Nutrient Profile: Bitter melon (Momordica charantia)By Tori Hudson, NDAbout The Author

Tori Hudson, ND, graduated from the National College of Naturopathic Medicine and has served the college in several capacities, including medical director, associate academic dean, and academic dean. She has been practicing for 26 years, is currently a clinical professor at The National College of Naturopathic Medicine and Bastyr University, is medical director of her clinic in Portland, Oregon, and is director of product research and education for VITANICA. She is the author of the Womens Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, 2nd edition. Hudson serves on several editorial boards, advisory panels, and as a consultant to the natural products industry. For more information, visit www.drtorihudson.com and www.instituteofwomenshealth.com.AbstractBitter melon has many historical and theoretical uses, ranging from an abortifacient to a hemorrhoid treatment. It also has a long history of use as a hypoglycemic agent. Its hypoglycemic effects have been explored to the greatest extent and have aided in our understanding of its pharmacology and mechanism of action, leading to several studies looking at bitter melon as a hypoglycemic agent in type 1 and type 2 diabetes.IntroductionMost clinicians who use botanical medicine likely have some familiarity with Momordica charantia, or bitter melon, but few of us have ever seen this plant as it is cultivated in the tropics, especially of China, India, East Africa, Central and South America and the Caribbean. Bitter melon, a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, is a perennial climbing vine with long leaves, yellow flowers, and elongated fruit that resembles a gourd or cucumber (it is also referred to as bitter gourd or bitter cucumber). In specialty Asian markets, it is known also as karela.Different parts of the plants are used medicinally (ie, leaves, dried or fresh fruit, vine, whole plant, fresh juice) depending on the condition being treated (eg, high blood pressure, diabetes, diarrhea, fever, skin fungal infections, gastrointestinal cramps, psoriasis, hyperlipidemia, hemorrhoids, glaucoma, infertility). Modern research has not investigated the plant in enough detail to differentiate the effects of each part.Not all of bitter melons active constituents have been definitively determined, but we do know that the plant contains alkaloids, glycoside, peptides, acids, cucurbitins, charantin, cucurbitacins, momordine, momorcharins, and proteins.1 It is thought that the primary constituents responsible for the hypoglycemic properties are charantin, insulin-like peptide [plant-(p)-insulin], cucurbutanoids, momordicin, and oleanolic acids.2 The constituents of bitter melon provide a range of pharmacologic effects, including hypoglycemic, antiviral, and antineoplastic activities, but the most compelling area of research is in the field of type 2 diabetes.Bitter melons traditional uses in gynecological and female conditions includes: abortifacient, emmenagogue, galactogogue, aphrodisiac, and in the treatment of female infertility. The leaves, vine, and seeds have all been used for these reproductive indications.3Clinical IndicationsDiabetesThe ability of bitter melon to decrease serum glucose levels has been investigated in animal studies and in a small number of human studies, which will be discussed below. Reductions in blood sugar after taking bitter melon can be seen quicklyas soon as 30 minuteswith the greatest reduction occurring at 4 hours and lasting for 12 hours.A clinical trial that included 9 type 1 diabetics in the treatment group and 10 type 1 and 2 diabetics in the placebo group found that injections of bitter melon extract, isolated for its crystallized p-insulin, resulted in a statistically significant decrease in blood sugar. The effect was noted 3060 minutes after subcutaneous injection, a 21.5% drop from baseline glucose, with a peak effect ranging from 412 hours with a 28% drop after 12 hours.4 This study was not blinded or randomized, and the placebo group had lower average fasting blood glucose at baseline than did the treatment group, all of which may weaken the validity of the results.A small case series study was published in 1981, in which 9 type 2 diabetics had a baseline glucose tolerance test (GTT) before ingesting 50 mL of bitter melon juice extracted from about 200 g of fresh bitter melon fruit, followed by another GTT. Eight to 11 weeks later, after daily ingestion of 0.23 gm of fried bitter melon, they had another GTT.5 One hour after the intake of the fried fruit, the mean drop in glucose was 6% (not statistically significant). One hour after taking the bitter melon juice, there was a mean drop of 12% in the GTT. The mean glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) also dropped by about 8% from baseline after the 811 weeks of fried bitter melon. While the methodology of this study is weak, including lack of controls, the results are important in the effect of bitter melon on type 2 diabetics, for lowering both glucose and HbA1c.Type 2 diabetics were also studied in a case series of 18 patients.6 Each patient was given 100 mL of bitter melon fruit juice 30 minutes before a glucose load and a GTT. Results were compared to each patients own previous GTT taken the day before after drinking just water. A statistically significant improvement was seen in 13 of the 18 patients. While each patient served as his or her own control, there was no true control or randomization.Another uncontrolled trial studied a case series of 12 type 2 diabetics over 3 weeks.7 Each individual was given 1 of 2 preparations: 1) a bitter melon aqueous extract of 100 g of chopped boiled bitter melon in 200 mL of water until it was reduced to 100 mL (given once daily); or 2) 5 g of dried fruit powder (given 3 times daily). After the 21 days, those in the powder group had a 25% reduction in mean blood sugar levels. In the aqueous extract group, there was a significant 54% reduction in mean blood sugar levels, and HbA1c dropped from 8.37 to 6.95. These were promising results, although an uncontrolled study in only 12 patients is not compelling.Lastly, more recently and more importantly, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, trial was done in type 2 diabetics using dried bitter melon fruit and