Watermelon
Citrullus lanatus
Fruits. African and Modern nutrition.
Also called Sandía, Tarbuj, Water melon
Pinyin: Xī Guā
Spanish: Sandía
Watermelon is a juicy melon that is mostly water, eaten fresh and studied for citrulline, an amino acid that may affect blood pressure.
Did you know? Watermelon was first domesticated in Africa, and ancient Egyptians grew it.
What it may help, and how strong the proof is
- Blood pressure. Watermelon contains citrulline, which the body turns into arginine. Small trials of watermelon juice and citrulline pills show modest blood pressure changes, but results are mixed.Early proof
- Muscles & exercise. One small trial found that watermelon juice reduced muscle soreness after hard exercise. More trials are needed.Traditional proof
Parts of the body
Traditional use
Across Africa and the Middle East, watermelon has been eaten for water and food in dry lands. Folk remedies have used the rind and seeds for urinary problems, but these uses are not tested.
How it is classified
How people take it
Eaten fresh, as juice or frozen. Trials often used juice or citrulline pills, which hold more citrulline than a normal serving of fruit.
Food and juice.
Where to get it
Grown in warm regions of Africa, the Middle East, China, Turkey, Brazil and the US. Sold whole, cut, as juice, and as roasted seeds. Key nutrients: vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, citrulline and lycopene (a red plant pigment).
Be careful
Generally safe for most people. Watermelon is low in calories, but large amounts can loosen stools. People with ragweed allergy can react to it through a cross-reaction.
Avoid if: ragweed allergy.
Mixing with other things
- Works well together
Chili and lime on watermelon is a popular snack in Mexico.
- Worth knowingBlood pressure medicine (lisinopril, amlodipine, losartan)
Watermelon may lower blood pressure slightly. This is unlikely to matter for normal food, but tell your doctor if you take BP medicines and eat a lot of it.
The honest take
Watermelon is hydrating, low in calories and gives vitamins A and C. Its blood pressure and muscle claims come from small trials, mostly using juice or citrulline pills rather than normal servings. It is a good food, but it is not a proven remedy.