Sponge gourd, a summer vegetable native to native to South and Southeast Asia, is considered in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to be useful in treating and preventing a wide range of ailments.
The vegetable, also called luffa, may lower blood pressure, reduce blood lipids, and alleviate constipation. It may also help to reduce swelling and prevent gout, and has potential antiviral and cancer-preventive properties. From a nutritional standpoint, it’s a good source of plant protein and rich in vitamin C and minerals such as magnesium, calcium, iron, and zinc.
