Momordica charantia known asbitter gourd or bitter melon or bitter squash in English, Karavella in Sanskrit and Karela in Hindi is a tropical and subtropical vine of the unsavory yet very nutritious and healthy. It’s a valuable herb gifted to us by Mother Nature and considered one of the best medicinal herbs due to its healing properties. It is grown in the Indian subcontinent and parts of Asia, Africa, and South America. Karela originated in India and it was carried to China in the 14th century.
Karela Dishes
Like most fresh vegetables, bittergourd is low in calories, and as such great for weight-loss. Research shows that bittergourd extract can help prevent breast cancers. In Ayurveda, bittergourd juice has long been used as a solution for diabetic issues and liver organ issues. It stimulates liver for secretion of bile juices that are very essential for metabolism of fats. It is an antidote for alcohol intoxication, and helps purify, restore and nourish liver. Its juice is also beneficial in the treatment of a bad hangover.
Bitter gourd is also effective in treating skin diseases or skin infections, eczema and psoriasis. It also helps in keeping the skin free from blemishes and keeps the skin glowing. Bittergourd has blood purifying properties. As a result, the juice is used in the treatment of blood disorders like blood boils and itching due to blood poisoning. Ayurvedic doctors also prescribe bitter-gourd juice for digestive problems and to boost resistance because it contains cellulose which is a very good source of fiber thus preventing constipation. It also helps in stimulating the secretion of gastric juices.
It is practical to include bittergourd in our diet as it offers so many advantages. However, expectant mothers are advised to avoid this vegetable as it can cause miscarriages.
Bittergourd contains a chemical called charantin which lower the urine and blood glucose levels, and hence the best home remedy for diabetes. Fresh juice of bittergourd is good for patients suffering from piles. It has good amount of beta carotene that helps relieve eye problems and improve the vision.
The health benefits of bitter gourd are greater than those of many vegetables. It has numerous vital nutritional supplements including vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin C, Iron, Calcium, Phosphorous, Copper and Potassium. It energizes the appetite, cleanses the liver, purifies the blood and provides many other benefits.