seeds, 3 g/day after meals, for 2 months.8 There was a trend in favor of bitter melon for the reduction of glycosylated hemoglobin, although the study was quite small.Other Potential Uses for Bitter MelonSeveral animal studies have shown significant decreases in triglycerides and LDL cholesterol and increases in HDL cholesterol with bitter melon.913 In the longest study of 10 weeks, bitter melon extract as given to normal and induced type 1 diabetic rats with elevated total cholesterol, triglycerides and decreased HDL.9 All measurements normalized after the 10 weeks in the mice that received the bitter melon as compared to the non-treated rats.In vitro antiviral activity has been observed with bitter melon seeds and its inhibitory effects on HIV integrating into host cells.14 In vitro research has also demonstrated reduced rates of T lymphocyte infections with HIV-1 and reduced viral replication in infected cells.15,16 Other antimicrobial effects have been observed in vitro as well. Bitter melon extracts have been shown to inhibit the growth of Herpes simplex17 and Epstein Barr virus.18Several animal studies have shown significant decreases in triglycerides and LDL cholesterol and increases in HDL cholesterol with bitter melon.There have been some reported antineoplastic effects in vitro,19,20 and bitter melon may potentiate the function of natural killer cells.21,22 A protein isolated from bitter melon extract, MAP30, appears to be the constituent with the antineoplastic activity, and its mechanisms have been attributed to reducing the expression of growth factor receptors. There has been 1 published case report of a patient with gallbladder cancer who consumed bitter melon tea daily and lived 8 years beyond her life expectancy.23 In the case report it was noted that she discontinued the bitter melon tea for several months, during which time the cancer recurred and was the cause of her death.Bitter melon has been shown to have a positive effect on hemorrhoids. A water extract of bitter melon leaves was compared with 4 other herbal therapies in a study of 326 hemorrhoid patients, including some with anal prolapse.24 As a digestive stimulant, it is thought that bitter melon improves digestion, thus resulting in an improvement in hemorrhoids. Bitter melon did not improve anal prolapse in this study.DosageThe most appropriate or effective dose of bitter melon is not entirely clear. Powdered, dried fruit has been dosed in a range of 315 g/day. The fresh juice has been used at 50100 mL/day, and an aqueous decoction of the fruit has ranged from 100 to 200 mL per day. Standardized extract dosing ranges from 100 to 200 mg 3 times daily.Adverse effects, cautions, contraindicationsBitter melon has a long history of safe and effective use as a hypoglycemic agent in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. It is considered safe as an oral hypoglycemic agent, but blood glucose monitoring should follow. Bitter melon should be avoided in pregnant women, as it may cause a miscarriage, based on historical use and animal data. Bitter melon seeds contain momorcharin, which have been shown to have antifertility effects in female mice and spermatogenesis inhibition in dogs. A decline of fertility from 90% down to 20% was seen in mice fed daily bitter melon juice.25 Midterm miscarriages were induced in mice who were given isolated momorcharins from bitter melon.26 Also of concern is that bitter melon juice (6mL/kg) caused uterine hemorrhage and death in 2 pregnant rabbits, no uterine hemorrhage in nonpregnant rabbits, and death within 23 days in rabbits continuously fed bitter melon juice.27Bitter melon extract, 1.75 g/day was also given to dogs for 60 days. After 60 days the dogs had no sperm.28 However, in a a laboratory study, the bitter melon constituent MAP30 had no toxic effects on human sperm cells or motility at doses 1,000 times greater than the doses that inhibited HIV-1 and Herpes simplex.29Two case reports in children resulted in hypoglycemic coma after bitter melon tea, and therefore use in children should be avoided until further research is done.Bitter melon may cause allergic reactions in people with allergy or hypersensitivity to members of the Cucurbitaceae family (gourds and melons). While no reports of favism (hemolytic anemia caused by deficiency of glucose-6-phosphate deficiency) have been recorded, bitter melon seeds should likely be avoided by those individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency because of the vicine or vicine-like compound found in bitter melon seeds. Vicin is a compound that can induce favism.Due to its hypoglycemic effects, bitter melon may have additive effects when taken with other blood glucose-lowering agents. Simple familiar testing and monitoring will ensure safe use of bitter melon preparations.SummaryType 2 diabetes mellitus is rapidly becoming a dominant disease not only in the United States, but around the world. The World Health Organization reports that worldwide, the number of people with type 2 diabetes is 240 million; the International Diabetes Foundation reports 285 millionand thats not counting the more than 400 million with pre-diabetes. It is predicted that each year, an additional 810 million will develop the disease. Leading the way are India, China, and the United States.Bitter melon has emerged as one of our strongest botanical interventions for improving blood glucose and HbA1c. The science and native wisdom behind the plant show its value in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus. Combining the use of bitter melon with dietary advice, exercise, lifestyle changes, nutraceuticals, and, if necessary, conventional medicine, can create a comprehensive diabetic treatment strategy.References1. Torres W. Momordica charantia Linn. Chemistry and pharmacology. Paper presented at: American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine; December 2004; Las Vegas, NV.2. Harinantenaina L, Tanaka M, Takaoka S, et al. Momordica charantia constituents and antidiabetic screening of the isolated major compounds. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo). 2006;54:1017-1021.3. Cunnick J, Takemoto D. Bitter melon. J Naturopath Med. 1993;4(1):16-21.4. Baldwa V, Bhandari C, Pangaria A, Goyal R. Clinical trial in patients with diabetes mellitus of an insulin-like compound obtained from plant sources.Upsala J Med. 1977;82:39-41.5. Leatherdale B, Panesar R, Singh G, et al. Improvement in glucose tolerance due to Momordica charantia (karela). Br Med J (Clin Res Ed). 