Bitter Melon (Bitter Gourd, Karela)
Bitter melon (Bitter gourd) is growing its popularity world wide. The reason for this is its potential to reduce the blood sugar levels. Bitter melon has certain properties that are extremely helpful in curbing diabetes mellitus or commonly known as blood sugar. It is an herb that is very much helpful not only in maintaining the normal levels of sugar in the body but is also helpful in maintaining the normal functioning of the body.
It is known as karvelak in Sanskrit and Momordica charantia in botanical terms language. It is also commonly known as karela in India. It is a tendril vine that grows to 4 to 5 meters. The leaves are alternate and are parted by 3 to 8 lobes. The fruit is oblong in appearance and if or green color. The skin is rough and is of barrel shape. In the fruit, seeds are present that are 15 to 25 in number. These are highly bitter in taste.
Benefits of Bitter Melon
Nearly thirty two active constituents have been recognized in bitter melon or karela so far. This includes Beta-sitosterol-d-glucoside, citrulline, GABA particles, lutein, lycopene and zeaxanthin. Dietary analysis exposes that bitter melon or karela is rich in potassium (K), calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), beta-carotene, and vitamins B1 (thiamine), B2, B3 and C or ascorbic acid.
Some sufferers of Type II (non-insulin dependent) diabetes claim bitter Melon or karela helps lower blood sugar levels and bring them back to normal ranges. These claims are backed up by researchers who found patients given momordicin -- the substance derived from Bitter Melon that gives it its bitter taste -- have their blood sugar levels returned to normal.
Bitter Melon on Amazon
HIMALAYA USA, BITTER MELON 60 CAPS
Amazon Price: $7.19 (as of 12/23/2009) 
Bitter Melon 100 Caps ( Powerful Tools For Gentle Healing ) - Pacific Biologic
Amazon Price: $24.95 (as of 12/23/2009)
Bitter Melon Freeze-Dried - 90 - Veg/Cap
Amazon Price: $13.86 (as of 12/23/2009)
More on Bitter Melon
- Bitter Gourd, Karela, Bitter Melon for Diabetes
- Bitter Melon, also known as Bitter Gourd or Karela is a herb that helps regulate blood sugar levels and keeps body functions operating normally. Its principle constituents are lectins, charantin and momordicine. It has well known result in diabetes mellitus.
Ayurveda, Herbs and Massage Therapy
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