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Cucumber
Cucumber
Cucumbers are low in calories and rich in water and soluble fibres. A single cucumber is made up of about 96% water.
Being low in calories and high in water content, Cucumbers are very effective for weight loss as well as managing dehydration. They can be taken as part of the daily diet in the form of raw salads. Additionally, taking Cucumber juice during breakfast helps provide relief from urinary tract infection.
Applying Cucumber pulp or its juice on the skin helps reduce the effects of sunburn, prevents acne and reduces dark circles as well as puffiness around the eyes. This is due to its Sita (cooling), Ropan (healing) and Kashaya (astringent) properties[2][3][6].
Being low in calories and high in water content, Cucumbers are very effective for weight loss as well as managing dehydration. They can be taken as part of the daily diet in the form of raw salads. Additionally, taking Cucumber juice during breakfast helps provide relief from urinary tract infection.
Applying Cucumber pulp or its juice on the skin helps reduce the effects of sunburn, prevents acne and reduces dark circles as well as puffiness around the eyes. This is due to its Sita (cooling), Ropan (healing) and Kashaya (astringent) properties[2][3][6].
What are the synonyms of Cucumber?
Cucumis sativus, Svetakarahatakam, Sudhavasah, Mutralam, Kantakiphalam, Ksheeraa, Shashaa, Taanslee, Kheeraa, Mullusavte, Santekaayi, Vellari, Tause, Khiraa, Kantiaali Kaakudi, Vellarikkaay, Pippinkaay, Khirakaya[1]
What is the source of Cucumber?
Plant Based
Benefits of Cucumber
1. Urinary tract infection (UTI)
Urinary tract infection is describe under the broad term of Mutrakcchra in Ayurveda. Mutra means ooze, krichra means painful. Thus, dysuria and painful urination is called as Mutrakcchra. In urinary tract infection, Cucumber juice helps to control burning sensation due to its Sita (cold) property. It also helps eliminate toxins from the body due to its Mutral (diurectic) effect.
Tips:
a. Take 1/2-1 Cucumber.
b. Wash and peel.
c. Cut it into small pieces and add to blender with water.
d. Filter the mixture to separate the juice.
e. Add honey if you want.
f. Take it in breakfast once a day to get relieve from the symptoms of UTI.
2. Gouty Arthritis
Cucumber helps to reduce the symptoms of Gouty arthritis. Gout is a painful metabolic disease resulting in inflammation and deposition of uric acid in the joints. In Ayurveda, gout is known as Vatarakt, as the main dosha involved is Vata and it affects Blood (Rakta), thus Vatarakt. Taking Cucumber juice helps to eliminate uric acid and remove toxins from the body due to its Mutral (diuretic) property.
Tips:
a. Take 1/2-1 Cucumber.
b. Wash and peel.
c. Cut it into small pieces and add to blender with water.
d. Filter the mixture to separate the juice.
e. Add honey if you want.
f. Take it in breakfast once a day to manage gouty arthritis.
Urinary tract infection is describe under the broad term of Mutrakcchra in Ayurveda. Mutra means ooze, krichra means painful. Thus, dysuria and painful urination is called as Mutrakcchra. In urinary tract infection, Cucumber juice helps to control burning sensation due to its Sita (cold) property. It also helps eliminate toxins from the body due to its Mutral (diurectic) effect.
Tips:
a. Take 1/2-1 Cucumber.
b. Wash and peel.
c. Cut it into small pieces and add to blender with water.
d. Filter the mixture to separate the juice.
e. Add honey if you want.
f. Take it in breakfast once a day to get relieve from the symptoms of UTI.
2. Gouty Arthritis
Cucumber helps to reduce the symptoms of Gouty arthritis. Gout is a painful metabolic disease resulting in inflammation and deposition of uric acid in the joints. In Ayurveda, gout is known as Vatarakt, as the main dosha involved is Vata and it affects Blood (Rakta), thus Vatarakt. Taking Cucumber juice helps to eliminate uric acid and remove toxins from the body due to its Mutral (diuretic) property.