1981;282(6279):1823-1824.6. Welihinda J, Karunanayake e, Sheriff M, et al. Effect of Momordica charantia on the glucose tolerance in maturity onset diabetes. J Ethnopharmacol. 1986;17(3):277-282.7. Srivastava Y. Antidiabetic and adaptogenic properties of Momordica charantia extract: an experimental and clinical evaluation. Phytother Res. 1993;7:285-289.8. Dans A, Villarruz M, Jimeno C, et al. The effet of Momordica charantia capsule preparation on glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus needs further studies.J Clin Epidemiol. 2007;60(6):554-559.9. Chaturvedi P, George S, Milinganyo M, Tripathi Y. Effect of Momordica charantia on lipid profile and oral glucose tolerance in diabetic rats. Phytothera Res. 2004;18:954-56.10. Ahmed I, Lakhani M, Gillett M, et al. Hypotriglyceridemic and hypocholesterolemic effects of anti-diabetic Momordica charantia (karela) fruit extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 2001;51:155-61.11. Chaturvedi P. Role of Momordica charantia in maintaining the normal levels of lipids and glucose in diabetic rats fed a high - fat and low-carbohydrate diet. Br J Biomed Sci. 2005;62:124-26.12. Chen Q, Li E. Reduced adiposity in bitter melon (Momordica charantia) fed rats is associated with lower tissue triglycride and higher plasma catecholamines. Br J Nutr. 2005;93:747-54.13. Senanayake G, Maruyama M, Sakono M, et al. The effects of bitter melon )Momordica charantia) extracts on serum and liver lipid parameters in hamsters fed cholesterol-free and cholesterol-enriched diets. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol. 2004;50:253-57.14. Wang Y, Neamati N, Jacob J, et al. Solution structure of anti-HIV-1 and anti-tumor protein MAP30: structural insights into its multiple functions. Cell. 1999;99(4):433-42.15. Lee-Huang S, Huang P, Chen H, et al. Anti-HIV and anti-tumor activities of recombinant MAP30 from bitter melon. Gene. 1995;161(2):151-56.16. Lee-Huang S, Huang P, Huang P, et al. Inhibition of the integrase of HIV type 1 by anti-HIV plant proteins MAP30 and GAP31. Proc Natl Acad Sci. SUA 1995;92(19):8818-22.17. Bourinbaiar A, Lee-Huang S. The activity of plant-deried antiretroviral protesins MAP30 and GAP31 against Herpes simplex virus in vitro. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 1996;219:923-29.18. Tropical Plant Database, Raintree Nutrition. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Bitter melon. July 2, 2007.19. Lee-Huang S, Huang P, Sun Y, et al. Inhibition of MDA-MB-231 human breast tumor xenografts and HER2 expression by anti-tumor agents GAP31 and MAP30. Anticancer Res. 2000;20(2A): 653-59.20. Bourinbaiar A, Lee-Huang S. The activity of plant-derived antiretroviral proteins MAP30 and GAP31 against herpes simplex virus in vitro. Biochem Biphys Res Commun. 1996;219(3):923-29.21. Pongnikorn S, Fongmoon D, Kasinrerk W, et al. Effect of bitter melon on level and function of natural killer cells in cervical cancer patients with radiotherapy. J Med Assoc Thai. 2003;86(1):61-8.22. Cunnick J, Sakamoto K, Chapes S, et al. Induction of tumor cytotoxic immune cells using a protein from the bitter melon. Cell Immunol. 1990;126(2):278-89.23. West M, Sidrak G, Street S. The anti-growth properties of extracts from Momordica charantia L. West Indian Med J. 1971;20(1):25-4.24. Olapade E. Clinical evaluation of Rauvolfia vomitoria based extrac tin the treatment of hemorrhoids and anal proloapse in Nigeeria. First world congress on medicinal and aromatic plants for human welfare. Acta Horticulturae. 1993;332:281-85.25. Stepka W, Wilson K, Madge G. Antifertility investigation on Momordica. Lloydia J Nat Prod 1974;37(4):345.26. Chan W, Tam P, Yeung H. The termination of early pregnancy in the mouse by beta-momorcharin. Contraception. 1984;29(1):91-100.27. Sharma V, Sogani R, Arora R. Some observations on hypoglycaemic activity of Momordica charantia.Indian J Med Res. 1960;48(4):471-77.28. Dixit V, Khanna P, Bhargava S. Effects of Momordica charantia L. fruit extract on the testicular function of dog. Planta Med. 1978; 34(3):280-86.29. Schreiber C, Wan L, Sun Y, et al. The antiviral agents, MAP20 and GAP31, are not toxic to human spermatozoa and may be useful in preventing the sexual transmission of human immunodeficie3ncy virus type 1. Fertil Steril. 1999;72(4):686-90.Momordica charantia (bitter melon) is commonly known as vegetable insulin, but the mechanisms underlying its Hypoglycemic effect remain unclear. To address this issue, the effects of Bitter melon extracts on postprandial glycemic responses have been investigated in rats. An aqueous extract (AE), methanol fraction (MF) and methanol insoluble fraction (MIF) were prepared from Bitter melon. An oral Sucrose tolerance test revealed that administration of AE, MF or MIF each significantly suppressed plasma Glucose levels at 30 min as compared with the control. In addition, the plasma Insulin level at 30 min was also significantly lower after MF administration than in the control in the oral Sucrose tolerance test. By contrast, these effects of bitter melon extracts were not observed in the oral Glucose tolerance test. In terms of mechanism, bitter melon extracts dose-dependently inhibited the sucrase activity of intestinal mucosa with IC(50) values of 8.3, 3.7 and 12.0 mg/mL for AE, MF and MIF, respectively. The fraction with a molecular weight of less than 1,300 (LT 1,300) obtained from MF inhibited the sucrase activity most strongly in an uncompetitive manner with an IC(50) value of 2.6 mg/mL. Taken together, these results demonstrated that bitter melon suppressed postprandial hyperglycemia by inhibition of alpha-glucosidase activity and that the most beneficial component is present in the LT 1,300 fraction obtained from MF. Publication: Journal of nutritional science and vitaminology Publication Date: 2007 Study Author(s): Uebanso, Takashi;Arai, Hidekazu;Taketani, Yutaka;Fukaya, Makiko;Yamamoto, Hironori;Mizuno, Akira;Uryu, Keisuke;Hada, Takahiko;Takeda, Eiji; Institution: Department of Clinical Nutrition, University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan. Shortcut link to this study: http://science.naturalnews.com/pubmed/18202535.html

