Summer in Chennai is never complete without water melons, the fruit native to South Africa but so widely relished here that it is often forgotten as an African breed , more interestingly –thought of as belonging to India. It is one of those few rare fruits which while naming the botanist were considerate to the common man’s impoverished knowledge of Greek and Latin; as can be seen in the obvious sense its name makes in pointing to its observable properties. Its scientific name, however, is Citrullis lanatus. No reservations there! If one were to ask me, ‘is it possible to bite water that is not ice?’ My answer would be an assertive yes and, will prove through demonstration by biting my slice of water melon. With about 92% of it being only water, I wouldn’t think twice before answering.
Water melons are not just the pink crunchy ones we mostly come about. They come in many colours including yellow and orange which are seedless varieties unlike the brown seeded local pinks.
Even as most consume it for its rich water content and welcoming taste, water melons are also an excellent source of numerous vitamins like B,B1,B6,A,C which are the essential crusaders of the body. Water melons have also ample amount of Magnesium and Potassium. Researchers Jian L, Lee AH, and co. found evidence of these bloated juicy bag (water melon) being effective in preventing prostate cancer when taken with green tea; the results of which were published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Besides it has been scientifically proved, the ability of the fruit in fighting against low blood pressure, erectile dysfunction and enhances insulin sensitivity.
This fruit that originated in Africa has good enough history to make a feature film. The earliest known cultivations were in Egypt where, the hieroglyphics stand testimony to its employment. From here it was shipped to China around the10th century A.D, from where the fruit began its journey around the globe.
Summers are not completely evil after all. Of all the good things that can be done during the time, relishing a melon is certainly one.