What is the use of Momordica charantia leaves?
Momordica charantia (Bitter melon), a climbing vine whose leaves and green fruits, although bitter, has been used to fight cancer, diabetes and many infectious diseases. It is also a powerful weapon against HIV/AIDS. According to Ayurveda, roots are useful in treatment of eye related diseases. Apart from its potential antibacterial [36] and antiviral activities [37], bitter melon extracts are also effective against cancer and were found to be effective for the treatment of ulcer, malaria, pain and inflammation, psoriasis, dyslipidemia, and hypertension.In Asian countries, bitter melon is believed to help regulate blood sugar and detox the liver.Bitter melon is a perennial plant found in Asia, South America, East Africa, and the Caribbean. The edible fruit is used both as food and in medicine to treat diabetes, cancer, viral infections, and immune disorders. Several active substances in bitter melon may act in a way similar to insulin.Bitter Melon leaves are given to help remedy worm infections, malaria, and high blood pressure in the Caribbean and parts of Africa. Bitter Melon leaves are also steeped in boiling water worldwide as a tea and tonic.Bitter melon is an excellent source of antioxidants, including alpha and beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin, and vitamins A and C, all of which protect the body from oxidative stress, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, and protect against age-related macular degeneration.
Is Momordica charantia safe to eat?
Bitter melon, commonly known as bitter melon or Momordica charantia, is a tropical, gourd-like fruit that is said to have many benefits. Bitter melon can be used as a food, as a juice called Karela juice, or as a tea. Momordica charantia (M. Asia, South America, India, the Caribbean and East Africa[11],[12].Moringa, Neem, and Bitter Leaf show scientifically supported antidiabetic properties. These plants are especially valuable in areas where access to pharmaceutical care is limited. Despite benefits, professional supervision is essential when using herbal remedies alongside conventional treatments.
What are the side effects of Momordica charantia?
Bitter melon extracts are usually well tolerated, but side effects can include abdominal discomfort, heartburn, constipation or diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, headache and hypoglycemia. Rare but potentially severe adverse effects include severe hypoglycemia, coma and seizures. Bitter melon extracts are usually well tolerated, but side effects can include abdominal discomfort, heartburn, constipation or diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, headache and hypoglycemia. Rare but potentially severe adverse effects include severe hypoglycemia, coma and seizures.Side Effects Ingestion of excessive amounts of bitter melon juice (several times more than the recommended amounts) can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea. Excessive ingestion of the seeds had been associated with headache, fever, and coma. Bitter melon is not recommended for pregnant women.You are pregnant: pregnant: Animal studies suggest bitter melon may cause birth defects. You are taking insulin: Bitter melon may have additive effects. You are taking diabetes medications: diabetes medications: Bitter melon may have additive effects.High doze of bitter leaf may result to vascular shock, vomiting, diarrhoea, pancreatitis and damage of hepatic parenchyma. Scientific evidence advises that bitter leaves should not be consumed in high amounts – because, at high doses, it becomes toxic and poisonous to human cells, most especially, skin cells.