Momordica dioica Roxb. (KARKOTAKI)

Karkotaka is mentioned by brhat trayi as well as nighantu works as a vegetable fruit.  It is identified as M. dioica.  Another plant by name karkotaki (C.S.Ka.4/2) or karkoti (A.H.Ut.30/18) is considered as vandhyakarkotaki and is identified as M.cochinchinensis Spreng).  

Botanical Description – Momordica dioica, commonly known as Teasle Gourd Kakrol, Kankro, Kartoli or Kantoli, is a relatively small oval to ovoid vegetable, It is a very Highly prized vegetable in the Indian Sub-continent though relatively rare. It is only available during the rainy months The wild one is M. cochinchinensis.

Chemical constituents – The vegetable is rich in calcium, phosphorus, iron and carotene.

Uses – Fruits are consumed by frying, or cooking, with or without meat or fish.