Tropical and subtropical vegetables (2+1)

Economic importance

• The tender leaves and buds are also used as vegetable. It is primarily grown for its young and mature fruits, which are consumed as such or used to make sugar candies. The surface of the fruit is covered with a bluish-white, 'waxy' ash. The fruit has a long shelf life.
• Fruits contain 0.4% protein, 1.9% carbohydrates, 0.3% minerals and traces of vitamin A, B and C per 100g edible portion. Ash gourd is considered good for people suffering from nervousness.