J Adv Pharm Technol Res. 2010 Oct-Dec; 1(4): 415418. doi: 10.4103/0110-5558.76441PMCID: PMC3255405Analgesic and antipyretic activities of Momordica charantia Linn. fruitsRoshan Patel, Naveen Mahobia, Nitin Upwar, Naheed Waseem, Hetal Talaviya, and Zalak PatelShree Leuva Patel Trust Pharmacy Mahila College, Amreli, Gujarat, IndiaAddress for correspondence: Mr. Roshan Patel, Department of Pharmacognosy, Shree Leuva Patel Trust Pharmacy Mahila College, Patel Sankul, Chakkargadh Road, Amreli 365 601, Gujarat, India. E-mail: moc.liamg@gc.nahsorAuthor information Copyright and License information Copyright : Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology & ResearchThis is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0 Unported, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.This article has been cited by other articles in PMC.Go to:AbstractPlant Momordica charantia Linn. belongs to family Cucurbitaceae. It is known as bitter gourd in English and karela in Hindi. Earlier claims show that the plant is used in stomachic ailments as a carminative tonic; as an antipyretic and antidiabetic agent; and in rheumatoid arthritis and gout. The fruit has been claimed to contain charantin, steroidal saponin, momordium, carbohydrates, mineral matters, ascorbic acid, alkaloids, glucosides, etc. The ethanolic extract of the fruit showed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, glycosides, steroids, proteins, and carbohydrates. The present study was carried out using acetic acid-induced writhing and tail-immersion tests in mice, while yeast-induced pyrexia in rats. The ethanolic extracts (250 and 500 mg/kg, po.) showed an analgesic and antipyretic effect, which was significantly higher than that in the control rats. The observed pharmacological activities provide the scientific basis to support traditional claims as well as explore some new and promising leads.Keywords: Analgesic, antipyretic, Momordica charantiaGo to:INTRODUCTIONPain is an ill-defined, unpleasant, sensation usually evoked by an external or internal noxious stimulus. It is a warning signal and primarily protective in nature, but causes discomfort. Analgesics are the drugs that selectively relieve pain by acting on the CNS (central nervous system) or on peripheral pain mechanisms, without significantly altering consciousness. Plant Momordica charantia Linn., known as bitter gourd in English, belongs to family Cucurbitaceae. It is cultivated throughout India, Malaya, China, Tropical Africa, and America. Earlier claims showed that its bitter fruits have carminative, aphrodisiac, and anthelmintic properties, and are used in syphilis, rheumatism, troubles of spleen, and ophthalmia. It is also useful in piles, leprosy, jaundice, and also used as a vermifuge.[1] Upon a literature review, it was found that the plant contains moisture (83.2%), proteins (2.9%), fat (1.0%), carbon (9.8%), fibers (1.7%), mineral matters (1.4%), calcium, phosphorus, iron, carotene, thiamine, nicotinic acid, riboflavin, ascorbic acid (88 mg/100 g), copper, and potassium.[2] Charantin, -sitosterol-glucoside, stigmast-5, 25-dien-3 -O-glucoside, stigmast-7,25-dien-3 -ol, and stigmast-7, 22,25-trien-3 -ol are isolated from the fruit.[3] Many pharmacological properties have been reported including antioxidant,[4] adipogenesis-reducing,[5] antilipolytic,[6] hypoglycemic,[7] antidiabetic,[8] anticancer,[9] antifertility,[10] antigenotoxic,[11] anthelmintic,[12] antimicrobial,[13] antiviral,[14] and hepatoprotective activity.[15] However, there are no reports to our knowledge on its analgesic and antipyretic activities. Hence, the present study was undertaken to investigate the analgesic and antipyretic potential of the ethanolic and aqueous fruit extract of M. charantia Linn. in experimental animal models.Go to:MATERIALS AND METHODSAll the ingredients and chemicals were of analytical grade and purchased from Loba Chemie Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai.Collection of Plant MaterialsA healthy fruit was purchased from a medicinal plant supplier, Hakimm's Brother, Savarkundala (Gujarat) in the month of July 2009. It was identified and authenticated by Dr. A. S. Reddy, taxonomist, Bioscience Department, S. P. University, Vallabh Vidyanagar, Gujarat, India.Preparation of the Plant ExtractThe powdered fruit was extracted with ethanol by the Soxhlet apparatus. The solvent was concentrated by evaporating ethanol using a rotary evaporator.[16] The M. charantia ethanol extract (MC-EE) was further concentrated by allowing it to stand overnight in an oven at 30C.Phytochemical TestsThe MC-EE was subjected to preliminary, qualitative, phytochemical investigation.[17]Animals UsedWistar rats, weighing 200220 g, and Swiss albino mice, weighing 1825 g, of either sex were procured from the animal house of the Shree Leuva Patel Trust Pharmacy Mahila College, Amreli, Gujarat, India. All the animals were kept in standard polypropylene cages under standard conditions: temperature (241C), relative humidity (4555%), and a 12:12 light:dark cycle. The animals were fed a standard rodent diet, and water was given ad libitum. The animals were allowed to acclimatize to laboratory conditions 48 h before the start of the experiment. The experimental protocol is duly approved by the institutional ethical committee (reg. no. 949/a/06/CPCSEA).Acute Toxicity StudySix Wistar rats (200220 g) and six albino mice (18-25 g) of either sex were dosed with MC-EE extracts in different concentrations and were observed for any symptoms of toxicity for 48 h as per guideline no. 425 (OECD 2001), and LD50 was estimated to be >5000 mg/kg. Based on the results obtained from this study, the doses of further pharmacological studies were fixed to be 250 and 500 mg/kg.[18]Analgesic ActivitiesAcetic acid-induced writhing Mice were divided into four groups each consisting of six mice. They were starved for 18 h. The treatment regimen was as follows:1. Group I (control): Vehicle (3 ml/kg, po.), 1% suspension of Tween-802. Group II (standard): Aspirin (150 mg/kg, po.)3. Group III (test 1): Ethanolic fruit extract (500 mg/kg, po.)4. Group IV (test 2): Ethanolic fruit extract (250 mg/kg, po.).After half an hour, all mice received a 0.7% aqueous solution of acetic acid 10 mg/kg, ip., and writhings were counted for 10 min after the acid injection.[19]Acetic acid-induced writhing test

