Sponge gourd, a seasonal summer vegetable, may lower blood pressure, reduce blood lipids, and alleviate constipation. The gourd, common in Chinese cuisine, may also help reduce swelling and prevent gout, and has potential antiviral and anticancer properties.
The oblong vegetable grows on vines like cucumber and is rich in vitamin C and minerals such as magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, and plant protein.
Zhang Weijun, director of Ji-Sheng Traditional Chinese Medical Clinic in Taiwan, told us about the medicinal benefits and dietary uses of sponge gourd, as well as how to make homemade sponge gourd water for skin care.
