Bioactive Compounds in Trichosanthes Cucumerina, Their Bioactivities, and Associated Health Benefits: A Review

Trichosanthes cucumerina, or snake gourd, is a plant with significant nutritional and medicinal properties, traditionally used to treat various ailments. It contains bioactive compounds like flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, and triterpenoids, which contribute to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and hepatoprotective effects. This review highlights the plant's potential as a functional food and its industrial relevance in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. Despite its availability and traditional use, T. cucumerina remains underutilized, and this review aims to consolidate existing data to support future research and the development of herbal products and dietary supplements.