Ash gourd is known by variety of names such as wax gourd, winter melon, white gourd. In Tamil, it is called Neer poosanikkai. It has very mild taste, so it is easy to incorporate into salads, smoothies and juices. Ash gourd is primarily composed of water (about 96%). It also has minerals and B-complex vitamins. It enhances the intellectual capabilities and also treats mild dysentry. Lets see how to prepare a cooling Ash gourd juice.

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup – 1 inch sized Ash gourd cubes

1 tbspn lemon juice

A pinch of Salt

A pinch of pepper powder

INSTRUCTIONS:

Remove the rinds of ash gourd and cut the flesh into cubes. Don’t remove the seeds as it has medicinal properties.

Blend the flesh and seeds to smooth puree and strain it. Discard the pulp.

Add lemon juice , pepper powder and mix well. Serve chilled.

Note:

• People with the history of asthma or sinusitis may avoid ash gourd, as it may cause too much coolness in body.
• You can also add honey instead of lemon juice.