the most common health issues ie., flu and the main reason behind this is the weak immune system of the body. Pointed gourd helps in boosting up the immune system and prevents the body from infections. It also treats other problems like flu, throat infection, and high temperature in the body. If consumed parwal or pointed gourd on a regular basis, it will help to reduce the problem of cold and flu.

• Improves digestion and treats constipation

Pointed gourd or parwal has a huge amount of fiber in it which helps to improve the proper digestion. Various gastrointestinal problems and liver-related tissues are treated with this herb by providing strength to the GI tract. It gives you a better possibility of staying healthy. Taking it in a regular diet is quite beneficial for improving digestion. It keeps the organs healthy, helps in the regeneration of new cells, and prevents the breakdown of healthy cells. This herb is commonly used in India for treating digestion-related issues for every two to three months.

Constipation is the major health issue that is normally seen in women or men whose water intake is less. Some foods that are rich in too many minerals such as iron etc., cause constipation. Its seeds help to ease stool and are recommended to reduce constipation. If it is used on a regular basis, it helps to reduce constipation.

• Fight with aging factors

As the age increases, wrinkles and fine lines are commonly visible signs on the face. Pointed gourd contains natural antioxidants, vitamin A and C that helps to fight with the free radical molecules which encourage the aging signs. It becomes the most terrific concern for every individual. Since it is a natural process, but it is also caused due to contamination and pollution in the air. Including parwal in your daily diet helps to reduce the symptoms related to the aging process.

• Helps in weight loss

Half of the population is making efforts to lose weight. Keeping yourself fit and fine is one of the main mantras in this sedentary diet and lifestyle. People are doing almost everything to maintain their body weight. Do exercise regularly and take a healthy diet to control weight. This vegetable has the property of low calories and maintains body weight. So, one can eat vegetable-based curries and there will be no doubt to reduce their weight. It helps the stomach to feel fuller and controls the need of eating again and again.