What to know about Citrullus lanatus (watermelon) before using it medicinally

Citrullus lanatus, commonly known as watermelon, is a herb renowned for its exceptional health properties, which have been shown to boost hydration, reduce inflammation, and even exhibit antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.

In terms of horticultural aspects, Citrullus lanatus is a warm-season crop that thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it a popular choice for gardeners and farmers worldwide. From a botanical standpoint, Citrullus lanatus is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, characterized by its unique pentamerous flower structure and long, trailing vines.

Historically, this herb has been referenced in ancient civilizations, including Egypt, where it was considered a symbol of fertility and abundance.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Citrullus lanatus.

What are the medicinal properties of Citrullus lanatus?

Citrullus lanatus helps with reducing inflammation, improving cardiovascular health, and aiding in digestion due to its rich content of citrulline, antioxidants, and fiber.

The active constituents of Citrullus lanatus include citrulline, cucurbitacin E, and cucurbitacins, which possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, contributing to its medicinal effects.

The parts of the plant most used for medicinal purposes are the fruit, seeds, and rind, which are rich in citrulline, vitamins, and minerals, and have been traditionally used to treat various ailments, including fever, rheumatism, and digestive issues.

Improper use of Citrullus lanatus can lead to side effects such as diarrhea, stomach upset, and interactions with medications, including antacids, ACE inhibitors, and potassium supplements, due to its high water content and citrulline content.

To use Citrullus lanatus medicinally, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional and follow proper preparation and dosing guidelines, as excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects, especially for individuals with kidney disease, diabetes, or pregnancy, and to monitor blood pressure and electrolyte levels.

What are the horticulural aspects of Citrullus lanatus?

Citrullus lanatus grow best in full sun (6 hours of direct sunlight) and well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. It requires a warm temperature range of 65-85°F (18-30°C) for optimal growth. Watermelon is a warm-season crop that thrives in tropical and subtropical climates.

Watermelon seeds should be sown 1 inch deep and 6-8 feet apart in rows that are 8-10 feet apart. Transplant seedlings 2-3 weeks after sowing. Soils should be watered deeply once a week, and mulched to retain moisture. Fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK when the plants are about 2 feet tall.

Watermelons are ready to harvest 70-80 days after sowing, when the rind turns yellow and the underside of the fruit is cream-colored. Harvest in the morning to avoid damage from heat. Use a sharp knife to cut the fruit from the vine, leaving 1 inch of stem attached. Handle the fruit carefully to avoid bruising.

Common pests of watermelon include aphids, whiteflies, and squash bugs. Diseases such as fusarium wilt, powdery mildew, and anthracnose are common in warm and humid conditions. Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests and diseases and take action promptly to prevent the spread of infestations.

What are the botanical aspects of Citrullus lanatus?

Citrullus lanatus is a climbing annual plant with a long, hairy stem and branches that can reach up to 10 meters in length. The leaves are alternate, palmate with 7-11 leaflets, and are covered with soft, white hairs. The flowers are yellow with a reddish spot in the center.

Citrullus lanatus belongs to the family Cucurbitaceae and is classified as a member of the genus Citrullus. The species is further divided into two subspecies: Citrullus lanatus var. citrullus and Citrullus lanatus var. lanatus. The taxonomic classification of the plant is as follows: Kingdom: Plantae, Clade: Angiosperms, Clade: Eudicots, Clade: Rosids, Order: Cucurbitales, Family: Cucurbitaceae, Genus: Citrullus, Species: C. lanatus.

The plant has several variants, including the sweet melon (Citrullus lanatus var. citrullus), which is the most commonly cultivated variety, and the citron melon (Citrullus lanatus var. lanatus), which has a larger fruit with a more pronounced flavor. Other variants include the seedless watermelon, the mini watermelon, and the orange-fleshed watermelon.

Citrullus lanatus is native to Africa and has been widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It has also naturalized in many areas, including the southern United States, Australia, and the Indian subcontinent. The plant has been introduced to new regions through human activity, and has become a popular crop in many countries.

The life cycle of Citrullus lanatus typically lasts for 90 to 120 days. The plant germinates within 5 to 10 days after sowing, and reaches maturity in 90 to 120 days after germination. The fruit develops within 60 to 90 days after flowering, and is typically harvested within 30 to 60 days after full maturity.

What are the historical aspects of Citrullus lanatus?

Citrullus lanatus is an ancient plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine, food, and cultural practices. In ancient Egypt, China, and Africa, watermelon was cultivated for its edible fruit and used to treat various ailments such as fever, sore eyes, and indigestion.

In ancient Greek and Roman mythology, watermelon was associated with fertility and abundance, as depicted in stories of Demeter, the goddess of agriculture, and Ceres, the Roman equivalent. The myth of Persephone and Demeter also linked watermelon to the changing of the seasons.

Watermelon has been imbued with symbolic meanings across cultures, representing fertility, abundance, and prosperity. In some African cultures, the rind is used in traditional ceremonies to ward off evil spirits, while in others it is considered a symbol of hospitality.

Historical texts provide evidence of watermelon cultivation in ancient civilizations. The Greek historian, Theophrastus, described watermelon cultivation in his work "Enquiry into Plants" (c. 300 BCE). Similarly, the Chinese physician, Li Shizhen, wrote about watermelon's medicinal properties in his book "Bencao Gangmu" (1596 CE).

Archaeological findings have revealed evidence of watermelon cultivation dating back to around 2000 BCE in Africa and the Middle East. Excavations in the Egyptian tomb of Thutmose III (1479-1425 BCE) uncovered watermelon seeds and rinds, demonstrating the fruit's importance in ancient Egyptian cuisine.