Pumpkin
कूष्माण्डी
Kushmandi/Kumhda (Pumpkin) is a large trailing vine vegetable. The fruits are large, round or oblong, orange to yellow. The flesh is thick, sweet, and fibrous. It is heavy, nourishing, and cooling. It is widely used as a vegetable. The seeds are also edible and nutritious. Chemical analysis shows Protein 25, Carotene 0.4, Fat 0.1, Carbohydrate 4-12%. Vitamins A and C are present. It is a good source of nutrition. Verses: 36.
What is Pumpkin (Kumda Phal / कुम्भाण्ड)?
Kushmandi/Kumhda (Pumpkin) is a large trailing vine vegetable. The fruits are large, round or oblong, orange to yellow. The flesh is thick, sweet, and fibrous. It is heavy, nourishing, and cooling. It is widely used as a vegetable. The seeds are also edible and nutritious. Chemical analysis shows Protein 25, Carotene 0.4, Fat 0.1, Carbohydrate 4-12%. Vitamins A and C are present. It is a good source of nutrition. Verses: 36.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 9
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Balya (strengthening)
- Brimhana (nourishing)
- Vatahara (pacifies Vata)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 9
References in Sushruta Samhita
It is short at its root and hangs down from the neck in the shape of a pumpkin (Alavu), gradually gaining its full rotundity at the top.
— Sushruta Samhita, Nidana Sthana, Chapter 11: Granthi, Apachi, Arvuda and Galaganda Nidanam - Glands, Scrofula, Tumours and Goitre
It is short at its root and hangs down from the neck in the shape of a pumpkin (Alavu), gradually gaining its full rotundity at the top.
— Sushruta Samhita, Granthi, Apachi, Arvuda and Galaganda Nidanam - Glands, Scrofula, Tumours and Goitre
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Nidana Sthana, Chapter 11: Granthi, Apachi, Arvuda and Galaganda Nidanam - Glands, Scrofula, Tumours and Goitre; Granthi, Apachi, Arvuda and Galaganda Nidanam - Glands, Scrofula, Tumours and Goitre
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.