Comprehensive review on Lagenaria siceraria: Medicinal potential and nutritional significance

Lagenaria siceraria (bottle gourd) is a versatile plant from the Cucurbitaceae family, cultivated worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions. It is valued for its nutritional, medicinal, and traditional uses. The plant is an annual herbaceous vine with monoecious flowers, high sex ratios, and significant adaptability to diverse climates. L. siceraria used as a food source, a remedy in traditional medicine, and a material for utilitarian and cultural artifacts. Nutritionally, Lagenaria siceraria is richin amino acids, minerals, sterols, polyphenols, and vitamins, offering antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antidiabetic properties. Medicinally, it exhibits cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, anthelmintic, and anticancer activities, with significant potential in treating cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, inflammation, and liver disorders. Its bioactive compounds, including sterols, flavonoids, and phenolics, contribute to these benefits. plant's juice, seeds, and fruit extracts have been shown to lower cholesterol, protect the heart and liver, regulate glucose levels, and scavenge free radicals. Traditional applications also include treating skin disorders, epilepsy, headaches, and digestive issues. Its therapeutic effects have been validated by modern research, suggesting its potential as a natural source of nutraceutical and antioxidants. In conclusion, L. siceraria represents a promising resource in nutrition, traditional medicine, and modern therapeutics due to its various bioactive properties and diverse cultural significance. This study is an attempt to compile an upto date review on Lagenaria siceraria with its traditional and medicinal and phytochemistry and pharmacology profile.