They sure are great ! Cucumbers are scientifically known as Cucumis sativus and belong to the same family as watermelon, zucchini, pumpkin, and other types of squash.
Cucumbers are a very good source of the vitamins C and the mineral molybdenum. They are also a good source of vitamin A, , manganese, and folate,
The flesh of cucumbers is primarily composed of water but also contains ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and caffeic acid, both of which help soothe skin irritations and reduce swelling. Cucumbers'hard skin is rich in dietary fiber and contains a variety of beneficial minerals including the important mineral silica, potassium and magnesium.
The silica in cucumber is an essential component of healthy connective tissue, which includes muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bone. Cucumber juice is often recommended as a source of silica to improve the complexion and health of the skin, plus cucumber's high water content makes it naturally hydrating—a must for glowing skin. Cucumbers are also used topically for various types of skin problems, including swelling under the eyes and sunburn. Two compounds in cucumbers, ascorbic acid and caffeic acid, prevent water retention, which may explain why cucumbers applied topically are often helpful for swollen eyes, burns and dermatitis.
Adding a crunchy cool cucumber to your salads is an especially good way to increase your fiber intake because cucumber comes naturally prepackaged with the extra fluid you need when consuming more fiber. Plus, you get the added bonus of vitamin C, silica, potassium and magnesium.
Foods high in potassium, magnesium and fiber, such as cucumers drops high blood pressure to healthier levels.
Cucumbers have a cooling effect on the body, as "cool as a cucumber" as the saying goes, hence, it can be used used to reduce heat and inflammation. It can be eaten raw, pickled or used in cooking. Ive used i tin stir fries and they are great, besides he obvious use in salads. This cool fruit is popular in India because it is normally used to help treat tired eyes. Cucumber can be used for skin problems because of its diuretic, cooling and cleansing property
Another benefit of cucumber is in helping to heal a range of illnesses – including lung, stomach and chest problem, gout, arthritis and tapeworm
To reduce heartburn or sooth acid stomach, drink fresh cucumber juice. The same applies for people suffering from gastritis or ulcer.
To reduce swelling and soothe the eyes, place a cucumber slice over closed eyes.
Cucumber juice, when taken daily may help to control cases of eczema, arthritis and gout.
Keep cucumbers cool or it will be soggy. Either keep it refrigerated or keep it away from direct sunlight. Avoid cucumbers that are yellow, puffy, have sunken water-soaked areas, or are wrinkled at their tips. Thinner cucumbers will generally have less seeds than those that are thicker. While many people are used to purchasing cucumbers that have a waxed coating, it is highly recommended to choose those that are unwaxed, so the nutrient-rich skin can be eaten without consuming the wax and any chemicals trapped in it.
Cucumbers should be stored in the refrigerator where they will keep for several days. If you do not use the entire cucumber during one meal, wrap the remainder tightly in plastic or place it in a sealed container so that it does not become dried out. For maximum quality, cucumber should be used within one or two days. Cucumbers should not be left out at room temperature for too long as this will cause them to wilt and become limp.
Unwaxed cucumbers do not need to be peeled but should be washed before cutting. Waxed cucumbers should always be peeled first. Cucumbers can be sliced, diced or cut into sticks. While the seeds are edible and nutritious, some people prefer not to eat them. To easily remove them, cut the cucumber lengthwise and use the tip of a spoon to gently scoop them out.
To get rid of the bitterness, cut off the ends and peel the skin.
Although slicing cucumbers are available year round, they are at their best from May through July.
2007-02-11 16:45:49
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answer #1
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answered by Gaura 2
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cucumbers are just great and delicious, and the most important, was proved to be fat burning, so lets eat more to stay slim and healthy
2007-02-11 17:12:05
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answer #3
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answered by Anonymous
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