Benefits & Side Effects of Muskmelon (Kharbuja)
Did you know? Muskmelon is 90% water – making it the perfect summer fruit for hydration. Muskmelon, also commonly referred to as ‘Kharbuja’, the Hindi name of muskmelon, is a type of melon belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family.
In Ayurveda, it is called ‘Madhuphala’, a fruit known to cool the body and aid digestion. The fruit is high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Additionally, muskmelon seeds are also edible and are rich in protein, fibre, and omega-3.
Table of Contents
What is Muskmelon?
Muskmelon, the scientific name ‘Cucumis melo var’ is a sweet and refreshing fruit that is usually grown in a warm climate with plenty of exposure to sun. Muskmelon is a popular summer fruit globally known to be a powerhouse of nutrients. Muskmelon goes by various names across region, culture, and languages including, Kharmuj, Kharabuja, Chibuda, Kakadi, Kharbuja, Kharbuj, Sweet melon, Melon, Turbuch, Teti, Chibdu, Shakarateli, Tarbucha, Khurbuza, Sakkarteli, Kachra, Patkira, Phut, Tuti, Kakni, and more.
Muskmelon is a summer fruit that grows best in hot, sunny months known to have several benefits like supporting immunity function, aids in digestion, good for hair & skin, supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and more. Muskmelon sowing season in India is around late February to April and the harvest time is between April to June.
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What are the Health Benefits of Muskmelon?
Muskmelon – the refreshing superfruit is known for its cooling effect & reducing body heat. The fruit is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants making it an excellent choice for staying hydrated, supporting immunity, and promoting overall well-being. Several health benefits of consuming muskmelon include:
- Promotes Hydration: Muskmelon is 90% water, consuming which can help maintain fluid balance and prevent dehydration especially during summers.
- Boosts Immunity: The refreshing fruit is high in vitamin C and beta-carotene – vitamin A, both known to strengthen the immune system.
- Support Digestive Health: Muskmelon is widely consumed as it aids in digestion. The fruit is rich in dietary fibre which helps regulate bowel movements and soothes the digestive tract.
- Promotes Skin Health: Muskmelon is a WOW fruit for the skin. The fruit’s high level of antioxidants, vitamin A & C works wonders on promoting skin health by combating oxidative stress, reducing signs of ageing, and promoting skin elasticity and firmness.
- Aids in Weight Management: Muskmelon works wonders for people intending to lose weight, as the fruit is low in calories and high in water and fibre, consuming which promotes fullness without adding to the calories count.
- Promotes Eye Health: The fruit is packed with vitamin A and beta-carotene which helps maintain healthy vision and prevent eye diseases.
- Support Heart Health: Consuming muskmelon has multiple benefits for cardiovascular well-being. Muskmelon consists of adenosine (a compound with blood thinning property) which helps reduce the risk of heart issues and prevents the formation of blood clots and improves blood flow all contributing to promoting heart health.
- Reduces Inflammation: Components like cucurbitacin and vitamins A and C packed in muskmelon help fight inflammation in the body.
- Keeps the body hydrated
- Boosts immunity
- Improves skin health
- Aids digestion
- Supports heart health
- Helps in weight loss
- Enhances eye health
- Reduces inflammation
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What are the Nutritional Values of Muskmelon?
Muskmelon has numerous health benefits, thanks to its nutritional content. The fruit is surprisingly high in nutritional benefits despite being light and low in calories. Some of the nutritional content of muskmelon includes:
- Minerals: Magnesium, calcium, copper, zinc & iron
- Vitamins: Vitamin A, vitamin B complexes, & vitamin C
- Electrolytes: Potassium
- Dietary Fibres (Foods rich in Fibre)
- Carotenoids
Additionally, muskmelon being sweet it’s low in sugar and fat, making it a perfect nutrient dense fruit.
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Muskmelon Nutrition Chart
The table below showcases the nutritional composition of 100 gms of muskmelon:
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Energy | 34 kcal |
| Water | 90% |
| Protein | 0.85 gms |
| Vitamin C | 36.7 mg |
| Vitamin A | 3382 IU |
| Calcium | 9 mg |
| Iron | 0.2 mg |
| Magnesium | 12 mg |
| Potassium | 267 mg |
| Fibre | 0.9 g |
What are the Side Effects or Allergies due to Muskmelon?
Consuming muskmelon in moderation is generally considered safe. However, there are possible side effects caused by overeating, including:
- Consuming too much muskmelon can lead to bloating, overhydration, or frequent urination, especially during the night.
- Another possible condition of eating muskmelon is allergic reaction, though very rare it can trigger mild oral allergies like itching in the mouth and throat.
- Muskmelon is not diabetic-friendly, the fruit is high in natural sugar content, and consuming it excessively by a diabetic patient can raise blood sugar levels and also contribute to weight gain.
The Right Way to Eat Muskmelon
- The right time to consume muskmelon is preferably in the morning or midday. Additionally, avoid consuming the fruit late at night or consumption along with dairy products.
- Wash the fruit’s outer layer well before eating it to prevent contamination from the fruit’s surface.
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FAQs
Is muskmelon good for pregnancy?
Yes, muskmelon/kharbuja is a very healthy and safe fruit to eat during pregnancy.
Is muskmelon good for weight loss?
Yes, muskmelon helps with weight loss due to its low-calorie and high water content.
Can diabetic patients eat muskmelon?
Yes, diabetic patients can eat muskmelon in moderation.
Is muskmelon good for kidney patients?
Yes, consuming muskmelon is beneficial for patients with kidney issues given its high water content.