Tips:
a. Take 1/2-1 Cucumber.
b. Wash and peel.
c. Cut it into small pieces and add to blender with water.
d. Filter the mixture to separate the juice.
e. Add honey if you want.
f. Take it in breakfast once a day to manage gouty arthritis.
How to use Cucumber
1. Cucumber salad
a. Take 1-2 Cucumber.
b. Wash them and cut into pieces of desired size.
c. Add other vegetables of your liking.
d. Squeeze ½ lemon and sprinkle some salt to taste.
e. Have this Cucumber salad before or during the meals.
2. Cucumber raita
a. Take 1-2 Cucumber.
b. Wash and grate them evenly.
c. Add curd to it.
d. Also add salt to taste.
e. Mix all the ingredients properly and have it at lunch.
3. Cucumber Juice
a. Take 1/2-1 Cucumber.
b. Wash and peel.
c. Cut it into small pieces and add to blender with water.
d. Filter the mixture to separate the juice.
e. Add honey if you want.
f. Take it in breakfast once a day.
a. Take 1-2 Cucumber.
b. Wash them and cut into pieces of desired size.
c. Add other vegetables of your liking.
d. Squeeze ½ lemon and sprinkle some salt to taste.
e. Have this Cucumber salad before or during the meals.
2. Cucumber raita
a. Take 1-2 Cucumber.
b. Wash and grate them evenly.
c. Add curd to it.
d. Also add salt to taste.
e. Mix all the ingredients properly and have it at lunch.
3. Cucumber Juice
a. Take 1/2-1 Cucumber.
b. Wash and peel.
c. Cut it into small pieces and add to blender with water.
d. Filter the mixture to separate the juice.
e. Add honey if you want.
f. Take it in breakfast once a day.
Benefits of Cucumber
1. Sunburn
Sunburn occurs when the sun rays increase the Pitta present in the skin and reduce the Rasa Dhatu. Rasa Dhatu is the nourishing fluid which gives color, complexion and glow to the skin. Applying Cucumber juice/pulp helps to reduce burning sensation and heal the damage skin due to its Sita (cooling) and Ropan (healing) properties.
Tips:
a. Peel and blend 1-2 Cucumber or as per your need.
b. Apply the pulp to the affected area.
c. Repeat this once or twice a day to reduce sunburn.
2. Acne
Cucumber gives good result in case of skin problems like acne or pimples. According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha leads to an increased sebum production and clogging of pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. Another factor, an aggravation of Pitta causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. Applying Cucumber pulp or juice on the affected area prevents excessive sebum or oil production due to its Kashaya (astringent) property. It also reduces inflammation and removes pus due to its Sita (cold) and cleansing nature.
Tips:
a. Grate 1 Cucumber.
b. Add 1-2 teaspoons of besan and add water to make a paste.
c. Make a paste and apply on the affected area to get rid of acne or pimples.
3. Hair loss
According to Ayurveda, hair fall is due to an aggravated Vata dosha in the body. Cucumber helps to control hair fall when applied on the scalp. Applying ripe (yellow) Cucumber pulp helps in stimulating the growth of hair and makes them thick and healthy. This is due to its Vata balancing property. It also controls dandruff due to its Kashaya (astringent) nature.
Tips:
a. Take 1/2 - 1 cup of Cucumber pulp.
b. Make a paste with rose water.
c. Apply on the scalp properly.
d. Wait for at least 1-2 hours.
e. Wash with plain water.
f. Repeat this twice a day for healthy hair.
Sunburn occurs when the sun rays increase the Pitta present in the skin and reduce the Rasa Dhatu. Rasa Dhatu is the nourishing fluid which gives color, complexion and glow to the skin. Applying Cucumber juice/pulp helps to reduce burning sensation and heal the damage skin due to its Sita (cooling) and Ropan (healing) properties.
Tips:
a. Peel and blend 1-2 Cucumber or as per your need.
b. Apply the pulp to the affected area.
c. Repeat this once or twice a day to reduce sunburn.
