Cucurbitacin E

Cucurbitacin E is a biochemical compound from the family of Cucurbitacins. Cucurbitacin E is a highly oxidated steroid consisting of a tetracyclic triterpene. Cucurbitacin E is known to possess broad spectrum of potential anti-inflammatory, antitumor andantioxidant effects. In the wild, watermelons, cucumbers, and muskmelons produce bitter Cucurbitacins to defend against preditors. Humans have bred these fruits to eliminate these compounds thereby yielding fruits that are more appealing to our palate.