- Botanical Name & Family: Luffa acutangula, Cucurbitaceae (cucumber family) .
- Plant Description: Tropical and subtropical vine. Fibrous when fully ripened (source of loofah sponge). Cultivated and eaten as a vegetable when young/immature. Not frost-hardy, requires 150-200 warm days to mature.
- Cultivation Tips: Prefers warm, humid climate (25-30 °C). Thrives in sandy loam soils rich in organic matter (pH 6.0-7.0). Planted in summer/monsoon. Sow seeds 3.8-5 cm deep. Requires regular watering, especially during flowering/fruiting. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks. Harvest when 15-20 cm long and tender. Delayed harvesting leads to tough fibers.
- Ayurvedic Description: Known as Koshataki. Bitter variety for medicinal use, non-bitter for vegetable. Medicinal properties: Tikta (Bitter), Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry), Tikshna (Pungent), Ushna (Hot). Pacifies Kapha and Pitta. Cleanses large/small intestines. Indicated for cough, cold, chronic poisoning, anemia, inflammation, skin diseases, jaundice. Sweet variety balances all three Doshas, ideal after fever. Caution with bitter variety (emetic/purgative effects).
Nutritional profile of seasonal vegetable (per 100g raw edible portion):
| Vegetable | Botanical Name | Calories (kcal) | Carbohydrates (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Fiber (g) | Key Vitamins | Key Minerals |
| Ramatori (Ridge Gourd) | Luffa acutangula | 59 | 7.2 | 1.4 | – | 2.8 | A, C | – |