Bioactivity and Vital Application of Underutilized Cucumis callosus Fruit: An Overview on the Present Status and Its Potential Utilization

Unexplored fruits and vegetables reveal a reservoir of potential, offering an excellent source of numerous biologically active and nutritional components. Cucumis callosus is one of the underutilized fruits from the Cucurbitaceae family, which presents promising yet underexplored potential for food and pharmaceutical applications. Hence, this review explores current knowledge on the bioactive properties and potential utilizations of Cucumis callosus , highlighting its phytochemical constituents, nutritional profile, and therapeutic benefits. Cucumis callosus exhibits significant antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti‐inflammatory activities due to the abundance of essential vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, phenolics, and saponins. These properties signify its effective utilization in developing functional foods, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceuticals aimed at combating oxidative stress, microbial infections, and inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, its traditional medicinal applications describe its relevance in ethnomedicine, where it has been used for treating various ailments, including diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, and skin diseases. Despite its evident potential, the commercial utilization and comprehensive scientific investigation of Cucumis callosus remain limited. This review also reveals for intensified research efforts to explore the mechanistic pathways of its bioactive compounds and their health benefits. Hence, by bridging the gap between traditional knowledge and recent scientific research, Cucumis callosus could emerge as a valuable resource in promoting health and wellness in society.