Cucumber

(Cucumis Savitus)

Cucumber is believed to be a plant native to India or even Africa. De Candole believed in 1882 that the cucumber was cultivated in the Indians from 3,000 BC. In eastern Iran there are cucumbers from 3,000 BC, in China it is grown from 2,000 BC. In Greece it is said to have existed since ancient times. Theophrastus by the name “Sikyos” or “Sikyus” describes three varieties. In the 14th century it was cultivated in Great Britain. Portuguese explorers transported the cucumber to West Africa. Columbus transported it to America.

It is a reptile plant with thin shoots reaching 3-4 meters in length. The root system consists of a central root from which many laterals develop. The shoots have an angular cross-section and have propellers that allow the plant to climb. The leaves are large, angular and fluffy. The lateral shoots grow from the armpits of the leaves. The flowers are divided into males and females. The male flowers are larger in size and appear mainly towards the base of the central stem as opposed to the smaller size females and later appear in the central stem and mainly the lateral shoots. The female flowers bear on their base a rudimentary fruit which is visible before fertilization. Some cucumber varieties have only female flowers and fruit production is virgin. The cucumber fruit is cylindrical, small or large, smooth or with small thorns, round or angular, in different shades of green depending on the variety.

The cucumber fruit contains Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6, Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium and Zinc. Still cucumber is known as the best natural diuretic and it is very beneficial for those who have problems with their kidneys and bladder. It has a high potassium content which makes it very useful for high and low blood pressure conditions. At the same time, it contains silicon and sulfur that promote the growth of your hair. Next, cucumber juice helps to cure diseases of the teeth and gums
Scientific studies have shown that cucumber fights against cellulite and wrinkles, relieves headaches, fights mouth odor, gives energy, treats your face, helps with sunburn, blood pressure and herbal remedies.