Momordica charantia L.: Unlocking its Potential as a Nutritional Food Through Ethnomedicinal and Pharmacological Properties

The plant known as Momordica charantia L. or bitter melon, has been cultivated for centuries due to its recognized pharmacological and nutritional properties. This plant, belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family, contains a diverse range of bioactive compounds, some of which exhibit potent biological effects. As a result, bitter melon has been utilized in traditional medicine around the world, primarily for managing diabetes, as well as addressing conditions such as cancer and inflammation-related diseases. Many studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of bitter melon extracts in lowering blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. However, most of the research that is currently available on bitter melon’s bioactive components has utilized solely animal models and cell lines. Therefore, extensive clinical trials have been required to determine the effectiveness as well as safety of bitter melon in patients as the actual impact on human health has yet to be conclusively established. Moreover, both animal as well as laboratory research have revealed that under certain circumstances, bitter melon may cause toxic or negative effects. Thus, this review endeavour aims to furnish a comprehensive account of the ethnomedicinal, nutritional and pharmacological properties and potential adverse effects associated with bitter melon.