Bitter melon, the edible fruit of the Momordica charantia plant, grows in tropical and subtropical climates and is used as both food and medicine in a number of cultures. Bitter melon is used as a digestive aid and an anti-infective, has shown some benefit in treating both diabetes and cancer, and is used in a variety of other conditions.
Nutritional Information
According to the National Bitter Melon Council, bitter melon contains at least 32 active chemicals. Important nutrients in bitter melon include lycopene, iron, beta carotene, calcium, potassium, phosphorus and vitamins A, C, B1 and B3. Bitter melon also is a good source of dietary fiber.
Digestion
Along with other bitter foods, bitter melon can help stimulate digestion, making it a useful addition to the diet of individuals with dyspepsia, constipation, or sluggish digestion. It might, however, aggravate heartburn or ulcers, and excessive consumption of bitter melon juice can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Anti-infective/Antiviral
Bitter melon has been used as a treatment for colds, flu, malaria and HIV/AIDs. The antiviral properties of bitter melon against HIV have been demonstrated in a number of studies, although the Bitter Melon Council cautions that "bitter melon is an unlicensed, experimental treatment."
Diabetes
The insulin-lowering properties of bitter melon have been examined in several studies, which have shown that the fruit enhances the uptake of glucose by cells, promoting insulin release and potentiating the effects of insulin. The compounds in bitter melon thought to be responsible for its glucose-lowering qualities are charantin, polypeptide P, and oleanolic acid glycosides. Bitter melon also might help increase the number of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
Cancer
Recent research published in the journal "Cancer Research" indicates that bitter melon extract significantly inhibited the growth of breast cancer cells. Researcher Ratna Ray suggests that bitter melon extract might be an effective dietary supplement for the prevention of breast cancer. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center's website notes that bitter melon's anticancer properties have been demonstrated in studies in both cancer cells and animals.
Other Conditions
Bitter melon also is believed to be effective as a cholesterol-lowering agent and as a treatment for fever, psoriasis and a wide range of other conditions in the various countries where it is used.
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