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The round bottle gourd, also known as Calabash or Lagenaria siceraria var. gourd, is a variety of gourd that grows in a spherical or nearly spherical shape. Like its elongated counterpart, it belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family and is a climbing vine plant.Characteristically, the round bottle gourd has a smooth, light green skin that matures to a pale yellow or beige color as it ripens. Its interior flesh is white, firm, and contains seeds embedded in a spongy pulp similar to the long bottle gourd. The size of the round bottle gourd can vary depending on growing conditions, but it generally ranges from small to medium-sized.In culinary terms, the round bottle gourd is used similarly to the long variety. It is popular in various cuisines for its mild flavor and ability to absorb other flavors in dishes such as soups, stews, curries, and stir-fries. The dried and hollowed-out shells of mature round bottle gourds are also utilized as containers, utensils, and decorative items in many cultures.Medicinally, the round bottle gourd is also believed to have similar health benefits as the long bottle gourd. It is traditionally used in herbal medicine for its diuretic properties and is considered beneficial for digestive health and as a remedy for high blood pressure.Overall, the round bottle gourd, with its versatile culinary uses and practical applications, remains an important part of traditional cuisines and cultures around the world.