Origin: Watermelon is the favorite summertime fruit. Watermelon is believed to have originated in the Kalahari Desert of Africa. It is believed that the first watermelon was harvested 5,000 years ago in Egypt. Watermelon is also mentioned in Egyptian history and is depicted on the walls of ancient buildings and monuments. In ancient times, Egyptians used to put a watermelon in burial tombs for a nourishing life after death.
Watermelons then made their way in different countries through the Mediterranean Sea by merchant ships. Around the 10th century, watermelon was introduced in China and now it’s the leading manufacturer of Watermelon in the world.
In the 13th century, watermelon was introduced into Europe through the Moors.
As suggested by a historian, watermelon found its way into the United States of America through African slaves. This is stated in his book, the Southern food. Later, in the 17th century, they were harvested in Massachusetts, Peru, Brazil, Panama and many other British and Dutch colonies.
Scientifically: There are more than 200-300 varieties of watermelon in the world, but only 50 varieties are the most popular ones. Watermelon is scientifically called Citrullus Lanatus and belongs to the botanical family Curcurbitaceae. Watermelon is related to cucumbers, pumpkins, and squash. Watermelon is sweet, juicy and full of water and has smooth hard outer which is green or dark green with stripes or yellow spots.
Watermelons are full of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C and are low in fat and sodium which makes them really healthy food.
Watermelons are smaller and mostly spherical in shapes. The interior of the flesh which is the edible part is usually red or pink. It is also orange, and white in color from inside can be seeded or seedless.
Watermelon is a delicious and refreshing fruit and is liked by all. Watermelon is considered as a blessing when it comes to health. Watermelon is a very hydrating fruit as it is mostly 92% water and keeps you full for a longer time. Watermelon is a low-calorie fruit and is very nutritious. It contains vitamin C, vitamin A, Potassium, Magnesium, and vitamins B1, B5 and B6.
Usage: Watermelon is high in carotenoids, including beta-carotene and lycopene. Plus, it has citrulline, an important amino acid. Watermelon has several nutrients which prevent heart attack. It has great anti-inflammatory properties. It prevents the Alzheimers, Watermelon is rich in vitamin A and vitamin C which help in boosting collagen and repairing skin cell. It also aids digestion.
Below are some DIYs for beautiful and refreshing skin and hair:
- To have clean and clear skin, use watermelon toner(watermelon juice) that will hydrate your skin and removes blemishes.
- Take a tablespoon of watermelon juice and a tablespoon of mashed avocado.mix them together and apply on the face. Keep this pack on your face for 15-20 minutes, before rinsing it off with warm water. This makes our skin soft and supple.
- Take a tablespoon of watermelon juice and a tablespoon of yogurt. Mix them together and apply on the face. Wash it off after 15 minutes. This helps in controlling sebum production.
- To nourish off really dry skin, take two tablespoons of watermelon juice and half banana. Mix them together into a paste and apply on the dry areas of the body. Rinse after 15 minutes.
- Take a tablespoon of blended watermelon and a tablespoon of gram flour, mix them together and apply on the face and body. Let it dry for 15 minutes and then rinse. This thoroughly cleanses the skin.
- Blend some watermelon juice with mint leaves, and freeze this mixture in ice trays. Rub these ice cubes on your skin to close open skin pores. This is also a great remedy to cleanse your pores of the dust and pollution.
- Take some watermelon juice and apply it to your scalp and hair length. Leave it on 15 minutes and then shampoo your hair.