What is wild gourd?

Wild gourd, also known as ivy gourd or kundru, is a tropical plant that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. It is native to India and Southeast Asia but is also found in other parts of the world, including Africa, Australia, and the Caribbean.

The plant is a climbing vine that can reach a length of up to 30 feet and has heart-shaped leaves. The fruit of the wild gourd is small and oblong, growing up to two inches long, and is green when young, turning orange or reddish-brown when ripe. The fruit has a crisp texture and a slightly bitter taste.

Wild gourd is a popular vegetable in Indian cuisine and is used in various dishes such as curries and stews. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including diabetes and high blood pressure. Wild gourd is rich in vitamin C, iron, and fiber and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

However, wild gourd should be consumed in moderation as it contains a toxic compound called charantin, which can cause stomach upset and poisoning in large doses. It is recommended to cook the wild gourd before eating to neutralize the toxic compound.