Momordica charantia, aka Bitter Melon

Momordica more commonly known as, Bitter Melon, or Bitter Gourd, is an important food and medicinal staple in tropical parts of the world. And Bitter Melon has demonstrated great promise in studies recently, for the treatment of diabetes Studies indicate that the fruit may have great potential for serious malignant diseases, including leukemia and prostate cancer, though there is no definitive evidence to prove this last claim. Early laboratory tests suggest that compounds in Bitter Melon extract might be effective for HIV infections, measles, herpes and chickenpox. Traditionally it was used by herbalists as a male aphrodisiac, a treatment for certain infections and bacteria, and was even considered to be a remedy for bad breath. The remedy has also been beneficial for helping to burn the unnecessary fats in the body that clog arteries and veins, and protecting the heart from any irregularities.Other indications for the herb are in cases of psoriasis, poor vision, osteoporosis, alleviation of cold symptoms, rhuematism, gout, high blood pressure, fever and Alzheimer's disease. 

Extracts of Bitter Melon are an excellent source of vitamin C, one of the most power natural antioxidants, as well as beneficial flavonoids such as B-carotene, a-carotene, a-xanthin and lutein. It also has a good amount of vitamin A. Together, these compounds help act as protective scavengers against oxygen-derived free radicals and reactive oxygen species, ROS, that plays a role in aging, cancer and various disease processes. It is currently being studied as a complementary alternative medicine for the treatment of head and neck cancer, as well as breast cancer. 

Bitter melon's bitterness comes from the high concentration of quinine it contains, and there is some documented evidence that support its use for bacterial and viral infections, such as malaria and HIV and AIDS. And new studies have shown that it may be more effective than popular prescription drugs for destroying certain strains of herpes viruses. It is believed to kill acyclovir-resistant herpes viruses, including chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).

Bitter Melon is considered to be one of the best remedies diabetes. It has the ability to increase insulin sensitivity in the body. Four promising compounds found in the fruit appear to activate the enzyme AMPK, a protein well known for regulating fuel metabolism and enabling glucose uptake. Practitioners of Chinese medicine have used it for hundreds of years with good effect. Excercise also activates AMPK, which is why it is often recommended as part of a normal treatment program for someone with Type 2 diabetes. 

Considered an herbal laxative and a diuretic, Bitter Melon is reputed to cleanse toxins from the system. Like most bitter foods, the herb stimulates digestion, and is helpful for constipation. The fact that In traditional herbal medicine, the herb was a remedy for dysentery and a treatment for colitis.Bitter Melon is a thought to be a "cooling" tonic that is used to generally cool the body and reduce fever. It is also said to soothe irritated tissues. Bitter Melon is thought to be an effective treatment for parasites and expels worms from the intestinal tract.

Consuming Momordica can help to get rid of acne, blemishes and deep skin infections. Bitter Melon is also found to be useful in treating disorders such as blood boils, scabies, itching, dry skin, psoriasis, ringworm and other fungal diseases. The free radicals in the herbal tincture are also useful for anti-aging. Externally, it is used to relieve hemorrhoids, skin eruptions, chapped skin and burns, as it helps to soothe skin irritations and reduce the itching of poison ivy.

Ingredients: Momordica aka Bitter Melon, Distilled Water and 20% Alcohol.

Non-Alcohol: Momordica (Bitter Melon), Vegetable Glycerin. 

Instructions: Use 6-12 drops in juice or water, under the tongue or as desired. May be taken 3 times daily. Shake well. Store in cool dark place. Keep out of reach of children.

Contraindications: Pregnant women should avoid this product, as it may stimulate uterine contractions. Bitter Melon Herbal Supplement should never be used by those who suffer with hypoglycemia, since it may possibly worsen or trigger low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Also, diabetics who take prescription hypoglycemic drugs or insulin should not take Bitter Melon unless under a physician's direction. Do not use Bitter Melon if you have cirrhosis of the liver or a medical history of hepatitis or HIV infection compounded by liver infection. It is recommended that Bitter Melon should be used for four weeks only, and then discontinued for four weeks before beginning regimen again.

Disclaimer: The information presented herein by New Way Herbs is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.