A Comprehensive Literature Review On Kushmanda (Benincasa Hispida Thunip) As Medhya (IQ Booster)

ABSTRACT

To review literature on B. hispida as Medhya (IQ booster). The Ayurvedic books and Journal article from internet are denoted. All information was analysed to see Kushmanda as Medhya (IQ booster). In order to treat psychological and psychosomatic diseases, a family of medications known as Medhya (IQ booster) has been described by Ayurveda. In essence, Medhya medicines support mental wellness by fostering intellectual capacity. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Yastimadhu (G.glabra), Shankapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica), Vacha (Acorus calamus), Jyothishmati (Celastrus panniculata), Kushmanda (Benincasa hispida thunip), Aindri (Bacopa monniera), and Jatamamsi (Nardostachys jatamamsi) are among the Medhya drugs that are listed. When compared to other Medhya medications, Kushmanda (Benincasa hispida thunip) is one of the IQ boosters that has received the least amount of research. By taking into account relevant pharmacological features, chemical ingredients, therapeutic effects, preclinical investigations, and traditional sources, this review article seeks to investigate the Medhya (IQ booster) action of Kushmanda.

INTRODUCTION

In the Samhita era, ancient Ayurvedic Acharyas emphasized enhancing Medha (intellect), describing exceptionally intelligent individuals as Param Medhavi. To achieve this, Gurus administered medicinal preparations. Modern research parallels this approach by exploring “IQ boosters”—substances believed to enhance cognitive capacity. In Ayurveda, such substances are known as Medhya Rasayanas, a subset of Rasayana drugs. Notable among these are Yastimadhu (G.glabra), Shankapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica), Vacha (Acorus calamus), Jyothishmati (Celastrus panniculata), Aindri (Bacopa monniera), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) Jatamamsi (Nardostachys jatamamsi), and particularly Kushmanda (Benincasa hispida thunip).[1] Despite its prominence in classical texts, Kushmanda remains relatively under-researched. Known as wax gourd, winter melon, or ash gourd, Kushmanda thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and is widely consumed in Indian and Southeast Asian diets.[2] It holds cultural and ritual significance—used during Durga Puja, housewarming rituals, and for warding off evil (Dhristi). Classical scriptures such as the Taittiriya Upanishad and Vishnu Dharmasutra reference it. In Brihatrayi, it’s categorized under Phala Varga (fruit), while Bhavamishra lists it as Shakavarga (vegetable) and recognizes it as Medhya.[3] Nutritionally, it contains proteins, carotenes, vitamins, triterpenoids, flavonoids, glycosides, saccharides, β-sitosterin, uronic acid, and key micronutrients like iron, zinc, magnesium, and vitamins A, B, and C.[4]

METHODS

This study is primarily theoretical, drawing on classical Ayurvedic texts and relevant research publications in the Ayurvedic field, and based on a comprehensive review and analysis of the available literature, Kushmanda is reported to be a potent enhancer of IQ.

Botany

Benincasa hispida is cultivated primarily for its large fruit, which may be consumed immature or fully ripe.[5,6] It’s also known by names such as Chinese preserving melon, ash pumpkin, kundur, and puhul.[7,8] Immature fruits are fuzzy, becoming wax-coated as they mature. The plant has large leaves, golden-yellow flowers, and long vines (80 cm). It is consumed across South and Southeast Asia, including Japan, Sri Lanka, and Java.[9] Four major types are recognized: wax gourd, winter melon, ridged, and fuzzy.[10] Malaysian cultivars are mainly round or elongated.[11] The plant resembles pumpkin, with coarse hair, angular stems, and triangular, lobed leaves (11.5 cm long). Petioles are 7.5–10 cm. Male flowers grow on 2–6-inch stalks; female flowers on 0.75–1.5-inch stalks.[12] The fruit can reach 4 feet and weigh up to 40 pounds, with flat, oval seeds (~0.5 inch).[13]

Taxonomy

• Plant Kingdom: Plantae

• Genus: Benincasa savi

• Species: Cerifera

• Family: Cucurbitaceae

• Order: Violales

Traditional uses and Ethanopharmacology

In Ayurveda, Kushmanda is prescribed for respiratory conditions, urinary disorders, epilepsy, and inflammation. Formulations like Kushmanda Lehyam are popular in managing epilepsy and other neuropsychological conditions.[10,11] In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), “Dong Gua” is used as a diuretic and mood stabilizer.[12] Unani medicine applies it for urinary and kidney health. Culinary and medicinal use spans stews, soups, and herbal preparations. Pharmacologically, it exhibits diuretic, laxative, aphrodisiac, cardiotonic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties [Figure 1].[13,14]

Figure 1.

