In the scorching summer days, watermelon becomes an ideal refreshment for quenching thirst. Many people discard the leaves of watermelon while enjoying the fruit, not knowing that watermelon leaves are actually rich in nutritional value and have a variety of uses. This article will introduce the characteristics, nutritional value, and how to utilize watermelon leaves in detail.
The Nutritional Value of Watermelon LeavesWatermelon leaves are rich in various nutrients, such as protein, dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron, potassium, etc. According to the data from the "Chinese Food Composition Table", 100 grams of watermelon leaves contain about 3.2 grams of protein, which is one of the quality protein sources needed by the human body. The vitamin C content in watermelon leaves is also high, which helps to enhance immunity and prevent colds.
Uses of Watermelon Leaves1. Edible
Watermelon leaves can be used for stir-frying, making soup, or cold dishes. When stir-frying watermelon leaves, you can add garlic and chili as seasonings for a crisp and delicious taste. Watermelon leaves can also be used to make watermelon leaf cakes, which have a unique taste and are rich in nutrients.
2. Medicinal
Watermelon leaves have the effects of clearing heat, detoxifying, diuretic, and reducing swelling. In traditional Chinese medicine, watermelon leaves can be used to treat symptoms such as colds, fever, and sore throat. Modern research shows that the active ingredients in watermelon leaves have antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects.
3. Beauty and Skin Care
The vitamin C and antioxidants in watermelon leaves help delay skin aging and maintain skin elasticity. Crushing watermelon leaves and applying them to the face can achieve whitening, moisturizing, and pore收缩 effects.
4. Seedling Raising
Watermelon leaves can be used as seedling materials for cultivating vegetables, flowers, and other plants. Soaking watermelon leaves in water to make leaf water can be used to water plants and promote their growth.
How to Select and Preserve Watermelon Leaves1. Selection
When selecting watermelon leaves, choose leaves that are fresh green, free from diseases and pests, and not rotten. Leaves that are too yellowish-green or black may have spoiled and are not suitable for consumption.
2. Preservation
Watermelon leaves are not suitable for long-term storage and are best used fresh. If they need to be preserved, wash the leaves, dry them, wrap them in plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator's冷藏室, where they can be kept for up to 3 days.
Although watermelon leaves are often overlooked, they actually have rich nutritional value and a variety of uses. Understanding the characteristics of watermelon leaves and learning to utilize them can not only enrich our diet but also bring more convenience to our lives. Let's explore the secrets of watermelon leaves and make life better.