The ultimate summer fruit is ripe for the picking, and it comes with a wealth of health benefits. More than just a refreshing dessert or treat for the hotter days, watermelon is a proven medicinal food. With the scientific name Citrullus lanatus, watermelon is a fruit that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. While native to the Kalahari Desert in Africa, it is cultivated in many tropical and nontropical regions today. Watermelons are a much-valued source of the antioxidant ascorbic acid, as well as lycopene and citrulline. These may help protect against chronic issues such as cardiovascular disease and cancers. Lycopene gives fruits and vegetables their distinctive red color. In a 2003 study, consuming regular watermelon juice led to significant increases in blood plasma concentrations of lycopene and beta carotene. At 92 percent water, watermelon helps you stay hydrated. This is one of the reasons why fruits and vegetables promote a feeling …