In Nigeria, melon, also known as egusi, is primarily farmed for human use. They are typically ground and used to make a variety of foods, including egusi soup and stew.
The seeds are sun-dried and either crushed plain or roasted/fried before being used to make egusi soup.
Then, fried cake can be made using the chaff leftover after the egusi seeds’ oil has been extracted. The seeds can also be fermented and used to create ogiri, a regional spice. Egusi seeds can be used to make margarine, butter, and animal feed because of their high oil content.
Here are some advantages of eating melon seed on a regular basis.
1. Anti-inflammatory properties
Melon has anti-inflammatory characteristics that can be used to treat wounds and infections.
According to a study, the methanol extract of egusi dramatically reduced the anti-inflammatory effects of serotonin, carrageenan, and prostaglandin.
2. Help fights cancer
Egusi is a potent herbal cancer treatment that works well for treating breast cancer.
Cucurbitacin glycosides have pleiotropic effects on cells, causing both apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, according to research by Grossman et al. from 2007. Consequently, cucurbitacin glycosides have anti-cancer properties against breast cancer cells.
3. Contains anti-arthritic properties
Kachhawah et al. (2016) looked into the impact of melon fruit hydroalcoholic extract on anti-arthritic activities. The objective of the study was to create a standardization technique for the anti-arthritic properties of the extract that comprises quercetin and cucurbitacin glycoside.
The research demonstrated the hydroalcoholic melon fruit extract’s potent anti-arthritic capabilities. This is explained by its abundance in phytochemicals like flavonoids. Therefore, it can be applied to the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, an inflammatory condition characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints, stiffness, edema, discomfort, and redness in the joints.
4. Dermatological purposes
Niacin and vitamin B2 (riboflavin), which are found in this plant, support good skin maintenance. Local soap and pomade for skin care can be prepared from oil collected from egusi seeds.
5. Aids digestion and boosts appetite
Egusi melon is beneficial for aiding food digestion since it contains dietary fiber and vitamin B1 (Thiamine). It stimulates hunger due to the presence of vitamin B1.
