Kiwano tastes sour and feels similar to a cucumber. The genus Cucumis, also known as the gourd family Cucurbitaceae, includes the African melon known as kiwano. Originating in the Kalahari desert of Southern Africa, this unique fruit is now making its way to other parts of the world. The natives of New Zealand gave it the name Kiwano due to its unique feel and color. However, kiwis and this fruit do not share any genetic similarities. Several regions of Asia are present-day artificial growing regions for fruit.
The tremendous nutritional value of the Kiwano has led researchers to conclude that it is a crucial fruit for disease prevention and treatment. It plays a critical role in helping undeveloped countries like those in Africa and elsewhere combat malnutrition. The fruit is the most desired part of the plant, although the greenery, roots, and seeds are all useful due to the high levels of critical nutrients they contain.
In addition, some choose to sweeten or season it with salt before consuming it. Kiwano has been shown to improve memory and focus, stop the progression of degenerative illnesses, help you lose weight, keep your skin clear of imperfections, speed up your metabolism, make your eyesight clearer, fortify your muscles, control your appetite, make you feel younger, and lessen swelling.
The kiwano melon, native to the southern and central parts of Africa, is a rare and unusual-looking tropical fruit. Ripe kiwano melons have vivid orange skin that is thick and covered in tiny spiky horns. Gelatinous lime-green or yellow flesh lines the interior, concealing a plethora of tasty seeds. Even though kiwano melons aren’t something you’d find in a typical fruit basket, they may have health benefits if consumed regularly.
What are the medical advantages of Kiwano?
Kiwano is a fruit that is abundant in nutrients, has a low-calorie count, does not contain cholesterol, and is packed with a variety of substances that are beneficial to one’s health. Kiwano is a type of fruit that has been shown to have a variety of positive effects on one’s health. Adding kiwano to a person’s diet, for instance, has been shown to enhance the breakdown of food, the amount of antioxidants present, the ability to lose weight, promote the ability to see and bone density, regulate sugar levels, and keep away diabetes. There is not a lot of research available to support claims that kiwano is good for your health. The majority of the research examining the effects of ingesting horned melon fruit was conducted on rodents. Despite this, a few investigations have pointed out specific possible benefits of ingesting horned melon fruit.
Many academics have published articles discussing the application of kiwi leaves, which are unlikely to be included with the fruit if you purchase it from your neighborhood supermarket. Numerous of these traditional applications of kiwi fruit and kiwi leaves have not been put through the rigors of scientific investigation.
For instance, the fruit has been utilized in the treatment of individuals who were found to be positive for HIV/AIDS, although there is a dearth of proof to support this application. Individuals that live in the Kalahari Desert look for the fruit as a source of water, in addition to eating it. Traditional South African treatment calls for the leaves to be chewed or consumed for their anti-fatigue effect.
However, here is what we know based on the scant research that has been done so far. There is a need for research to be undertaken on humans to understand the advantages this fruit may give.
Following are the medical advantages of Kiwano
Protecting Against Diabetes
Because of its high fiber content, kiwano can help reduce the possibility of diabetes by reducing the rate at which sugar is absorbed into the bloodstream. Kiwano’s strong magnesium content also benefits glucose control. Researchers found that magnesium supplementation improved insulin sensitivity and the absorption of glucose in type 2 diabetics. Kiwano also has a low glycemic index, thus consuming it won’t cause a spike in blood sugar. Therefore, if you or a loved one has the disease, Kiwano is the best fruit option.
High in Antioxidants
Antioxidants like α and β-tocopherol, both of which are derived from vitamin E, are plentiful in kiwano. These antioxidants defend against macular degeneration, cardiovascular illness, and malignancy by boosting the body’s defenses, maintaining healthy neurons and blood vessels, and neutralizing free radicals which trigger oxidative damage to cells. Vitamin E has been linked to a lower incidence of dementia and Parkinson’s disease. The substantial antioxidant levels in kiwano make it useful for keeping skin clear. Vitamin C, which is present in Kiwano, boosts collagen formation, which in turn offers your skin a youthful appearance and helps prevent premature aging.
Promote Healthy Vision
The high levels of β-carotene and vitamin A in kiwano are beneficial to eyesight. Because of its antioxidant capabilities, it prevents macular degeneration, which is caused by free radical damage to eye cells. Vitamin A also protects the lining of the nose, throat, and intestines from infection and is crucial for maintaining healthy eyesight. Intake of Kiwano has been linked by studies to a reduction in the risk of developing cataracts and other eye issues.
Slows Down Aging
Horned melon is a good source of vitamin C and other nutrients necessary for normal bodily function. For instance, a 100 g serving of kiwano has 5.3 mg of vitamin C. Collagen is a component of skin tissue that is used to heal cracked skin and organ tissues, and Kiwano aids in its production. The fruit also prevents cell damage from free radicals and toxins, which are linked to a wide range of age-related diseases. Kiwano’s anti-aging properties extend to the prevention of scars, and age spots when used regularly.
