Though commonly thought to be a vegetable, cucumber
is actually a fruit. Cucumber is a fruit from the
Cucurbitaceae family. Scientifically known as Cucumis
sotivus, it belongs to the same family as zucchini,
watermelon, pumpkin, and other types of summer squash.
Ihe plant where cucumber grows is a creeping vine that
develops these cylindrical, edible fruits throughout the year.
Cucumbers are usually cylindrical in shape and vary in
length from about six to nine inches. However, the size of
CUCumbers varies according to a variety of cultivating
factors. You will find different varieties of cucumber grown in
different regions, and they are usually eaten fresh or
pickled. Cucumbers, typically eaten fresh are called slicing
cucumbers. Gherkin cucumbers are specially produced to
make pickles. These are much smaller in size than the slicing
ones.
There is another variety of cucumber known as "burpless.
Grown in greenhouses, it is seedless with thinner skin and o
longer length usually between 12 and 20 inches. It is bought
by a majority of people since it is easier to digest than other
varieties.
The skin of cucumber can vary in colour from green to
white, and sometimes it may be smooth or ridged depending
on the variety. Inside the cucumber skin, you will find pale
green flesh that is thick yet aqueous and crispy at the same
time. The interior core of cucumber has numerous, edible
fleshy seeds.
Cucumber, whatever variety, is extremely beneficial for
overall health, especially during the summer, since it is mostly
made of water and important nutrients that are essential for
the human body. The flesh of cucumber is rich in vitamins A, C)
and folic acid while the hard skin is rich in fiber and a range
of minerals including magnesium, molybdenum, and
potassium. Additionally, cucumber contains silica, a trace
mineral that contributes greatly to strengthening our
connective tissues. It is known to heal many skin problems,
under eye swelling, and sunburn. Cucumber also contains
body (dehydration); hence, it is frequently applied topically to Burns and dermatitis
ascorbic and caffeic acids which prevent water loss from the body
Cucumber also helps to protect your body from constipation and kidney stones because it is a perfect blend of both fibre and water, regulates blood pressure; contributes to the proper structure of connective tissues in
your body, including those in the muscles, bones, ligaments,
cartiloge, and tendons, and manages diabetes.
of both fiber and woter; regulates blood pressure;
Cucumber hos excellent deaning properties, and it
octively removes occumulated waste and toxins from your
body. It is very good tor optimizing urinary bladder, kidney,
liver and pancreatic functions. Cucumber juice along with
carrot juice is extremely effective for rheumatic conditions
coused by excessive uric acid in the body. Drinking cucumber
helps to cure arthritis, asthma,gout and eczema. If you are
having lung or stomach problems, be sure to add it to your diet.It also promotes muscle flexibility, while the magnesium content of the fruit
ensures proper blood circulation and relaxed nerves. Since Cucumber is rich in minerals, it prevents Splitting of the finger and toe nails. Cucumber often acts as antioxidants when you
consume it with barbecued and fried foods.