Ash gourd, also known as petha in hindi, is generally cultivated for its nourishing and medicinal values. It contains calcium, phosphorous, iron, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin C.

Here are some of the benefits of ash gourd:

•    It is alkaline and has a strong antacid action. It maintains the pH of the body and counteracts the acidity created in the stomach because of acidic foods.

•    It helps in treating constipation and tones up the digestive system.

•    Being extremely low in calories, this vegetable is used to treat obesity as it promotes metabolism and prevents sugar (carbohydrates) from being converted into fat.

•    Cough, common cold, fever, influenza, bronchitis, and sinusitis can be controlled with this vegetable without any side effects.

•    Severe and chronic asthma can be controlled with regular consumption of ash gourd.

•    Ash gourd also helps lessen the thyroid problems mostly in women.

•    It can also help fight mouth cancer. Regular gargling with its juice protects teeth and gums.

•    Ash gourd is also an effective cure for bleeding gums.

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