Melon/Egusi Seeds

Egusi seed is botanically known as Citrullus colocynthis (Curcurbita citrullus L. or Citrullus lanatus Thumb.) and belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. It is known by various names such as bitter cucumber, pumpkin seeds, egusi melon, vine of Sodom plant, wild gourd, bitter apple, colocynth or desert gourd.

Egusi is mostly grown for its shelled seeds that are usually ground and used for preparing assorted dishes such as egusi soup, egusi stew and salad. Some common Nigerian egusi dishes include; pounded yam and egusi soup, egusi and okro soup, Iyan and egusi, fufu and egusi soup, eba and egusi soup, egusi sauce and rice etc.

Before preparing the egusi soup or egusi sauce, the sun-dried seeds are either ground plain or roasted/fried before being ground. Chaffs obtained during the oil extraction of egusi seeds can be used for making fried cake snack popularly known as robo cake. The seeds can be fermented and used for making a local spice known as ogiri. Due to its high oil content, egusi seeds can be used for making margarine, butter and animal feed.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF EGUSI SEED (MELON SEEDS)

· Provides essential amino acids: Amino acids, which are not readily available in the body like arginine and lysine, have to be obtained from other sources. Egusi seeds are a great source of these amino acids. Arginine helps in regulating metabolism and improves the cardiovascular system. Lysine helps in the formation of collagen and connective tissues in the body.

· Power packed with protein: Anyone, who is looking for a food source high in protein, must have these seeds in his or her diet, especially, people looking to build pure muscle like professional body builders. Proteins are essential for the maintenance of muscles, and Egusi contains around 100 grams of seeds that contain about 30 grams of protein. It is also low in calories. Hence, it is very good for those who are looking to shed some fat. Protein deficiency diseases like marasmus and kwashiorkor can be cured by proper intake of these seeds.

· Natural Multi-vitamin B supplement : These seeds are an exnt source of Vitamin B complex. They contain thiamine, folate, niacin, riboflavin, pyridoxine and pantothenic acid. These vitamins are essential for having good blood flow throughout the body, which ultimately makes keeps the cardiovascular system healthy. They also help in strengthening the immune system. Daily intake of these seeds is the equivalent to taking vitamin supplements.

· Anti-aging: Egusi helps in fighting against the signs of aging like wrinkles, dark spots and dark circles. It contains anti-oxidants and Niacin, which makes skin healthy and young and helps prevents aging. Consuming egusi seeds or applying egusi seed oil will help keep your skin healthy and glowing for a long time.