Karela - Momordica charantia

Karela (Momordica charantia) is a tropical and subtropical vine that bears warty, elongated green fruits. It is cultivated across Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. The fruit, leaves, and seeds of bitter melon are commonly used in traditional medicine and culinary applications.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Angiosperms
Class: Eudicots
Order: Cucurbitales
Family: Cucurbitaceae
Genus: Momordica
Order: Cucurbitales
Species: Momordica charantia

Common Names

English: Bitter Melon, Bitter Gourd
Sanskrit: Karavellaka
Hindi: Karela
Tamil: Pavakkai
Telugu: Kakarakaya
Bengali: Korola
Marathi: Karle

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

Anti-Diabetic Properties - Contains charantin and polypeptide-p, which help in lowering blood sugar levels.

Digestive Health - Acts as a natural laxative, aiding in digestion and preventing constipation.

Liver Health - Supports liver detoxification and protects against fatty liver disease

Immune System Booster - Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, enhancing immunity and fighting infections.

Phytochemical Constituents

Flavonoids: Quercetin, Kaempferol

Alkaloids: Momordicine I & II

Triterpenoids: Charantin, Cucurbitacin

Steroidal Saponins: Momordicosides

Proteins & Peptides: Polypeptide-P (plant insulin)

References

Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Govt. of India.

Sharangdhar Samhita, Chapter on Herbal Remedies.

Grover, J.K., Yadav, S.P. (2004). "Pharmacological actions and potential uses of Momordica charantia: A review." Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 93(1), 123-132.

European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.

Joseph, B., Jini, D. (2013). "A medicinal potency of Momordica charantia: A review." International Journal of Nutrition, Pharmacology, Neurological Diseases, 3(2), 78-83.

Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. CSIR, New Delhi.