Luffa is a plant that has various uses in medicine, cosmetics, and food. Here are some details about luffa:
Positive:
- Luffa is used to treat and prevent colds, nasal swelling, and sinus problems.
- It is used in skin care products to reduce swelling and "detoxify" the skin.
- Luffa charcoal, which is prepared by heating luffa fibers in a closed container, is applied directly to the skin for shingles in the face and eye region.
- Luffa is used as a vegetable in food.
- Luffa seed oil is used topically as a non-comedogenic, fast-absorbing yet long-lasting emollient that gently moisturizes, soothes, nourishes, and softens skin without leaving a greasy residue. Its antiseptic and disinfectant properties can eliminate harmful bacteria on the skin.
Negative:
- Information regarding adverse reactions with use of luffa at doses higher than those typically consumed as food is lacking.
Ingredients or Materials:
- Luffa fibers can be boiled in water, which is then used as medicine.
- Luffa charcoal is applied directly to the skin for shingles in the face and eye region.
- Powdered luffa is used in skin care products to reduce swelling and "detoxify" the skin.
- Luffa consists of 63% cellulose, 20.88% hemicellulose, 11.69% lignin, and 0.4% ash.
- Luffa seed oil contains palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, and linoleic acid.
- Luffa is a gourd in the cucumber family that is used to make natural loofahs for exfoliating and cleansing skin.
- Luffa sponge has been studied for its stiffness, strength, and energy absorption characteristics.
