Health Benefits Of Cucumber

Cucumber (cucmis sativus) belongs to the family of zucchini, pumpkin, and watermelon. Cucumbers are a very good source of Vitamin A, C, fiber and folic acid. This nutritious food contains good quantity of minerals also in its outer layer. Magnesium, silica, molybdenum and potassium are present in the hard outer skin of cucumber. Cucumber is used the world over in the shape of salad. Some people also like to eat cucumber as pickle. Cucumbers that are used to be eaten fresh as salad are known as Slicing cucumbers and for pickles Gherkins cucumbers are specifically cultivated.

Cucumbers are native to Africa but are also found in southern Asia.  In ancient Greek, Egypt and Rome, cucumber was used by people not only as a food item but also as a medicine for treating skin problems. Louis XIV was the great appreciator of cucumber. It was also popular in ancient Europe and America. The cylindrical shape and green color makes cucumber a good material to decorate the plate too.

Various varieties of cucumber are available in market. About 6-9 inch in length, cucumbers are available in market in two colors – green and white.  Yellow and puffy cucumbers should be avoided. Cucumber is a little bit bitter in taste so it is advised that before eating cucumber just cut a thin slice of cucumber from the top and rub it on the head of cucumber. Then it releases some foamy water. By applying this method its bitterness can be removed effectively.

As it is the beginning of summers, the intake of cucumber can give you a cooling effect. Most of the part of cucumber contains water. The water element is helpful in lessening the warmness of summers. People eat cucumber especially in the hot months-May to July in India. It gives taste as well as freshness. Cucumber is also suggested for healthy skin.

In summers, skin rashes, inflammation and sunburns are common problems. By applying grated cucumber on the affected part, you can get relief. Cucumber is also eye-friendly. After a tired day you can relax your beautiful eyes by putting slices of cucumber on your eyes for 15-20 minutes. It also gives relief in case of eye swelling. Due to caffeic acid and ascorbic component, cucumber is useful for skin and eyes. It also gives strength to our connective tissues.

Cucumber flesh contains ascorbic acid and the hard skin contains fiber, silica and potassium. The silica element is very beneficial for the health of connective tissues such as muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones. Silica is also used in beauty products and is good for improving the complexion of skin. High water content of cucumber keeps your skin lustrous.

Cucumber is also helpful in treating the problem of high blood pressure. According to a study, potassium, fiber and magnesium present in cucumber make it highly useful in maintaining balanced level of blood pressure. Cucumber is also not much costly, is easily available and suits your taste as well.  So, make it a necessary part of your diet. Today only!