- Botanical Name & Family: Benincasa fistulosa, Cucurbitaceae (squash-like cucurbit).
- Plant Description: Prolific vine, typically grown as an annual. Small thorns. Fruit is approximately spherical (5-8 cm diameter), green, apple-sized, flattish round (50-60 grams). White flesh, soft ovate seeds. Mild flavor, similar to bottle gourd. Native to India.
- Cultivation Tips: Warm-weather crop, requires lengthy, hot weather. Prefers sandy loam soils rich in organic matter (pH 6.5-7.5). Optimal soil temp for germination 25-32 °C. Sow seeds Jan-Feb. Create long channels 1.5 m apart. Requires irrigation every 4-5 days for summer crop. Fertilize with FYM, NPK. Harvest when fruits are tender (70-80 days after planting).
- Ayurvedic Description: Tremendous therapeutic significance. Water-soluble, high in fiber and antioxidants. Cooling and neutralizing impact on stomach acids (hyperacidity, dyspepsia, ulcers). Traditional treatment for diabetes. Promotes weight loss, improves heart performance, detoxifies kidneys, enhances digestion, strengthens respiratory processes. Battles fevers, jaundice, heart ailments, alopecia, joint illnesses, boosts immunity, regulates thyroid, alleviates insomnia. Juice heals hair/scalp disorders. Generally safe, but always purchase fresh.
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 |
| Tinde (Indian Round Gourd) | Benincasa fistulosa | 21 / 25 | – / 4 | – / 2 | – / 0 | – / 0 | C (18 mg), A, E | Ca, Fe, Mn, P, Zn, K, Na |