Published Paper Details:

Benincasa hispida, commonly known as Ash gourd, has been extensively utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for its diverse therapeutic applications. The plant's richness of bioactive compounds, including as flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, and phenols, enhances its medicinal potential. B. hispida is a potential option for the development of functional foods and pharmaceutical formulations due to the potent antiviral, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities of these bioactive components. The formulation and stability of beverages derived from ash gourds have also been the subject of recent research, particularly when combined with jamun (Syzygium cumini), which is high in anthocyanins, flavonoids, and polyphenols. Over time, the bioactive compounds in these formulations have shown remarkable stability and pharmacological performance, indicating their potential as functional food additives with beneficial health effects. It was also demonstrated that the bioaccessibility of these fractions was enhanced by the addition of sugar, suggesting potential avenues for enhancing functional food compositions. Despite the promising pharmacological characteristics, additional clinical studies are required to validate the therapeutic applications of B. hispida, enhance dosage formulations, and establish consistent protocols for its administration in therapeutic settings. Closing the existing knowledge gap and encouraging more research into the therapeutic potential of ash gourd as a medicinal plant and functional food are the goals of this review.