Bitter melon: an exotic vegetable with medicinal values

Abstract

Purpose This article focuses on some of the reported medicinal values of bitter melon, an exotic vegetable forming part of the cuisine of various countries. Design/methodology/approach Available data in the literature strongly support the anti‐hypoglycaemic properties of Bitter melon. A literature view was carried out and the data were used to validate our findings regarding the effects of extracts of Momordica charantia on uptake of sugar. Findings Our work adds on to the growing evidence of the anti‐diabetic properties of bitter melon. Practical implications In view of evidence reported in the literature regarding the medicinal properties of vegetables, the importance of vegetables in a well balanced diet should therefore be strongly advocated. Originality/value This paper adds on to the evidence of the use of Momordica charantia as a medicinal plant in traditional medicine in the control of blood sugar level.