The Internet is abuzz with a new health challenge that promises clearer skin and improved digestion in just three weeks — it involves consuming fresh ash gourd juice every morning, on an empty stomach. Those who swear by it point to its Ayurvedic roots, which claim that the humble light green gourd can improve digestion, lung health, energy levels and even joint health. As ash gourds are alkaline in nature, the juice is considered a cornerstone of the alkaline diet that is being adopted by celebrities across the board, including designer Masaba Gupta and actor Sagarika Ghatge.

Ash gourd comes with medicinal benefits such as a high content of dietary fibres and promotes the growth of intestinal microbiota