Stimulate Your Body’s Metabolism
The amount of zinc in a 100g Kiwano is 0.48 milligrams. Zinc is a necessary nutrient for injuries, cells, blood vessels, and cell repair and production, as well as for red blood cell formation. Furthermore, the zinc in Kiwano is adequate, so it promotes healthy glucose metabolism and aids in the breakdown of insulin.
Aids Digestion
Due to its high fiber content, kiwano facilitates digestion and encourages regular stool elimination. Consuming adequate dietary fiber aids in decreasing cramping, gas, and constipation. It helps eliminate toxins in the urinary tract and prevents cancers of the colon and stomach. Antibacterial and antiviral qualities found in abundance in kiwano help it fight off a wide range of stomach bugs. It also has antioxidant qualities, which help to counteract the free radicals which trigger oxidative harm to cells and are a major contributor to the development of several distinct kinds of stomach cancer.
Protect Your Heart’s Health
The high fiber content of kiwano has been linked to improved heart function. It’s beneficial for minimizing heart disease by reducing bad cholesterol (LDL) and raising good cholesterol (HDL) levels. Kiwano seeds contain linoleic acid, which has been shown to benefit cardiac wellness by strengthening heart muscles. Omega-6 is an example of an unsaturated fatty acid that can aid in the treatment of cardiovascular disease. Due to its high magnesium content, kiwano can reduce stress on the heart, maintain healthy blood pressure, and protect against cardiovascular disease. Elevated magnesium levels have been shown to reduce the risk of metabolic syndromes.
Bringing Down Blood Pressure
Because of its high potassium and electrolyte content, kiwano is effective in reducing blood pressure. Sodium raises heart rate and blood pressure, whereas potassium in cells and fluids in the body helps keep things in check. Potassium’s role as a vasodilator also contributes to its ability to reduce blood pressure by making blood vessels and arteries more flexible.
What are the adverse effects of Kiwano?
In addition, there is a lack of studies accessible regarding the adverse consequences of kiwano. People who suffer from oral allergy syndrome (OAS), on the other hand, are more likely to have a negative response if they consume kiwano because it is linked to cucumbers and melons. In addition, individuals who are allergic to pollen may experience bad responses when they consume Kiwano. The sensation of itching or throat may be an indication of a reaction to an allergen. Hives, scratchy ears, and trouble inhaling may also be symptoms of an allergic reaction.
When they are immature, the more bitter varieties of kiwano may include potentially harmful levels of chemicals that are absent in the mature form of the fruit and are therefore safe to consume. Symptoms of this poisoning include issues with the digestive system, pain in the head, and running your body with a high temperature; nevertheless, it isn’t believed to be lethal. It remains unclear whether or not this fruit reacts with drugs or if it can produce any harmful responses.
How to consume this fruit?
At first appearance, a kiwano melon might not look like it would be suitable for consumption at all. It seems less probable to be a fruit compared to its likelihood to be anything that came from outer space. The rind on the outside is thick and coated in little spikes all around. Even while the skin can be eaten, the majority of individuals prefer to consume the gooey, seed-filled meat that is located inside the fruit. Numerous individuals consume the seeds as well because of how difficult it is to separate them from the pulp due to their enormous abundance. If you are feeling particularly daring, you can try eating the rind, but you should remove the spikes first.
The taste of kiwano melon is described as mild with a hint of sweetness. It has a flavor that is comparable to that of its near relative, the cucumber. There’s a possibility that you’ll pick up on a faint banana flavor when it’s at its peak of ripeness. The easiest way to consume a kiwano melon is to cut it in half lengthwise and remove the pulp with a spoon while it is still attached to the rind. Certain individuals improve the flavor by adding a tiny bit of salt or sugar to it. any raw or cooked, it’s delicious anyway. You may include the pulp in smoothies, or you may utilize it as a topping for yogurt, or cereal if you’re feeling very inventive. In addition to that, it is a delectable ingredient that can be added to sauces and salads.
The Bottom Line
Numerous medical advantages can be reaped from eating kiwano melons, an exotic fruit with African origins. Its orange skin is so thick and coated in spikes that it can look dangerous. However, after you cut it open, eating the pulp is as easy as scooping it out with a spoon. Adding this fruit to your diet is a great way to spice things up and get some extra nutrients. This fruit has a lengthy shelf life; they will keep for three to five months if kept dry. It doesn’t require refrigeration, however, it should be stored at room temperature and used shortly after purchase. Ripe Kiwanos have a yellow-orange shell and their horns should still be attached. Any discoloration or soft spots on the surface should be avoided. They taste really good for seeds. The hollow centers of Kiwano Melons create attractive vessels for soups, sorbets, and desserts.
Kiwano is a healthy alternative that tastes great and gives you energy. It is associated with cucumbers and melons, therefore if you have an allergy to those foods, you may also have a food allergy to Kiwano.
Sirisha B