A review on Cucumis sativus (Cucumber)

Cucumis sativus is plant which is widely grown throughout the world. Cucumber is mainly consumed as raw fruit in various parts of the world. Cucumber plant has various medicinal values which are described in Ayurveda. In Ayurveda it is said to be used for burning sensation, swollen eyes, anuria, dermatitis, burns, skin whitening, emollient, and also as moisturizer. In India-China raw ripe fruit is used in treatment of dysentery in children's. Cucumber plant is also potent anthelmintic. Seed oil is used in treatment of insomnia and frontal headache. Mainly flavonoids, glycosides and tannins are responsible for various activities in plants. This article mainly covers nutritive aspects, traditional uses, various chemical constituents and pharmacology of cucumber.