Ash gourd and its applications in the food, pharmacological and biomedical industries

Ash gourd [Benincasa hispida (Thunb.)] is a vegetable used in many countries. More frequently vegetables are being sought to be more than just a source of nourishment; consumers are looking for functional and nutritionally active foods. Normally the entire ash gourd plant, including fruit peel, flower, seed, and leaves are used. Biochemical activity of the fruit includes anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, detoxificant, and curvative effects in treating various ailments. The essential minerals Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, Zn and Se are present. The review examines the use of ash gourd as a food and for medicinal uses.