Have you ever heard about the Creeping Cucumber? How does it look and taste? Is it edible and healthy? Where can we usually find this creeping cucumber? If you’re as curious as me, find out more about it, and take the time to read this article on the Creeping Cucumber.
The Tagalog name for creeping cucumber, Melothria pendula, is Pipinong gubat. It is a species of very tiny cucumbers with a smooth, watermelon-like fruit. This plant is always available and grows wild throughout the Philippine archipelago and neighboring nations. There are two opposing opinions when it comes to the creeping cucumber: either it is poisonous or edible. Some claim that it is hazardous, while others claim that it is safe. Basically, what they're trying to say is that it turns into the mother of laxatives. Those who believe it to be edible add pickled creeping cucumber to their green salad.
Studies show that the chemical bromatologic analysis of this creeping cucumber is composed of water, vitamins, minerals, and even some proteins. Although this creeping cucumber is tiny, It has a pleasant flavor and is edible for humans. Young fruits are edible, they can be eaten fresh or pickled, boiled, steamed, or stir-fried. Green fruits are crispy and juicy; also used as a salad ingredient. While it is young, it tastes just like cucumbers, and when it reaches its full size, it will taste like a not-very-ripe watermelon. However, some say that a black creeping cucumber should be avoided because it is said to cause diarrhea.
Creeping cucumbers are particularly nutrient-dense; they are made up of 56.8% carbs, 12.6% protein, and 16.30% fiber. Fruits that have been boiled are utilized as a heart disease treatment in Mexico. Due to its hypoglycemic impact, it is also utilized in the treatment of diabetes. Moreover, it is utilized as a sores and gastritis treatment. To wash burns and wounds, use an extract from the plant's leaves. The plant can be used to treat snake bites when it is crushed. The creeping cucumber has anti-inflammatory properties in general.
PDO I Ayesa Gay A. Bejerano, RND
References:
Creeping Cucumber
https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/Melothria_pendula
Creeping Cucumber: Melothria Pendula
https://www.eattheweeds.com/creeping-cucumber-melothria-pendula/
