Refreshing Reasons Why Cucamelon Is A Pleasantry

When I first heard about cucamelons, I was searching the internet for something to write about. I've never heard of the small fruit, but I thought it would be interesting to explore. As small as they look, cucamelons have a huge impact on our health and our body.

Scientifically known as Melothria scabra, cucamelons originated in Mexico and Central America. The Mexican miniature watermelon is a member of the cucumber family, Cucurbitaceae. The fruit grows to be grape-sized, approximately three centimeters and two centimeters wide. Cucamelon is considered a male and female plant, or monoecious, which can pollinate itself. The herbaceous plant is in season between July to September. The flowers of the plant are small and solid yellow with petals that range between four to five millimeters. The fruit flowers and blooms during the warm months, May and June, growing upwards of three meters tall!

Cucamelons are FULL of beneficial antioxidants!

I had no idea the Mexican Sour Gherkin, an alternate name for cucamelon, was packed with antioxidants!

Antioxidants are essential for daily living because it protects the body from harmful ailments, including but not limited to oxidative stress, premature aging, sicknesses, and diseases.

According to Dr. Axe, cucamelons contain various antioxidants such as lycopene and beta carotene, vitamins C, E, and K.

Lycopene protects the body from oxidative stress that contributes to cell redevelopment and disease.

Studies show diets with lycopene can positively affect cancer or reduce the risks of cardiovascular diseases.

Beta carotene is a carotenoid that acts as an antioxidant in the body. The carotenoid forms as Vitamin A in the [human] body, being beneficial for brain function, healthy skin, and vision.

Studies published in Scientific Reports stated high beta-carotene levels in plasma can lower the risks of all-cause morality.

The Vitamin C found in the Mexican sour cucumber neutralizes free radicals, lowers inflammation, and increases immunity function.

Various studies established facts Vitamin C can improve the [human] body's immunity against harmful pathogens.

Cucamelons protect your cardiovascular system like it's the President.

I don't believe the President has as much security as cucamelons have for our health.

Vitamin K, also known as potassium, is vital for our nutritional value. It's important to the body as it helps organs, the brain, heart, and kidney function with our cardiovascular system.

Luckily for our health, the powerful superfood is filled with anti-inflammatory and brain-boosting properties.

The Guadeloupe cucumber's skin is adequate with soluble fiber which helps you stay full longer.

Studies revealed eating soluble fiber could reduce risks of cardiovascular diseases.

Try cucamelons!

Since the Creeping Cucumber doesn't grow any larger than grapes, it's easy to grow the fruit.

The taste of the miniature fruit is a cross between watermelon and cucumber.

Cucamelons' skin and peels are edible. You can pickle them or add them to your favorite salsas. I love to eat them raw which makes them great substitutes when I'm out of cucumbers for my salads.

You can also cook them which I intend to try as a recipe with a few other vegetables.

If you want to add to your food garden, cucamelons are a great addition. The flowering of the plant takes place between May and June. The fruit blossoms at the bottom of the female plant.

Try growing a few cucamelon seeds during the summertime, so you can enjoy them during the late summer and early fall!

I've discovered cucamelons are a rarity in-store grocery chains, so I'm elated when I frequent and shop in international grocery food stores.

How do you feel about cucamelons?

Would you add them to your salads?

What's your preferred cooking style for cucamelons?

Let's start the conversation below!