Herb's Introduction
Momordica cochinchinensis, commonly known as Gac, Chinese bitter-cucumber, or spiny bitter-cucumber, is a remarkable perennial climber belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family, which also includes squashes, cucumbers, and melons. Native to India, Southeast Asia, and parts of China, this plant is not only appreciated for its ornamental value but is also highly revered for its medicinal properties and nutritional benefits. The plant's most notable feature is its vibrant red, spiny fruit, which has been a staple in traditional medicine and cuisine for centuries. The plant is dioecious, meaning it has separate male and female plants, and its robust nature allows it to thrive in various climates. The fruit's striking appearance and unique properties have earned it the nickname "fruit from heaven" or "longevity fruit" in some cultures, particularly in Vietnam where it is a symbol of vitality and health.
Name in Different Countries
The name of Momordica cochinchinensis varies significantly across different regions, reflecting its widespread use and cultural importance. In Vietnam, it is most commonly known as Gac. In China, it is called Mù Biē Guǒ (木鱉果), which translates to "wooden turtle fruit" due to the appearance of its seeds. In India, it has multiple names depending on the region. The Hindi name is Kakrol or Kantola, while in Bengali, it is called Golkakra. Other names include Bhat kerala in Assamese, Karot in Manipuri, and Gulkakra in Marathi. In Japan, it is known as Namban karasuuri or Makubet sushi. In Thailand, it is called Fak khao (ฟักข้าว). This rich tapestry of names underscores the plant's deep integration into various local cultures and traditions.
Terminology
Momordica cochinchinensis (Lour.) Spreng. is the accepted botanical name for this species. The species name cochinchinensis refers to Cochinchina, a historical region in Southern Vietnam, indicating its origin. The name Momordica comes from the Latin word 'mordeo,' meaning "to bite," a reference to the jagged edges of the leaves of some plants in the genus, which appear as if they have been bitten. The plant belongs to the family Cucurbitaceae, commonly known as the gourd family. Synonyms like Momordica macrophylla and Muricia cochinchinensis have also been used in the past. The common names, such as Chinese bitter-cucumber and spiny bitter-cucumber, refer to the plant's spiny fruit and its relation to the cucumber family.
Availability
Momordica cochinchinensis is primarily cultivated and found in its native regions of South and Southeast Asia, including India, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and the Philippines. The fruit is typically available during its peak season, which generally falls from late summer to early winter. While fresh Gac fruit is a common sight in local markets in these countries, it can be less common in Western markets. However, due to its rising popularity as a superfood, Gac is now available internationally in various processed forms, such as Gac oil, Gac powder, Gac juice, and capsules. These products make it easier for people worldwide to access its nutritional benefits.
External Look
Momordica cochinchinensis is a stout, perennial climbing vine. The stems are pilose (hairy) and rugose (wrinkled). The leaves are simple, alternate, and cordate (heart-shaped), with a leathery texture and a wavy margin. They are often mottled with microscopic, lobed bodies. The plant produces distinctive, spring-shaped tendrils that help it climb. The flowers are solitary and axillary, with a white to yellowish hue. The most striking part of the plant is its fruit. It is a globose to ovoid berry, measuring about 4–10 cm in diameter, and is covered with numerous soft spines, which give it its "spiny" common name. As the fruit ripens, its color changes from green to a vibrant scarlet red. When cut open, the fruit reveals a bright red aril (the fleshy layer surrounding the seeds) and a yellowish-orange pulp. The seeds themselves are compressed and ovoid, with intricate markings that resemble a tortoise, which is where the Chinese name "wooden turtle fruit" comes from.
