Evidence supporting the use of: Wax Gourd
For the body system: Bladder
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Wax Gourd (Benincasa hispida), also known as winter melon or ash gourd, is used in various traditional medical systems, particularly in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), to support urinary and bladder health. In TCM, wax gourd is considered to have "cooling" properties and is believed to promote diuresis (increased urine production), thus helping to clear heat and expel dampness from the bladder. Similarly, Ayurveda often recommends wax gourd juice or extracts as a remedy for urinary tract irritation and to support overall bladder function, attributing its benefits to its high water content and mild diuretic effects. However, scientific validation for these uses is limited. Some preliminary studies have investigated the diuretic effects of wax gourd in animal models, with results suggesting a mild increase in urine output. There is also limited in vitro evidence of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could theoretically benefit urinary tract health. Despite these findings, clinical trials in humans are lacking, and no high-quality evidence exists to definitively support its use for bladder health. Therefore, the use of wax gourd for bladder support is primarily justified by traditional practices, with only modest scientific support.
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Other body systems supported by Wax Gourd
BladderBlood
Digestive System
Gastrointestinal Tract
Heart
Immune System
Intestinal System
Kidneys
Large Intestines (Colon)
Liver
Lungs
Spleen
Stomach
Urinary System