Tail-immersion method Mice were divided into four groups each consisting of six mice. The treatment regimen was as follows:1. Group I (control): Vehicle (3 ml/kg, po.), 1% suspension of Tween-802. Group II (standard): Pentazocine (30 mg/kg, po.)3. Group III (test 1): Ethanolic fruit extract (500 mg/kg, po.)4. Group IV (test 2): Ethanolic fruit extract (250 mg/kg, po.).The distal part of the tails of the animals was immersed in hot water maintained at 55.01.0C. The time taken to withdraw the tail was noted as the reaction time. A cut-off time of 10 s was maintained at 55C to prevent tissue damage. The reaction time was checked at 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 min, respectively, after treatment.[19]Antipyretic ActivityRats were divided into four groups each consisting of six rats. The test was performed in rats by injecting 10 ml/kg sc. of the 15% aqueous solution of Brewer's yeast to induce pyrexia. The rectal temperature of each animal was taken before and 24 h after the yeast injection using a digital clinical thermometer. Animals that did not show a minimum increase of 0.7C in the temperature 24 h after the yeast injection were discarded. The selected animals were divided into four groups and treated as follows:1. Group I (control): Vehicle (3 ml/kg, po.), 1% suspension of Tween-802. Group II (standard): Paracetamol (20 mg/kg, ip.)3. Group III (test 1): Ethanolic fruit extract (500 mg/kg, po.)4. Group IV (test 2): Ethanolic fruit extract (250 mg/kg, po.).The rectal temperature of each animal was again recorded at 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 h after treatment.[20]Statistical AnalysisData were subjected to statistical analysis using ANOVA, and statistical comparison was done using the TukeyKramer multiple comparison test. Values of P5000 mg/kg.Effect on acetic acid writhingThe ethanolic extracts (500 and 250 mg/kg, po.) significantly reduced the acetic acid-induced writhing by 59.99% and 51.22%, respectively [Table 1].