Traditional uses of B. hispida

Neuroprotective properties

Protein aggregation, oxidative stress, and inflammation play key roles in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.[15] In experimental studies, fruit extract of B. hispida (400–450 mg/kg) improved antioxidant markers (glutathione, catalase) and reduced lipid peroxidation in rat models.[16,17]

Additional studies indicate: Anxiolytic effects through serotonin pathways.[18] Dose-dependent anticonvulsant activity. Sedative action without motor impairment.[19] Attenuation of morphine withdrawal and improved memory.[20]

Ayurvedic references describe Kushmanda as beneficial in Chitta Vikara, Unmada, and Apasmara. Bhaishajya Ratnavali and Basavarajeeyam describe Kushmanda Beeja and Swarasa for neuropsychiatric conditions.[21,22,23]

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Clinical studies, Kushmanda as an IQ booster

Only two clinical trials have been identified to date. In one study comparing the effects of Kushmanda Ghrita and Yasti Ghrita Pratimarsha Nasya (both nasal treatments) over two months, both were found to be equally effective memory enhancers. Significant improvements were observed in psychometric parameters, the Hamilton Anxiety Scale, instantaneous memory span (both direct and indirect tests), and Chittodvega (anxiety-related condition) after one month of Kushmanda Ghrita use.[24]

Nutritional composition

The edible fruit is ~96% water and rich in: Proteins (0.3–0.5%), lipids (<0.3%), fiber, and ash. Vitamins: thiamin, riboflavin (up to 68 mg/100g), niacin, E, and C, Minerals: potassium (77–131 mg/100g), calcium (5–23 mg/100g), phosphorus, iron, Sugars: glucose, fructose. Polysaccharides: arabinogalactans, β-(1→4)-D-galactan.

Phytochemistry

The Benincasa hispida fruit is rich in glycosides, flavonoid C glycosides, pectic polysaccharides, amino acids, terpenes, hemicellulose polysaccharides, terpenoids, sterols, proteins, hydroxybenzoic acids, phenols, tannins, saponins, triterpenes, flavonols, and hydrocinnamic acids. The seeds contain phenolic compounds, amino acids, glycosides, alkaloids, unsaturated fatty acids, and fixed oils.[25] The peel is known to contain alkaloids, saponins, steroids, tannins, flavonoids, oxalates, carotenoids, carbohydrates, and phytate. Proteins are present in the root [Figures 2 and 3].

Figure 2.

Phytochemical structures of important phytoconstituents of Benincasa hispida

Figure 3.

Significance of phytoconstituents found in Benincasa hispida

Toxicological profile

Animal studies confirm the safety of B. hispida: No adverse effects with 5% fresh juice in 90-day trials.[26] Methanolic extract safe up to 3 g/kg in rodents. Hydroalcoholic pulp extract NOAEL = 1000 mg/kg/day.[27] Ethanolic seed extract safe up to 5000 mg/kg.[28] Extracts protect against nephrotoxicity and oxidative stress.[29] Despite trace amounts of DEHP, both aqueous and ethanolic extracts were non-toxic up to 5 g/kg.[25]

CONCLUSION

Kushmanda is reputed for its ability to improve cognitive function and potentially raise IQ levels, although research on these benefits is limited. This assertion is drawn from a detailed analysis of Kushmanda’s pharmacological properties, chemical makeup, therapeutic impacts, and preclinical research available in both traditional literature and contemporary databases. Given the importance of Kushmanda, there is a clear imperative to conduct more extensive clinical trials to fully grasp its potential.

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest.

Funding Statement

Nil.