Why Malabar spinach is associated with Goddess Katyayani

On Navratri’s sixth day, Goddess Katyayani is associated with poi, or Malabar spinach, known as Upodika in Sanskrit. The leafy vegetable contains fibre, iron, calcium and vitamins A and C. Ayurveda describes it as cooling and beneficial for digestion, though claims that it treats anaemia, insomnia or skin disorders require stronger scientific evidence.