Table 1Effect of ethanolic extracts of the Momordica charantia fruit in acetic acid-induced writhing in miceEffect on the tail-immersion testEthanolic extracts (500 and 250 mg/kg, po.) induced significant protection [Table 2] in rats in tail-immersion tests, with the ethanolic extracts (500 mg/kg) being more active compared to the standard drug pentazocine (30 mg/kg, po.).

Table 2Effect of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of the Plectranthus amboinicus leaf on tail-immersion tests in miceAntipyretic EffectBoth the extracts showed a marked antipyretic effect [Table 3] by causing a reduction in yeast-induced fever. The ethanolic extract (500 mg/kg) showed the effect to the same degree as paracetamol (20 mg/kg, ip.).

Table 3Effect of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of the Plectranthus amboinicus leaf on yeastinduced pyrexia in ratsGo to:DISCUSSIONSeveral experimentally induced laboratory models were employed in evaluating the analgesic and antipyretic activities of ethanolic extracts of M. charantia. It is necessary to apply tests which differ with respect to stimulus quality, intensity, and duration, to obtain as complete a picture as possible of the analgesic properties of a substance using behavioural nociceptive tests. The results obtained showed that the ethanolic extracts possess a significant analgesic effect on the various pain models used. A significant inhibitory effect was shown by both the extracts in the writhing test (a test useful for evaluating mild analgesic, nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory agents). This suggests that the analgesic effect of the extract may be peripherally mediated. The extracts also showed a significant effect in the tail-immersion tests (centrally acting analgesic drugs elevate the pain threshold of animals toward heat and pressure). The effect of the extracts on this pain model indicates that it might be centrally acting.[20]The extract caused a better hypothermal activity against yeast-induced pyrexia in rats. The subcutaneous injection of yeast induces pyrexia by increasing the synthesis of prostaglandin and is used to screen agents for an antipyretic effect.[19]The analgesic and antipyretic activity of M. charantia Linn. may be due to the individual or combined action of bioactive constituents present in it. The findings will be helpful for further phytochemical and pharmacodynamic investigations to find the active constituents responsible for the activity, which may explore some new and promising leads.Go to:ACKNOWLEDGMENTThe author's grateful to the Principal and Management, Shree Leuva Patel Trust Pharmacy Mahila College, Amreli, for extending laboratory competence and for their material support.Go to:FootnotesSource of Support: NilConflict of Interest: Nil.Go to:REFERENCES1. Kirtikar KR, Basu BD. Indian Medicinal Plants. 2nd ed. Vol. 2. Dehradun: International Book Distributors; 2006. p. 1130.

What is bitter melonScientific Name : Momordica Charantia

Common Names: Bitter melon, papailla, melao de sao caetano, bittergourd, sorosi, a'jayib al maasi, assorossie, balsam apple, balsam pear, chin li chih, ejinrin gule khandan, fu-kua, karela,k'u kua kurela, kor-kuey, ku gua, lai p'u t'ao, pava-aki, salsamino, sorci, sorossi, sorossie, sorossies, pare, peria laut, peria, bitter melon Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) also known as bitter gourd is a tropical and subtropical vine of the family Cucurbitaceae, widely grown in the Amazon, Carribean and Southeast Asia for its edible fruit. Bitter melon as the name implies has a bitter taste due to the presence of momordicin, and is believed to be among the most bitter of all vegetables. The unripe green bitter melon fruit is harvested and cooked for consumption in Asian and Indian cuisines. Bitter melon can be sliced and stirred fried, mixed with meat and boiled as soup, mixed with curry or stuffed with spices and fried in deep oil.Bitter Melon DescriptionBitter melon is a climbing vine that grows up to 5 meters, with tendrils up to 20cm. long. Bitter melon leaves are heart-shaped, 5-10 cm across, cut into 5-7 lobes. Each bitter melon plant bears separate yellow male and female flowers. The fleshy green fruit of bitter melon is oblong shaped with pointed ends, ribbed and wrinkled, bursting when mature to release seeds. While bitter melon seeds are flat with ruminated margins.

Bitter Melon Health BenefitsBitter Melon (Momordica charantia) has been a folkloric cure for generations but has now been proven to be an effective herbal medicine for many aliments. Many medical researches have supported bitter melon (Momordica Charantia) as an alternative herbal medicine for liver problems. Research has shown that among the many health benefits of bitter melon, the most important is its effect of increasing the production of beta cells by the pancreas, thereby improving the bodys ability to produce insulin - apeptide hormone that is central to regulating carbohydrateandfatmetabolism in the body. Other studies also suggest that bitter melon extract has anti-cancer activity in human cell lines.

Another health benefit from bitter melon is that it is rich in vitamins and minerals. The leaves and fruits are excellent sources of vitamin B, iron, calcium, and phosphorus. Bitter melon is also rich in beta carotene.Other health benefits of bitter melon as herbal medicine is for the treatment of diabetes, HIV, coughs, skin diseases, sterility in women, parasiticide, antipyretic and as purgative among others.

