One of the synonyms for "rag gourd" is "vegetable sponge". This name comes from the fact that the fruit of the plant is covered in a fibrous material that can be used as a natural sponge. Another synonym for rag gourd is "dishcloth gourd", which also refers to the fruit's use in cleaning and as a substitute for dishcloths. In some regions, it is also known as "Chinese okra" or "angled luffa" due to its shape and texture. The plant is a popular vegetable in some countries and is also used in traditional medicine for various ailments.