Cucumbers are very high in water content and very low in calories. They have potential anti-diabetic, lipid lowering and antioxidant activity. Cucumbers have a cleansing action within the body. They remove accumulated pockets of old waste materials and chemical toxins.
The scientific name for cucumber is Cucumis sativus. It belongs to the same botanical family as melons, squash and pumpkins, the Cucurbitaceae family. Cucumbers are a rich source of triterpene phytonutrients called cucurbitacins. Cucurbitacins A, B, C, D and E are all contained in fresh cucumber. They have been the subject of active and ongoing research to determine the extent and nature of their anti-cancer properties.1
Based on Ayurveda principles, cucumbers pacify Pitta dosha. They are cold in potency and hence can provide a cooling effect to the body when consumed.
What are the health benefits of cucumbers?
1. Weight Loss.
Due to their low calorie, plentiful fiber content and high water content, cucumbers are an ideal food for people who are looking for weight loss.
2. Prevents Constipation
Water and dietary fibers in cucumbers help prevent constipation.
3. Reduces Blood Pressure
Cucumbers contain a lot of potassium, magnesium and fiber. These work effectively to reduce blood pressure.
4. Skin Health
The cooling action of cucumbers can help in skincare.
1. Dark Circles
Take two cucumber slices and place over the eyes. Leave them there for 15-20 minutes. Regular use can reduce dark circles and tiredness for a flawless look.
2. Glowing Facial Mask
Mix cucumber juice with a few drops of lemon juice and apply it as a facial mask. This will improve the complexion and will add a glow to the skin.
3. Skin Toning Mask
Completely mash a cucumber, add in the juice of a lemon and 1 tsp honey. Apply over the face and leave on for 20 minutes. This mask acts as a skin toning mask.
4. Acne Remedy
For acne, mix equal quantities of cucumber pulp with yogurt and oatmeal powder. Add a tablespoon of honey (optional) and apply on the skin. Wash with cold water after 30-40 minutes. Use this mix regularly.
1. Healthy Cucumber Raita
Ingredients
1 cup chopped cucumber
1 cup yogurt
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
pinch of black pepper powder
a few chopped mint leaves
a few chopped coriander leaves
salt, to taste
Directions
Lightly dry roast the cumin seeds on a low flame. Cool it and then grind to a powder. Wash and peel the cucumber and chop into small bites. Add them to a bowl along with yogurt, salt and cumin powder. Add chopped coriander and mint leaves. Mix all the ingredients well. Garnish with black pepper powder.
2. Cucumber Celery Juice
Ingredients
2 cucumbers
10 stalks of celery
1 green apple, halved
1 lemon, peeled
Directions
Process all ingredients through a juicer. Pour and serve immediately.
3. Baked Cucumber Chips For Kids
Ingredients
2 medium cucumbers sliced thin
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
salt to taste
Directions
Slice cucumbers thin and pat them dry. Add them to a bowl and mix in the apple cider vinegar and the salt. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the cucumbers on the sheet, keeping them flat and separated. Bake at 170 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 hours approximately until they are dried and crispy. Serve hot.
References
1 GITTER, S, et al. “Studies on the Antitumor Effect of Cucurbitacins.” Cancer Research., U.S. National Library of Medicine, May 1961, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/13705788/.
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