Sadhguru's Ashgourd-Pomegranate Salad: A Summer Superfood for Energy and Health
As temperatures soar, maintaining optimal health becomes a priority. Spiritual leader and wellness advocate Sadhguru often emphasizes the profound benefits of natural foods. In a recent blog post, he highlighted the transformative power of incorporating ash gourd, also known as winter melon, into one's diet. This humble vegetable, when paired with nutrient-rich pomegranate, creates a salad that not only cools the body but also revitalizes energy levels. Let's explore why this unique combination is a must-try for the summer season.
How to Prepare Sadhguru's Ashgourd-Pomegranate Salad
This refreshing salad is simple to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it an accessible addition to any meal plan.
- Ingredients: 1 slice of ashgourd, 1 small pomegranate, 2 tablespoons of curd, salt to taste, and pepper powder to taste.
- Method: Begin by removing the seeds and white fleshy parts from the ashgourd slice. Cut it into pieces, grate thoroughly, and squeeze out excess water. Extract the seeds from the pomegranate. In a mixing bowl, combine the grated ash gourd, pomegranate seeds, salt, and pepper. Mix well and serve chilled to experience its cooling effects during hot summer days.
Nutritional Profile of Ash Gourd
According to Sadhguru, ash gourd is a nutritional powerhouse. It is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and B-complex vitamins such as niacin, thiamine, and riboflavin. The vegetable also provides significant amounts of iron, potassium, zinc, calcium, and magnesium. Additionally, it offers a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and dietary fiber.
Per 100 grams, ash gourd contains approximately 3.9 grams of fat, 0.5 grams of saturated fat, 12.5 grams of total carbohydrates, 0.6 grams of dietary fiber, 2 grams of protein, 33 milligrams of sodium, and 259 milligrams of potassium. Sadhguru describes ash gourd as "the most positive pranic vegetable in existence," suggesting it can provide an extra drive during energy-sapping summer months.
Cooling Effect and Hydration
Ash gourd is renowned for its cooling properties, which help regulate body temperature in hot weather. Sadhguru advises that individuals prone to colds, asthma, or sinusitis should exercise caution, as the vegetable can create excessive sheeta or coolness in the system. For such people, he recommends mixing it with honey or pepper to neutralize the cooling effect.
Scientifically, ash gourd's high water content—approximately 96%—makes it an excellent hydrator, preventing dehydration and promoting overall cooling during summer.
Boosts Energy Levels
Consuming ash gourd can lead to a significant increase in energy while simultaneously calming the nerves. The International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences notes that ash gourd contains vitamin B3, which plays a crucial role in energy metabolism by aiding in the conversion of food into usable energy. This makes it particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with anemia or physical weakness, as it supports elevated energy levels and reduces fatigue.
Enhances Mental Clarity
Sadhguru advocates for the daily consumption of ash gourd to sharpen intellectual capabilities. He specifically suggests that children drink ash gourd juice regularly. Research indicates that the folate content in ash gourd supports brain development and helps reduce stress by promoting mental relaxation.
Health Benefits of Pomegranate
A study published by the National Library of Medicine, titled "Potent Health Effects of Pomegranate," highlights the fruit's ability to prevent or treat various disease risk factors. These include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, oxidative stress, hyperglycemia, and inflammatory activities.
Pomegranates are rich in polyphenols, which exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticarcinogenic properties. The fruit extract has been shown to inhibit cell growth and induce apoptosis, contributing to its cancer-fighting potential. Additionally, pomegranate seeds are an excellent source of vitamin C, which brightens the skin, boosts collagen production, and enhances radiance.
The polyphenols and flavonoids in pomegranate help reduce the oxidation of LDL (bad cholesterol). Experts suggest that daily intake may lower systolic blood pressure, especially in individuals with hypertension, by relaxing blood vessel walls and reducing cardiac stress.
Incorporating Sadhguru's Ashgourd-Pomegranate Salad into your summer meals offers a holistic approach to wellness. This dish combines cooling hydration, energy enhancement, and mental sharpness, making it an ideal choice for navigating the heat while promoting overall health.