2. Acne
Cucumber gives good result in case of skin problems like acne or pimples. According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha leads to an increased sebum production and clogging of pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. Another factor, an aggravation of Pitta causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. Applying Cucumber pulp or juice on the affected area prevents excessive sebum or oil production due to its Kashaya (astringent) property. It also reduces inflammation and removes pus due to its Sita (cold) and cleansing nature.
Tips:
a. Grate 1 Cucumber.
b. Add 1-2 teaspoons of besan and add water to make a paste.
c. Make a paste and apply on the affected area to get rid of acne or pimples.
3. Hair loss
According to Ayurveda, hair fall is due to an aggravated Vata dosha in the body. Cucumber helps to control hair fall when applied on the scalp. Applying ripe (yellow) Cucumber pulp helps in stimulating the growth of hair and makes them thick and healthy. This is due to its Vata balancing property. It also controls dandruff due to its Kashaya (astringent) nature.
Tips:
a. Take 1/2 - 1 cup of Cucumber pulp.
b. Make a paste with rose water.
c. Apply on the scalp properly.
d. Wait for at least 1-2 hours.
e. Wash with plain water.
f. Repeat this twice a day for healthy hair.
Recommended Dosage of Cucumber
- Cucumber Oil - 2-5 drops as per requirement.
How to use Cucumber
1. Raw Cucumber
a. Take 3-4 slices of Cucumber.
b. Put 2 slices on your eyelids.
c. Massage 1-2 slices on your face.
d. This will help you control dark circle and soothe your skin respectively.
2. Cucumber Juice Toner
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Cucumber juice.
b. Add rose water to it.
c. Dip a cotton pad into it.
d. Wipe your face and neck gently using the cotton pad.
e. Use this remedy preferably before going to bed to get rid of sun tan.
3. Cucumber Oil
a. Take 2-5 drops of Cucumber Oil
b. Add olive or coconut oil.
c. Apply on the affected area once or twice a day.
3. Cucumber Seed powder
a. Take ½- 1 teaspoon of Cucumber seed powder.
b. Make a paste with rose water or honey.
c. Apply it on the skin and let it sit for 20-30 minutes.
d. Wash with plain water.
e. Repeat it once or twice a week.
a. Take 3-4 slices of Cucumber.
b. Put 2 slices on your eyelids.
c. Massage 1-2 slices on your face.
d. This will help you control dark circle and soothe your skin respectively.
2. Cucumber Juice Toner
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Cucumber juice.
b. Add rose water to it.
c. Dip a cotton pad into it.
d. Wipe your face and neck gently using the cotton pad.
e. Use this remedy preferably before going to bed to get rid of sun tan.
3. Cucumber Oil
a. Take 2-5 drops of Cucumber Oil
b. Add olive or coconut oil.
c. Apply on the affected area once or twice a day.
3. Cucumber Seed powder
a. Take ½- 1 teaspoon of Cucumber seed powder.
b. Make a paste with rose water or honey.
c. Apply it on the skin and let it sit for 20-30 minutes.
d. Wash with plain water.
e. Repeat it once or twice a week.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Cucumber is a fruit. This is because it develops from flowers of Cucumber plant and contains seeds.
Modern Science View
There are various vegetables that contains about 90 percent of water. Cucumbers contain the highest amount of water about 95-96 percent.
Modern Science View
The best way to eat a Cucumber is in its unpeeled and raw form. Peeling off the Cucumber may lead to loss of certain fibres and nutrients. Also Cucumber contains high amount of water, so cooking is not recommended.
Modern Science View
Cucumber in general are good to be eaten on an empty stomach. In fact it is best to eat Cucumber before meals as it works as an appetizer due to its high fibre content.
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Cucumber can be eaten on an empty stomach especially before lunch because it works as an appetizer. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) property.
Modern Science View
Yes, the dark green coloured Cucumber skin is rich in antioxidants, insoluble fiber and potassium. It also contains high amount of vitamin K.