Healing Properties
Momordica cochinchinensis is a powerhouse of healing properties, largely attributed to its rich content of beneficial compounds. The fruit's vibrant red color is due to high concentrations of carotenoids, particularly lycopene and beta-carotene, which are potent antioxidants. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory: The high levels of carotenoids and other phytochemicals provide strong antioxidant activity, which helps neutralize free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and combat inflammation. This property is crucial in preventing chronic diseases. The seeds are also used for inflammatory swelling and liver and spleen disorders. Vision Health: The fruit's pulp and oil are exceptionally rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. This makes Gac highly beneficial for treating eye conditions like xerophthalmia (dry eyes) and nyctalopia (night blindness). Skin and Wound Healing: The oil is used externally for wounds, burns, and sores. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties aid in the healing process. The leaves are also applied to swollen legs and ulcers. Digestive Health: The plant has both laxative and anti-diarrheal properties, making it useful for regulating the digestive system. The seeds are traditionally used to treat diarrhea and constipation. Immune Support: The various vitamins and antioxidants in Gac contribute to a stronger immune system, helping the body fight off infections. Anticancer Potential: Studies have shown that the compounds in Gac, especially lycopene, may have a role in cancer prevention and treatment, particularly for breast cancer and liver diseases. In traditional Chinese medicine, the seeds are used to treat breast cancer.
Advantages
The advantages of Momordica cochinchinensis stem from its unique nutritional profile and therapeutic effects. Nutrient Density: Gac is considered a "superfruit" due to its extraordinarily high concentration of nutrients. It contains significantly more lycopene than tomatoes and more beta-carotene than carrots. Bioavailability: The carotenoids in Gac are highly bioavailable, meaning the body can easily absorb and utilize them. This is especially true for the Gac oil, as carotenoids are fat-soluble. Versatile Use: The plant is used in multiple ways, from a vegetable in its unripe form to a fruit in its ripe form. Its leaves, roots, seeds, and fruits all have medicinal applications. Traditional Wisdom and Modern Science: The traditional uses of Gac in various cultures for promoting longevity, vitality, and treating specific ailments are now being supported by modern scientific research, which validates its health benefits. No Known Major Side Effects: When consumed in food amounts, Gac is generally considered safe, with no reported major side effects.
Uses
Momordica cochinchinensis is used in both culinary and medicinal contexts. Culinary Uses: In Vietnam, the fruit's aril is used to color and enrich "xôi gấc," a ceremonial red sticky rice dish, symbolizing good fortune and happiness. The young, unripe fruit is cooked as a vegetable, similar to bitter gourd. The seeds can also be eaten. Traditional Medicine: Seeds: Used to treat inflammatory conditions, liver and spleen disorders, hemorrhoids, and wounds. In China, they are used for liver diseases, hemorrhoids, and malaria. Fruit: The oil extracted from the aril is used for treating children with rickets, xerophthalmia, and general weakness. It is also beneficial for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Leaves: Applied externally to treat lumbago, ulcerations, and swollen legs. Roots: In the Philippines, the roots are used to make a type of soap. Cosmetics and Pharmaceuticals: Gac oil and extracts are increasingly being used in the cosmetics industry for their antioxidant properties to promote skin health and in the pharmaceutical industry for nutritional supplements and functional foods.
Using Way
The method of using Momordica cochinchinensis depends on the part of the plant and the desired effect. Gac Fruit: The ripe aril is typically mixed with cooked sticky rice to make "xôi gấc." It can also be blended into smoothies, juices, or used in sauces. The unripe fruit is prepared by boiling or stir-frying it. Gac Oil: Gac oil is a concentrated form and can be taken as a dietary supplement in capsules or added to food. It is also applied externally on the skin for burns, wounds, and acne. Gac Powder: The dried and powdered fruit aril can be mixed into drinks, shakes, or yogurt to add a nutritional boost. External Application: For skin conditions, leaves or crushed seeds can be made into a poultice and applied directly to the affected area.
Conclusion
Momordica cochinchinensis is a plant of immense value, bridging the gap between traditional medicine and modern nutritional science. Its striking appearance, coupled with its rich nutritional and therapeutic profile, makes it a true "superfruit." From its use in traditional Vietnamese cuisine to its application in treating various ailments across Asia, Gac has a long and storied history. The high concentration of potent antioxidants like lycopene and beta-carotene makes it a powerful ally against oxidative stress and related diseases, particularly those affecting vision and skin. As scientific research continues to validate the traditional wisdom surrounding this plant, its popularity and use are likely to grow, making it more accessible to a global audience. Momordica cochinchinensis stands as a testament to nature's healing potential, offering a unique and effective way to promote health, vitality, and longevity.
