Effects of Cucumis melo L. seed on seasonal allergy treatment

Melo (Cucumis melo L.) a member of Cucurbitaceae family widely were cultured in Khorasan Province, Iran. Melo seeds and periphery layer (MSPL) of that is full of protein and amino acids, fatty acids, omega-3s, vitamins B and E, folic acid, caffeic acid and salts such as magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, and potassium, however, this part of Melo discard as a waste product. Based those and as a source of antioxidants and triterpenoids, MSPL with warm and dry (Yellow bile) humor are effective in treating kidney diseases (i.e. kidney stones), immune responses, skin allergies (i.e. eczema), and in scavenging free radicals. Consequently, it is expected MSPL be also effective in treating and reducing the symptoms of seasonal allergies. To examine that, Cucumis melons were prepared (from Torbat Heydarieh region), MSPL were dried and powdered. 40 volunteers (20 male, 20 females) divided into 4 groups including 10 persons for each control or treatment group. Each person used 2.6g powder every 42 hours for 30 days from 16 March to 14 April (times that allergy symptoms are arising). Pea flour was used as a control. Volunteers filled the questionnaire in 2 steps (before and after using powder). The results were analyzed by the Wilcoxon signed-rank test in SPSS. Our results showed MSPL has a considerable impact on reducing symptoms of seasonal allergies that occur on the eye, nose, throat, skin, and ears, respectively. Interestingly, MSPL has no effect on seasonal sensitivity-related coughing. These findings could be applicable to seasonal allergies treatment.

Keywords:

Cucumis Melo , Melon seed , Seasonal allergy , Herbal treatment