Folkloric Health Benefits of Bitter MelonHealth benefits of juice extract from bitter melon fruit. Used to treat diabetes Used to treat stomach problems such as colitis, dysentery and intestinal parasites Used to treat spleen and liver problems Used to treat mild cough, heal wounds, and to treat rheumatism and gout.Health benefits from bitter melon leaves. Powered leaves used as astringent to treat haemorrhoids and piles Sap or juice of leaves used to treat skin problems such as eczema, acne, psoriasis, leprosy and scabies Pounded leaves used to treat for burns and scald Infusion of leaves used to treat fever Infusion used to treat various stomach problems and to improve appetite Poultice of leaves used to treat headache Infusion of leaves used as mouthwash to treat tooth ache and other mouth problemsHealth benefits from bitter melon seeds, roots and flowers. Decoction of seeds and roots used to treat urethral discharge Roots are used as an ingredient in aphrodisiac preparations Decoction of roots used to abort pregnancy Infusion from bitter melon flower is used to treat asthmaHow is it taken?Bitter melon green fruit and young leaves are cooked, taken as food and is included in diet during treatment.Juice extract from bitter melon fruit or leaves are taken spoonful for adults and teaspoonful for children. 3 times a day until symptoms improve.Decoction prepared by boiling 50 grams of chopped fruits, seeds, leaves and/or roots of bitter melon to a liter of water, taken as bitter melon tea three times a day until symptoms improve.

Researches for Health Benefits of Bitter MelonBitter Melon Health Benefits for DiabetesClinical Studies for bitter melon demonstrated hypoglycemic properties (blood sugar lowering) or other actions of potential benefit against diabetes mellitus. The hypoglycemic chemicals found in bitter Melon include a mixture of steroidal saponins known as charantins, insulin-like peptides, and alkaloids. The anti-diabetic effect is more pronounced in the fruit of bitter melon where these chemicals are in greater abundance. The bitte melon fruit has also shown the ability to enhance cells uptake of glucose, to promote insulin release, and potentiate the effect of insulin. In other in vivo studies, bitter melon fruit and/or seed has been shown to reduce total cholesterol and triglycerides in both the presence and absence of dietary cholesterol. In one study, elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels in diabetic rats were returned to normal after 10 weeks of treatment. (Source: Journal of Chemistry and Biology, March 2008)Anti-obesity and Antidiabetic Health Benefits of Bitter Melon Juice A study done in The College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, University of Hawaii to investigate the effects of bitter melon juice on lipid accumulation and adipocyte differentiation transcription factors in primary human differentiating preadipocytes and adipocytes. has shown that preadipocytes treated with varying concentrations of bitter melon juice during differentiation demonstrated significant reduction in lipid content with a concomitant reduction in mRNA expression of adipocyte transcription factors. Similarly, adipocytes treated with bitter melon juice for 48 hours demonstrated reduced lipid content, perilipin mRNA expression, and increased lipolysis as measured by the release of glycerol. This study suggests that bitter melon juice is a potent inhibitor of lipogenesis and stimulator of lipolysis activity in human adipocytes. Bitter melon juice may therefore prove to be an effective complementary or alternative therapy to reduce adipogenesis in humans. (Source: BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2010, 10:34)Bitter Melon Health Benefits for Colon CancerA study done in University of Kansas Medical Center had determined the efficacy of methanolic extracts of bitter melon on colon cancer stem and progenitor cells. Results have shown that the methanolic bitter melon extracts showed significant inhibition of cell proliferation and colony formation. In addition, the cells were arrested at the S phase of cell cycle. Moreover, bitter melon extract induced the cleavage of LC3B but not caspase 3/7, suggesting that the cells were undergoing autophagy and not apoptosis. Bitter melon extract reduced cellular ATP levels coupled with activation of AMP activated protein kinase; on the other hand, exogenous additions of ATP lead to revival of cell proliferation. Finally, BMW treatment results in a dose-dependent reduction in the number and size of colonospheres. The extracts also decreased the expression of DCLK1 and Lgr5, markers of quiescent, and activated stem cells. Taken together, these results suggest that the extracts of bitter melon can be an effective preventive/therapeutic agent for colon cancer. (Source: Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine Journal. 2013)Anti-cancer Health Benefits of Bitter Melon Methanol ExtractA study done in Tzu Chi University in Taiwan explored the potential effectiveness of Momordica charantia (Bitter Melon) against human cancer cell lines. Methanol extract of bitter melon was used to evaluate the cytotoxic activity on four human cancer cell lines, Hone-1 nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells, AGS gastric adenocarcinoma cells, HCT-116 colorectal carcinoma cells, and CL1-0 lung adenocarcinoma cells. The methanol extract of bitter melon showed cytotoxic activity towards all cancer cells tested, with the approximate IC(50) ranging from 0.25 to 0.35mg/mL at 24 h. Methanol extract of bitter melon induced cell death was found to be time-dependent in these cells. The apoptogenic protein, Bax, was increased, whereas Bcl-2 was decreased after treating for 24h in all cancer cells, indicating the involvement of mitochondrial pathway in methanol extract of bitter melon -induced cell death. These findings indicate that methanol extract of bitter melon has cytotoxic effects on human cancer cells and exhibits promising anti-cancer activity by triggering apoptosis through the regulation of caspases and mitochondria. (Source: Evidence Based Complementart Alternative Medicine. 2012Bitter Melon Side EffectsIn large dozes, pure bitter melon juice can be purgative and may cause abortion of pregnancy.

