Appearance: White bitter gourd differs from the more common green bitter gourd in that it has a pale white or ivory-coloured skin. The shape and texture are generally similar to green bitter gourd, elongated with a bumpy exterior.
Taste: Like its green counterpart, white bitter gourd has a bitter taste, although the intensity of bitterness may vary slightly.
Culinary Use: White bitter gourd is used in various cuisines, particularly in Asian cooking. It is often sliced thinly and used in stir-fries, curries, soups, and salads. In some dishes, it is cooked with spices and other ingredients to balance the bitterness.
Nutritional Benefits: Bitter gourds in general are low in calories and rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins (especially vitamin C and vitamin A), minerals (including potassium and iron), dietary fibre, and antioxidants. They are known for their potential health benefits, particularly in managing blood sugar levels.
Medicinal Uses: In traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), bitter gourds, including white bitter gourd, are used for their medicinal properties. They are believed to have anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting effects.