Ayurvedic View
Yes, you can eat the skin of Cucumber if your Agni (digestive fire) is healthy. This is because it is heavy and takes time to digest.
Modern Science View
Putting Cucumber on your eyes gives you instant relief from tired eyes. It also reduces swelling and puffiness around the eyes. It can be kept on the eyes for about 15-20 minutes.
Tips:
1. Take a chilled Cucumber from the refrigerator.
2. Wash it well.
3. Cut two thin slices.
4. Close your eyes and put the Cucumber slices on your eyelids.
5. Let it remain for about 15 minutes.
Tips:
1. Take a chilled Cucumber from the refrigerator.
2. Wash it well.
3. Cut two thin slices.
4. Close your eyes and put the Cucumber slices on your eyelids.
5. Let it remain for about 15 minutes.
Modern Science View
1. Take 1-2 Cucumber or as per your requirement.
2. Wash and slice them.
3. You can also add any other vegetables of your choice.
4. Squeeze ½ lemon and sprinkle some black or table salt. (Optional)
5. You can have this salad with or without meals.
2. Wash and slice them.
3. You can also add any other vegetables of your choice.
4. Squeeze ½ lemon and sprinkle some black or table salt. (Optional)
5. You can have this salad with or without meals.
Modern Science View
There is not enough scientific evidence available to support the consumption of Cucumber at night. However, Cucumber is rich in various nutrients and can be eaten at night.
Ayurvedic View
Cucumber can be consumed at any time of the day or night as it helps to balance all the three doshas and helps to maintain the water content of the body. If you have weak or poor digestion then you must avoid taking at night because Cucumber seeds are heavy to digest.
Modern Science View
Yes, Cucumber has blood sugar lowering property and is good for diabetes. Studies state that Cucumber stimulates insulin release from the β-cells of pancreas. This helps control high blood sugar level[3][4].
Ayurvedic View
Cucumbers are good for people with diabetes. It improves Agni (digestive fire) which reduces Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This corrects the impaired function of insulin and helps to maintain blood sugar level.
Modern Science View
Yes, Cucumber is good for acidity as it helps to neutralize the stomach acid. It helps balance the pH level in the stomach and reduce acidity[3].
Modern Science View
Cucumber has high water and potassium content and low sodium content. The peel of Cucumber is rich in dietary fiber which aids in digestion. Also, the intake of high fibrous food gives a sense of satiety. This controls frequent eating and helps in weight management[7].
Ayurvedic View
Eating Cucumber or its juice can cause cold because of its Sita (cold) property. It increases Kapha in the body and leads to cold especially in the winter season. It is advisable to avoid Cucumber juice at night.
Modern Science View
Cucumber juice has various benefits. It contains 95% water, essential vitamins and minerals like calcium, potassium and magnesium which hydrates the body and improves digestion by removing the toxins. This helps to replenish the nutrients lost from the body. Cucumber has strong antioxidant activity which fights against free radicals and prevents further cell damage in case of cancer. It also controls high blood pressure due to its hypotensive and diuretic property[15].
Ayurvedic View
Cucumber juice helps to maintain the water level in the body and also helps in better urine flow in order to release toxins out of the body. This is due to its Mutral (diuretic) property. It also helps to balance Pitta dosha in the body and also gives a cooling effect due to its Sita (cold) property.
Tips
1. Take 1/2-1 Cucumber.
2. Wash and peel.
3. Cut it into small pieces and add to blender with water.
4. Filter the mixture to separate the juice.
5. Add honey if you want.
6. Take it in breakfast once a day.
Tips
1. Take 1/2-1 Cucumber.
2. Wash and peel.
3. Cut it into small pieces and add to blender with water.
4. Filter the mixture to separate the juice.
5. Add honey if you want.
6. Take it in breakfast once a day.
Modern Science View
There is not enough scientific evidence available to support the role of Cucumber pickle for good health. However, pickles are prepared using salt or vinegar that adds to sodium content. High sodium content might cause heart or blood pressure related complications[10][11].
