Many exotic fruits and vegetables settle confidently in our gardens. Now, few people will be surprised by the arbor from kiwi, feijoa and many other plants that were previously considered exotic. So momordica - whether a vegetable or a fruit - is increasingly appearing on our shelves. And for some housewives, canned momordica is a familiar dish.
Momordica: general information
Other names for this fruit are "Indian cucumber," "Chinese bitter melon." Momordica belongs to the pumpkin family, and in appearance it resembles a cucumber, only with large warts. The plant grows in Africa, India, South America and Australia. But some varieties have already been successfully grown in the southern regions of Russia and Ukraine. Unripe fruit has a dark green color, and already ripe - bright orange. Momordica is translated as “biting”. And it is no accident: the stem, leaves of the plant and green fruits are covered with hairs, which cause skin irritation. But as the fruit ripens, the hairs fall off and no longer do any harm.
Momordica: application
In many southern countries, Indian cucumber is widely used in cooking, and absolutely all parts of the plant are suitable. Unripe fruits are eaten (since they are less bitter). They are boiled, stewed, fried along with other vegetables and fruits. When the momordica ripens, it opens like a lily. Inside the ripened fruit are bright red berries, in appearance resembling something between a dogwood and pomegranate. They taste sweet and juicy. These berries can be eaten raw, as well as cook from them jams, preserves and compotes. But this plant is used not only in cooking, it also helps in the treatment of certain diseases.
Momordica plant: traditional medicine recipes
Momordica is widespread in eastern medicine, but now more and more often in our country they are resorting to the healing power of Indian cucumber. The chemical composition of the plant is quite rich. It includes saponins, alkaloids, some amino acids, oils, phenols. The berries of this fruit contain a lot of vitamin C, carotene, B vitamins and calcium. So, calcium is the key to strong bones and teeth. Vitamin B is simply necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system, and vitamin C helps the body fight stress, infectious diseases and is also a very powerful antioxidant. Carotene is processed by our adrenal glands and in the liver turns into vitamin A.
Momordica: an insect bite recipe
Crumpled Indian cucumber leaves help reduce itching and swelling after insect bites. In southern countries, snake bites are also treated in this way. It should also be emphasized that the pulp from the leaves, mixed with honey, helps to cure gasoline burns.
Momordica: broth recipe
A decoction of seeds and fetal momordica helps reduce blood sugar in diabetics and increase insulin production. And the broth can be taken with a flu epidemic. Preparation of broth: take a handful of seeds or other parts of the fruit and pour a glass of water. Then boil for several minutes and cool the broth. Take 50 g several times a day.
Momordica: a recipe for hemorrhoids
A broth from the seeds of momordic is successfully treated with hemorrhoids. In addition, the work of the kidneys and urinary tract improves due to the diuretic effect of this fetus. Prepare the infusion according to the recipe indicated above.
Momordica: a recipe for facial rejuvenation
Hoods, infusions and masks from the fruits of Indian cucumber reduce wrinkles and increase skin turgor.
Momordica: medical prescriptions and contraindications
There is evidence that decoctions from this plant kill bacteria such as streptococci and staphylococci, and are also effectively used to treat cancerous tumors. The root of the plant is used as a powerful aphrodisiac. But despite the positive effect on the body, there are still contraindications for the use of momordic. It should not be used by pregnant and lactating mothers, since some of the substances that make up the plant can cause premature birth or vaginal bleeding.