The cucumber is a member of the gourd family that originates from the Indian subcontinent. It is now grown on most continents and is a common ingredient. Although it is often perceived as a vegetable, it is technically a fruit. Cucumbers are often eaten fresh in their natural form, but they can also be pickled.

Cancer prevention

Cucumbers contain pinoresinol, lariciresinol and secoisolariciresinol, which are lignans that are thought to reduce the risk of various types of cancer.

The antioxidant vitamins, vitamin A and vitamin C, are also found in cucumbers. Antioxidants can also help to prevent cancer, as they fight the free radicals that can cause damage to cells.

Blood pressure regulation

There are various nutrients in cucumber that can help to control blood pressure. Cucumbers are a very good source of potassium, which is beneficial for regulating blood pressure. Potassium is able to reduce high blood pressure, as it can counteract the effects of sodium.

Magnesium, which is also found in cucumber, can help to promote normal blood pressure.

Digestive health

Consumption of cucumber can be beneficial for digestive health. Cucumbers have a high water and fibre content, so consuming them can help to remove toxins from the digestive system.

Fresh cucumber juice may be recommended as a remedy for certain digestive disorders, such as constipation and heart burn.

Hydration

Cucumber has a 96 percent water content, so it is very good for hydration. The water in cucumber is more nutritious than regular water, and it can help to flush out the toxins and regulate body temperature.

Skin health

Due to the high water content, cucumber can be beneficial for the skin. Moisture is important for healthy skin, so the hydrating properties of cucumber can help to maintain a glowing complexion.

Cucumber also contains ascorbic acid and caffeic acid, which can reduce water retention and decrease under eye puffiness.

Cucumber can also be used topically to maintain healthy skin. Slices of cucumber can be used to soothe tired eyes and cucumber extracts can help to treat sunburn. Facemasks made from cucumber can help to refresh the skin and keep it soft.

Joint health

Cucumber contains silica, which can strengthen connective tissues and promote joint health. It is also a source of vitamin K, which may play a role in bone strength by promoting bone mass building activity. It is thought that the vitamin K in cucumber may help to prevent osteoporosis.

It is possible that cucumber may provide relief from the pain caused by gout and arthritis, as it can lower uric acid levels.

Ways to use cucumber

Cucumbers are commonly used in salads. They require very little preparation, as they can simply be washed and sliced. They can also be mixed with other ingredients, such as avocado or mint, to make a chilled soup.

There are also topical uses for cucumber, as it can be used to make facemasks, skin toners and hair conditioner.

Cucumbers can also be pickled, but a lot of the nutrients are lost. Pickled cucumbers are also high in sodium, so the best way to obtain the benefits from cucumbers is to eat them fresh.