Quick Fix: Muskmelon For Constipation

May 17, 2015

Muskmelon (Cucumis melo), a popular fruit in tropical countries, is an excellent source of the antioxidant vitamin C. It is a known immunity booster that strengthens the immune system by increasing the white blood cell count and preventing premature aging of cells. Vitamin C also prevents hardening of the arteries.

Muskmelons are cholesterol-free, which makes them an excellent fruit for heart patients. The fruit is also rich in potassium, which prevents the occurrence of strokes and controls blood pressure. Vitamin A and beta-carotene present in the fruit also reduce the risk of cataracts.(1)

Muskmelon For Constipation
Muskmelon has a significant amount of dietary fiber, which improves bowel movement and could benefit people suffering from constipation. A study found that the medicinal use of the ethanol extract from muskmelon can relieve constipation and abdominal swelling.(2)

How To Take It
1. You can simply have it raw or make a glass of fresh muskmelon juice. Wash the melon thoroughly before chopping and juicing. This is essential as it may be covered with edible wax to prevent loss of moisture.

2. To make melon juice, cut it lengthwise and scoop the juicy flesh with a spoon. Put it in a mixer and blend well to make a smoothie and strain. Drink four to six ounces of this juice every two hours to find relief from constipation.

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References:
1. Soumya V. Menon, T.V. Ramana Rao, Nutritional quality evaluation of non‐netted muskmelon fruit during its development and ripening. Nutrition & Food Science 2013 43:4 , 398-406

2. Gao Y, Cai RL, Xie C, Lin YL, Zhang L, Qi Y. Pharmacological basis for the medicinal use of muskmelon base (Pedicellus Melo.) for abdominal distention and constipation. J Ethnopharmacol. 2012 Jun 26;142(1):129-35. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2012.04.025. Epub 2012 Apr 20. PubMed PMID: 22543170.