
Balsam pear

Bitter gourd

African cucumber

Bitter apple

Wild cucumber

Tropical and subtropical climates

All parts of the plant, the seeds, leaves, and vines are used for medicinal purposes

The actual fruit of the bitter melon is most commonly used

Cancer prevention

Diabetes

Fever

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)

Infections

Menstrual disorders

Compounds in bitter melon:
−
Increase glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis in the liver, muscle, and adipose tissue
− Improve glucose tolerance

In vitro and animal studies indicate anticancer, antiviral, and lipid-lowering effects

Is generally regarded as safe when used properly

May cause abdominal pain and diarrhea with excessive dose

Is associated with headache, fever, and coma with excessive ingestion of seeds

Can increase the effects of diabetes drugs and may lead to hypoglycemia

Do not take during pregnancy or lactation

May reduce fertility in women and men

Do not take with herbs or medications that may lower blood sugars

Use with caution in patients with impaired hepatic function

Fruit juice: A dose of 50
−
100 milliliters (approximately 3
−
6 tablespoons) of bitter melon fruit juice is used, but this is not substantiated by sufficient clinical trial evidence

References and recommended readings
Drugs.com. Bitter melon. Available at: http://www.drugs.com/npp/bitter-melon.html
.
Accessed March 14, 2011.
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Bitter melon. Available at: http://www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/69138.cfm
. Accessed March 14, 2011.
Review Date 5/11
G-1632