The Benefits of Melon and Its Peel: Pregnancy, Face Masks, and Herbal Tea

According to Saednews, Melon is a delicious and highly nutritious summer fruit from the Cucurbitaceae family. It is rich in vitamins A, B, and C, as well as important minerals such as calcium, potassium, and phosphorus.

This fruit has a yellow to orange color, a soft and juicy texture, and a sweet, fragrant taste. It usually grows on the ground in round or elongated shapes. Inside the melon are small white seeds that also have nutritional benefits.

Due to its high nutritional value, melon is considered a beneficial fruit for hydrating the body and improving overall health. In this section, we will explore its many benefits.

Nutritional value per 100 grams of melon

• 1 g fiber

• 12 mg calcium

• 17 mg phosphorus

• 238 mg potassium

• 1250 IU vitamin A precursor

• 31 kcal energy

• 37 mg vitamin C

Melon’s nature (traditional medicine)

Melon has a balanced and moist nature. The sweeter the melon, the warmer and more moist its nature is considered.

Types of melon in Iran

Different types of melons are cultivated in Iran:

• Mashhadi melon: One of the most famous types, with deep yellow flesh, sweet taste, and juicy texture. It is considered helpful for kidney stones due to its diuretic properties.

• Dastambo melon: Small, highly aromatic, grown in hot and dry regions like Yazd and Kerman. It has a slightly tangy taste and is used to relieve thirst.

• Green melon: Has green skin with pale yellow or white flesh. It is firmer and has a longer shelf life.

• Shamam melon: A large melon with orange flesh and sweet taste, similar to cantaloupe, commonly found in northern regions and Hamadan.

• Lebanese melon (cantaloupe): Has a netted skin and sweet flavor; widely used in desserts, smoothies, and fruit salads.

Health benefits of melon

For pregnant women

Melon contains high levels of folate, which helps cell production and reduces neural tube defects in the fetus. It also helps reduce water retention.

For lungs

Vitamin A in melon supports lung health and may help repair damage, especially in smokers.

For insomnia

Melon has calming properties that reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.

For women’s health and menstruation

It may help regulate blood flow and reduce menstrual discomfort due to antioxidants and hydration.

Weight loss

Melon is 90% water and low in calories. Its fiber promotes satiety and helps prevent overeating.

Immune system support

Vitamins A and C strengthen the immune system and help fight infections.

Liver health (fatty liver)

Its antioxidants help reduce inflammation and support detoxification of the liver.

For men’s health

It may improve sperm quality, support prostate health, boost energy, and improve cardiovascular health.

Heart health

Potassium helps regulate blood pressure and supports cardiovascular function.

Cancer prevention

Antioxidants such as vitamin C and beta-carotene help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Brain health

Melon may improve memory, concentration, sleep quality, and reduce stress.

Eye health

Beta-carotene converts to vitamin A, helping maintain vision and reduce risk of cataracts.

Diabetic nephropathy prevention

Its low glycemic impact and hydration properties may help protect kidney function.

Melon benefits in traditional medicine

• Helps remove kidney and bladder stones

• Relieves constipation

• Improves digestion

• Reduces fever and heat exhaustion

• Supports lung conditions like tuberculosis

• Helps treat hemorrhoids

• Improves mood and mental clarity

Skin benefits

• Hydrates and brightens skin

• Reduces wrinkles and pigmentation

• Helps repair minor burns

• Improves elasticity due to vitamin C

• Protects against UV damage

Melon face mask:
Mash melon with oats and yogurt, apply for 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

Hair benefits

• May reduce hair loss due to B vitamins

• Acts as a natural conditioner, improving softness and shine

Melon seeds, peel, and traditional uses

• Seeds: Help with digestion, kidney cleansing, cough relief, and act as a mild laxative

• Peel: Used as a mouth rinse for tooth pain relief

• Melon root tea: Traditionally used as a diuretic and in some treatments for inducing vomiting

Side effects and precautions

• May cause bloating and digestive discomfort if overeaten

• Excess consumption can increase blood sugar

• Eating at night may cause indigestion

• Unripe melon may cause diarrhea and weakness

• May interact with certain medications (especially diuretics)

• Can worsen cold symptoms in some individuals

• Overconsumption may increase body heat and thirst

• Melon with honey is not recommended in traditional medicine

• Eating before meals may cause diarrhea in sensitive individuals

Additional note

Melon is a highly hydrating, nutrient-rich fruit that supports many aspects of health when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.