An Unexpected Discovery: Snake Gourd

Being not only a local to Barbados but also a 'foodie' there are not many local foods that I have not tried or at least seen. So, when I came across this oddly shaped vegetable in Cheapside Market I was taken by surprise. I immediately snapped a few photos and bought one to try. The vendor informed me to cook the Snake Gourds (chichinda) before it gets all woody and and the seeds mature. She also advised that I add a little coconut to the meal as the two pair wonderfully. I did as she said and served the cooked down Snake Gourd (chichinda) with rice. 

The Snake Gourd belongs to the Gourd family of the Cucurbitaceae. The vine is of exceedingly rapid growth and has quite a climbing habit. The vegetable, as seen above, grows to approximately 150 cm long and 8 cm thick. After doing some rather intense research I was informed that the snake gourd (chichinda) is extremely advantageous with various health benefits:

* Snake Gourd is a natural antibiotic, expectorant and laxative
* Snake Gourd expels toxic matter and is an anti-inflammatory
* Snake Gourd aids in the production of body fluids
* Snake Gourd helps in reducing bilious fever
* Snake Gourd is useful in correcting disorders of the heart such as palpitations 
* Snake Gourd is thought to be beneficial in the treatment of jaundice
* Snake Gourd aids with digestion 

Have you ever tried Snake Gourd or Chichinda? We would love to know how you prepare yours!