- Family Name: Cucurbitaceae
- Common Names: Melon, Cantaloupe
- Description: Round, oval, or obvoid in shape, up to 12 inches long, smooth skin, grooved, ribbed or netted, varieties vary in color.
- Family Characteristics: The Cucurbitaceae contains over 90 genera and 750 species.
They are predominately warm season crops of tropical and temperate subtropical origin,
many of which thrive in hot and humid conditions.
Members of this family are known as vine crops, having a prostrate or climbing nature, and are
characterized by tendrils. Most are herbaceous annuals, few are perennials, and
all are frost sensitive.
- Origin: World-Wide
Melons are known to contribute to a person's health by being a rich source of beta-carotene
(for muskmelon), but are less well known for their ascorbic acid, carbohydrate,
dietary fiber, potassium, calcium and iron contents. Melons have at least
thirty-eight (38) of these chemical compounds with beneficial human biological
activities. These compounds are called phytochemicals and can have
anti-arthritic, cataract, cold, depressant, glaucomic, migraine, obesity,
parkinson, ulcer, properties in addition to cancer-preventive attributes.
Properties of Melon Favored by Aztec's
- Diuretic,
- Digestive,
- Laxative,
- Recommended for Persons suffering from Bladder and Kidney Problems
- and used against certain types of Intestinal Parasites.
Aztec Method of Use
- Eat the fruit be it either a natural, in salads or as a drink.
- To fight certain types of Intestinal Parasites:
Drink on an empty
stomach a glass of Melon
Horchata prepared with Melon seeds, water and sugar
to taste.
