The pumpkin family abounds in many unknown species. One of them is the cyclanter Cyclanthera pedata L., also called wild cucumber, achocha or caigua. Like most cucurbits, it is a one-year climber growing under favorable conditions up to 2-3 m (it can run or climb on supports).The edible part is fruit at various stages of maturity, but shoots and young leaves are also used and seeds.
The shape and taste of the fruit resemble both cucumber and paprika. Young fruits have a taste more similar to cucumbers, while older fruits, especially pickled ones, taste more like peppers.Cyclanter fruits can grow up to about 20 cm.They are usually light green in color, but they can also be dark green or almost white, their skin is covered with delicate hairs.For fresh consumption, pick small, 3-5 cm fruit, and for processing and cooking depending on your preferences.
Cyclanter cultivation and care
Cyclanter can be successfully grown in our climatic conditions, and its requirements are similar to those of a cucumber. Young plants prefer partial shade, too much sun exposure can burn delicate leaves.Like cucumbers, cyclanter is sensitive to frost, so it should be planted in mid-May or sown directly into the ground in early May.
Creates a fairly large mass of leaves in which it hides its fruit. Also for this reason, it can be cultivated, for example, by a pergola or other structures, because in the summer it will provide a natural cover. However, it is better served by more delicate structures than solid, massive supports.
The seed-filled fruit becomes empty as it matures, so it is mainly used for stewing or baking with filling (meat, vegetables, cheese or fish). Some people believe that the older fruit, when pickled, tastes like pepperoni. Others, on the other hand, prefer to marinate the cyclanter in pieces, after removing the seeds - then it tastes like sweet pepper.
Healing power of cyclanter fruits
Apart from the possibility of culinary use and decorative qualities, the cyclanter has one more important advantage - it is characterized by a number of healing properties.Currently, you can buy ready-made preparations based on it - these are usually powdered fruit or seeds.Older fruits contain more biologically active substances: galacturonic acid, dihydroxytryptamine, resins, vitamins, mainly B and C, lipoproteins and steroid substances: ß-sitosterol and its 3-ß-D-glucoside.
They also contain mineral s alts (especially phosphorus), pectins and dietary fiber. Cyclanter is used in the treatment of diseases caused by lipid metabolism disorders, as it lowers the level of bad LDL cholesterol. It is beneficial in the prevention of vascular diseases, e.g. atherosclerosis leading to coronary heart disease.
Supports the treatment of hypertension and diabetes.Powdered fruit sold in capsules are used to treat obesity or reduce cellulite, as they regulate the body's carbohydrate-lipid balance.
Ground seeds, used in the form of infusion, reduce blood pressure, and eaten on an empty stomach eliminate parasites from the digestive system.Cyclanter also has an analgesic effect, it is also used in gastrointestinal diseases.
However, unripe fruits are also valuable - research has shown the presence of luteolin, stigmasterol and diosgenin (this is a saponin used for the semi-synthesis of sex hormones, anti-inflammatory agents and anabolic substances)
