Therapeutic Properties of Momordica Charantia: In-depth on Antidiabetic and Antitumor Effects
Bitter melon is a plant with many beneficial compounds. It can help with diabetes and controlling blood sugar levels. This plant, from Asia, Africa, and Central Europe, is a climber in the Cucurbitaceae family. It has been studied both in vivo and in vitro.
Nutritional Properties of Bitter Melon
Momordica charantia is a valuable source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Its ripe fruit contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while the seeds are rich in iron, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A, C, and E. However, the active ingredient conferring most of its therapeutic properties is charantin, known for its antidiabetic and hypoglycemic effects.
Antidiabetic Action
Several scientific studies have highlighted the beneficial effects of bitter melon in diabetes control. Research published in journals like the EXCLI Journal and Diabetes Research And Clinical Practice have shown that extracts from this plant can reduce blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in rats with type 1 diabetes. Moreover, Momordica charantia has been associated with an improvement in insulin secretion and intracellular ATP production.
Effects on Female Fertility
A study published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine suggested that extracts from Momordica charantia leaves could increase female fertility by influencing estrogen levels and other reproductive hormones in adult female rats.
Antitumor Potential
Research has also highlighted the chemopreventive potential of bitter melon against skin tumorigenesis and melanoma. A study published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention emphasized the efficacy of Momordica charantia extracts in this context.
Medical Uses in Traditional Folklore
Momordica charantia has a long history of use in traditional medicine. In various cultures including India, Turkey, Cuba, and Puerto Rico, it has been employed to treat a variety of conditions including scabies, rheumatism, liver diseases, peptic ulcers, and mood disorders.
Conclusions
Momordica charantia, or bitter melon, represents a valuable resource for human health, thanks to its multiple therapeutic properties and traditional uses. Scientific studies continue to confirm the benefits of this plant, offering hope for the treatment of conditions such as diabetes, metabolic disorders, and even some forms of cancer. Research continues to explore the potential of Momordica charantia, paving the way for new discoveries in the field of medicine and public health.
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