Author: Setareh Kiumarsi
Wait! is cucumber a fruit?! Then why do we put it in fruit platters?
Remember how we said in earlier posts that fruits should never be combined with other foods, and should always be eaten on their own?
Well, cucumbers fall into that category, don’t eat them with other fruits!
Cucumber is a very cooling vegetable and one of the best remedies for Pitta-related issues (those caused by excess heat or bile).
But it also has a dual aggravating effect:
– It disturbs Vata (wind/air) and causes bloating,
– It disturbs Kapha (mucus/phlegm) and causes water retention in the body.
If your constitution tends to be cold, your metabolism is slow, or you frequently experience bloating, avoid raw cucumber.
Treat it like you would zucchini—cook it with warming spices like turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, thyme, etc., and pair it with warming vegetables like carrots, parsley, basil, cress, or savory greens.
In cold seasons, try to cut back on cucumber altogether.
If you have low blood pressure, be cautious with cucumber. It’s a natural home remedy for reducing high blood pressure and could drop yours too low.
Cucumber helps cool the body down on hot days. But be mindful:
Always eat raw cucumber with its skin on. Sprinkle a little salt and fennel powder on top—this makes it easier to digest and brings both Vata and Kapha back into balance.
Here’s a cooling summer drink you can make:
In a glass of water, mix:
– 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
– 1 tsp grape molasses (or syrup)
– a pinch of salt
– 1 tbsp rosewater or willow blossom water
Then add 2 tbsp grated cucumber (with skin). Sip it slowly on hot summer days.
And while you’re at it, slice two thin rounds of cucumber, lie down on your back, close your eyes, and place them on your eyelids. Breathe deeply. 🙂
Let your food be your medicine—lovingly written and shared by Setareh Kiumarsi.
Please be sure to credit the author, Setareh Kiumarsi, when sharing or republishing this article, which was written with love and the hope of well-being for all.