Modern Science View
There is not enough scientific evidence available to support the role of Cucumber in preventing acidity. However cases of irritable bowel syndrome have been reported because of the consumption of Cucumbers[12][13].
Ayurvedic View
No Cucumber does not cause gas. It prevents gas formation by improving digestion. This is due to its Vata balancing property. When consumed in a raw state, Cucumber might cause gas in some patients with poor digestive system.
Modern Science View
Cucumber is good for the skin as it contains several chemical components that has the potential to nourish the skin. It gives a soothing effect against skin irritations and reduces swelling. Cucumber also has the potential to give relief from the pain associated with sunburn[5].
Ayurvedic View
Cucumber is good for all type of skin. It helps manage various skin problems due to its Sita (cold) and Ropan(healing) nature.
Modern Science View
Although there is no evidence found for any allergic reaction from Cucumber, it is advisable to do a patch test using Cucumber juice or pulp.
Modern Science View
Cucumber juice contains high amount of sulphur and silicon which are considered to be essential for the growth of hair follicles. It also has a hydrating property that helps manage dry scalp[9][14].
Ayurvedic View
Hairfall might sometimes occur due to an imbalanced Pitta dosha. Cucumber helps to balance Pitta dosha and helps to control hair fall and enhance hair growth.
Modern Science View
Yes, Cucumber is used to manage dark circles due to the presence of vitamin K. It also has photoprotective property that reduces melanin formation and thereby reduce dark circles[9].
Ayurvedic View
Dark circles are the result of an aggravated Pitta dosha in the body. Cucumber helps to manage dark circles by balancing Pitta dosha. It also provides a cooling effect due to its Sita (cold) property which helps to reduce the stress from the eyes.
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
- Sahu T, Sahu J.Cucumis sativus (Cucumber): A review on its pharmacological activity.Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Research.2015;3(1):4-9.
- Mallik J, Das P, Das S.PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITY OF CUCUMIS SATIVUS L. – A COMPLETE OVERVIEW.AJPRD.2013;1(1):2-6.
- Sharmin R., Khan M., Akhter M.et.al. Hypoglycemic and Hypolipidemic Effects of Cucumber, White Pumpkin and Ridge Gourd in Alloxan Induced Diabetic Rats. J Sci Res.5(1):161-170.
- Mukherjee PK, Nema NK, Maity N.et.al.Phytochemical and therapeutic potential of Cucumber.Fitoterapia.2013;84:227-236.
- Heidari H, Kamalinejad M, Noubarani M.et.al.Protective mechanisms of Cucumis sativus in diabetes-related models of oxidative stress and carbonyl stress.Bioimpacts. 2016; 6(1): 33–39.
- Sudiana KI, Suarilah I, Rusdianingseh R.Cucumber juice decrease blood pressure on essential hypertension patient.UNAIR.2008;3(2).
- Maheshwari RK, Mohan L, Malhotra J.et.al.Invigorating Efficacy of Cucumis Sativas for Healthcare & Radiance.IJCPS, 2014, Vol.2(3): 737-744.
- Murad H.Evaluating the potential benefits of cucumbers for improved health and skin care. JARCP.2016;5(3):139-141.
- Aparna P, Salve HR, Anand K, et al. Knowledge and behaviors related to dietary salt and sources of dietary sodium in north India. J Family Med Prim Care. 2019;8(3):846-852.
- Camillo L. J, Hoppert CA, Fabian FW. An analytical study of cucumbers and cucumber pickles.Journal of Food Science. 1942;7: 339-352.
- Cozma-Petruţ A, Loghin F, Miere D,et al. Diet in irritable bowel syndrome: What to recommend, not what to forbid to patients! World J Gastroenterol. 2017;23(21):3771-3783.
- Mallik J, Das P, Das S.Pharmacological activity of Cucumis Sativus L. – A complete overview.AJPRD.2013;1(1):2-6.
- Vora, Jyoti D, Rane L, Kumar S.K. Biochemical, Anti-Microbial and Organoleptic Studies of Cucumber (Cucumis Sativus).IJSR.2014; 3(3):662-664.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.