Ivy gourd (Coccinia indica) is a uniquetropical plant that is a member of the familyof Cucurbitaceae. It grows well in India andThailand as well as in tropical areas such asHawaii.
Ivy gourd has been classified as a medicinalherb in traditional Thai and ayurvedicmedicine. The parts used in diabetestreatment are the leaves, but the primary useof ivy gourd is culinary, and it is considered avegetable.
Ivy gourd contains beta-carotene, a majorvitamin A precursor from plant sources. Itis also considered a good source of proteinand fiber.