CALABASH LEAF TINCTURE
Family: Cucurbitaceae
Genus: Lagenaria
Species: Lagenaria siceraria
Synonyms: Lagenaria vulgaris
Common Names: Calabash, Bottle gourd, White-flowered gourd, Long melon
Parts Used: Fruit, Leaves, Seeds
Main Actions: Diuretic, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory
Other Actions: Hypoglycemic, Antimicrobial, Hepatoprotective
Description: Calabash is a vine with large leaves and yellow flowers, producing elongated or spherical fruits. The fruits vary in size and color, ranging from green to white. The leaves are broad and heart-shaped.
Tribal and Herbal Medicine Uses: Used in traditional medicine for treating urinary disorders, liver conditions, inflammation, and as a hypoglycemic agent. Also employed for its antimicrobial properties.
Plant Chemicals: Contains flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, phenolic compounds, and vitamins.
Biological Activities and Clinical Research: Studies suggest antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective effects. Some evidence indicates hypoglycemic and antimicrobial activities.
Current Practical Uses: Culinary purposes, traditional medicine, ornamental purposes, and handicrafts (using the dried gourd).
Main Preparation Method: Decoction, infusion, fresh consumption.
Main Uses: Commonly used for urinary conditions, liver support, and inflammation. Also utilized for managing diabetes and as a general health tonic.
Properties/Actions Documented by Research: Diuretic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective.
Other Properties/Actions Documented by Traditional Use: Antimicrobial, hepatic tonic, cooling.
Cautions: Calabash may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Excessive consumption of mature fruits can cause toxicity due to the presence of cucurbitacins.
Traditional Preparation: Leaves and fruits are often boiled to prepare infusions or decoctions. Fruits can also be consumed raw or cooked in various culinary dishes.
Contraindications: Avoid consumption of overripe or bitter-tasting fruits due to potential toxicity.
Drug Interactions: No significant drug interactions reported, but caution advised when using concurrently with medications for diabetes or hypertension, as it may potentiate their effects.
Recommended dosage: 1 - 2ml taken 2x daily in a small glass of water or juice on an empty stomach for better absorption.