Kiwano - Cucumis metuliferus - is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family and the Melothrieae tribe. It is eaten like a melon or as a squeezed juice. Its complex flavor is reminiscent of melon, banana, kiwi, pineapple and lime. In tropical and subtropical Africa, kiwano grows wild from south of the Sahara to Namibia, Botswana and South Africa. There are naturally very bitter and strictly sweet strains, with all the gradients in between. The fruit is eaten raw or roasted. They can be made into jams or vinegar preserves. They keep for up to 6 months and contain 4 times more vitamin C than oranges. The medicinal qualities of kiwano are extensive: it is analgesic, antiviral, antibacterial, antidiabetic, anti-protozoal, antifungal and also has virtues for fertility - by increasing sperm count and mobility - the gastrointestinal sphere - with anti-ulcer activity - and haematology - increased blood flow.
