Parval or parwal is a widely cultivated vegetable in the northern parts of India. They also call it a green potato. In English, it is known as a pointed gourd. It belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family and other vine-grown vegetables, like turiya and long dudhi, which are also popular in Indian cuisine. The scientific term for parval is Trichosanthes Dioica – which means that it is a dioecious plant having bi-parental reproduction conditions. Similar plants include asparagus, kiwi, currant bushes, papaya, yam, holly, spinach, mulberry, and mistletoe, to name a few. It is also considered a perennial plant because it can live longer than the usual life span of most plants. The parval or parwal vegetable is known to contain antioxidants; vitamins including vitamin A and C, which help fight the elements in our body that contribute to ageing. This vegetable is highly recommended as well when addressing constipation and other stomach problems. There are so many Indian dishes and/or Asian dishes that you can try at home with this nutritious ingredient. Check out the last part of this description for our recommended recipes that you can easily prepare at home. Benefits of Eating Parval or Pointed Gourd Aside from containing powerful antioxidants and vitamins, this vegetable is also helpful for: Weight-loss – Since a healthy balanced diet can’t go on without vegetables on your meal plan, make sure to include our pointed gourd in there. It is extremely low in calorie content and is best for maintaining your desired body weight. Improves digestion – So apart from helping you treat constipation, it also contributes to regularize your body’s digestive mechanism. It will strengthen your gastrointestinal tract, getting rid of GI problems and liver-related issues. Purifies your Blood – The parwal vegetable has been a traditional part of Ayurvedic medicine; it acts as a cleaning agent for your blood and tissues, which in effect makes your skin healthier too. Boosts your Immune System – One of the most common characteristics among different types of gourd vegetables is its high water content. Water, being one of the most important things that our body needs to function well, is also essential for our immune system to stay healthy and safe from contracting common ailments like catching a cold and flu. Anti-aging Agent – As mentioned, parval contains antioxidants and other vitamins that fight off the free radicals entering our system. More benefits than you can get from eating pointed gourd are antibacterial properties, treats dehydration and alcohol effects to your body, aids in treating jaundice (liver problem), and helps control blood sugar level. Parval’s nutritional content consists of iron, calcium, potassium, sulfur, copper, magnesium, and vitamins A and C. Parval/Pointed Gourd Delicious Recipes Here is a list of some must-try recipes that you should prepare for the entire family. Aloo Parval Shahi Parwal/Royal Ivy Gourd Parwal Sabzi in Coconut Cream Aloo Parwal ki Subzi Parwal Masala Bharwa Parwal/Stuffed Parwal Sabzi Dry Stuffed Parwal Parwal Paneer Dry Curry Pointed Gourd ( Parwal) Bharta Keema Parwal