Ivy gourd Kowakka, scientifically known as Coccinia grandis, is commonly found in Sri Lanka and throughout Southeast Asia. Locally known as "Kovakka" in Sinhala and "Kowakka" in Tamil, it's a vigorous, fast-growing perennial vine that belongs to the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae). Here are some key aspects:

Appearance:
-Vine: Ivy gourd is a climbing vine that can sprawl over fences, trees, or any support it finds.
-Leaves: Its leaves are heart-shaped, green, and often have a slightly fuzzy texture.
-Fruit: The fruit resembles a small cucumber or gherkin, about 2-3 inches long, and is initially green, turning bright red as it matures. The fruit has numerous small seeds and a slightly bitter taste.

Culinary Use:
-Cuisine: Ivy gourd is a popular vegetable in Sri Lankan cuisine and is used in various dishes, including curries, stir-fries, and salads.
-Flavor: It has a slightly bitter taste when raw but becomes milder and sweeter when cooked.

Medicinal Uses:
-Traditional Medicine: In Sri Lanka and other regions, it's used in traditional medicine for various purposes, such as treating diabetes, fever, asthma, and as a natural remedy for certain skin conditions. Kowakka

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