Side Effects of Bitter Melon and WarningsBitter melon as the name implies has bitter taste.Bitter melon being a natural fruit and a vegetable is considered safe at moderate consumption as food.Bitter Melon Side EffectsBitter melon extract or juice, when taken at large dosage may cause abortion of pregnancy.Bitter melon extract when taken at large dosage may lower blood sugar level. Consult your doctor when you are taking other antidiabetes medications.

bitter melon Preparation and Availability Bitter Melon for Cooking. bitter melon fruits and leaves are usually available in Asian or Chinese markets. They can be bought fresh by the kilo, per piece or by bundles. Bitter melon are cooked, usually mixed other vegentable spices and meat. To lessen the bitterness of the bitter melon, slices are washed or even boiled in water with salt.. Powdered Bitter Melon, Powdered leaves and root decoction of bitter melon are applied to hemorrhoids as astringent. Wash dried bitter melon leaves with fresh water. Pound to powder. You can use carrier oils to mix with the powder for application. Bitter Melon Juice. Bitter melon leaves and fruit (without the seeds) are pounded and juiced to extract concentrated juice. Bitter melon juice is then added to other plesant tasting juice for drinking Bitter Melon Capsules, Bitter melon, as its name implies, is quite bitter, which is why many often prefer to take capsules and tablets. Ready-made bitter melon extracts are available in capsules and tablets in many Asian markets, herb shops, and in the supplement department of health food stores. Look for standardized extracts (to 10% charantin for instance) or concentrated whole fruit extracts (4:1 or 5:1) to help insure sufficient activity. If you are in US, Canada or UK, where Asian or Chinese health shops may not be available. Amazon.com provides an alternative. look for products that have favorable customers reviews such as Bitter Melon GOLD It is naturally extracted without the use of toxic solvents, harsh chemicals or gases to ensure all the active and synergistic constituents are present in the balanced ratio nature intended. While this is highly popular brand, stocks are usually low and if you find there is stock, order the soonest time.

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Medical Uses of Ampalaya Herbal Medicine includes treatment of diabetes, coughs, skin burns and scaldBanaba Herbal Medicine for Diabetes Banaba contains corosolic acid that is used for the treatment of diabetes...Ampalaya, also called Bitter Gourd or Bitter melon, is an abundant vegetable that is famous to every Filipino. A tropical plant commonly grown for its edible fruit, probably among the most bitter of all vegetables on earth which is use widely for medicinal purposes in the Philippines to treat some common ailments particularly diabetes.Ampalaya is known to alleviate the symptoms of rheumatism and gout, as well as lowering the body blood sugar and blood pressure levels.Below are some beneficial aspects of using bitter melon: As a treatment of intestinal worms and diarrhea. Enhancing the bodys immune system. Serves as an effective antioxidant, antipyretic agent and antibacterial. Disinfect and heal cut, burns and wound. Cough and fever remedy Cancer preventionIn the Philippines, ampalaya leaves are mostly applied for childrens cough, infertility in women, as a purgative and medication for skin ailments. It is also beneficial for women as it help to cure some tumor in the uterus, dysmenorhea and hormonal imbalance. A cup of pounded leaves of ampalaya, mix with sambong juice is required to consume on or before your menstruation and bloods will flow continuously.According to Filipinos belief, when ampalaya juice taken was made from leaves, parasites within the body are extracted. However, both leaves and fruits can be juiced and taken orally. In addition, a warmed ampalaya leaves can also be applied to treat wounds, burns and headaches as well as on some skin infections. A spoonful ampalaya leaf juice is also use to alleviate mild coughs for children when taken daily. And is as well agreeable treatment for burns, wounds and scalds.Ampalaya juice was found to be most significant for diabetes as it lowers the blood sugar in the body. A juice from the fruit which has hypoglycemic effects has a greater copious supply which enhances the uptake of glucose and promotes insulin release.Problems in your tummy can also be treated by ampalaya juice, as it expels intestinal parasites, diarrhea, chronic colitis and dysentery. In a spoonful take 3 times a day until ailment subsides.How to make Ampalaya Juice:1. Select firm and light green in color of ampalaya.2. Cut the ampalaya lengthwise and remove the seeds.3. Chop the ampalaya into 1 inch cubes.4. Place ampalaya cubes in the food processor and process using the pulse function. In case your food processor doesnt have pulse button, process on high for a few seconds at a time.5. Scrape the sides of the food processor as needed and pulse again until ampalaya is liquefied.6. Place the cheesecloth over a bowl and pour the liquefied ampalaya into the cloth to strain out the solids.7. Squeeze to release as much juice as possible into the bowl.8. Store ampalaya juice in a closed glass container in the refrigerator. It can be use for a week.Taking juice made from ampalaya also helps to treat constipation, which is mainly cause by unhealthy eating habits and daily dietary practices. It helps improve the movement of the gastrointestinal tract as well as improving absorption in the intestines.As its herbal benefits continue, did you know that ampalaya is also a competent digestive agent? Definitely it works, by properly stimulating the secretion of gastric juices. It as well aids in stimulating the liver for proper secretion of bile juices that are essential for the metabolism of fats in our body.Aside from its extreme medicinal value, it is also a great source of iron, phosphorous, calcium, vitamins A, B, and C.Ampalaya is nutritious. It is noted effective in resolving variety of common ailments. So, add them to your diet for better health!This entry was posted in Natural Remedies and tagged Ampalaya, Bitter Gourd, Bitter melon, Momordica charantia. Bookmark the permalink. Calamansi Juice Health BenefitsOregano Leaves Health Benefits