Momordica charantia

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Momordica charantia

Momordica charantia (pronunciation: mo-MOR-di-ca cha-RAN-ti-a), also known as bitter melon, bitter gourd, or bitter squash, is a tropical and subtropical vine of the family Cucurbitaceae, widely grown for its edible fruit.

Etymology

The genus name Momordica is derived from the Latin word 'mordere' which means "to bite", referring to the jagged edges of the leaves which appear as if bitten. The species name charantia comes from a Greek word meaning "grated or shredded", possibly referring to the appearance of the fruit's interior when ripe.

Description

Momordica charantia is a fast-growing, tendril-bearing vine that can reach a length of 5 meters. The plant bears simple, alternate leaves 4–12 cm across, with three to seven deeply separated lobes. The fruit is oblong, with a distinct warty exterior, and an oblong shape. It is hollow in cross-section, with a relatively thin layer of flesh surrounding a central seed cavity filled with large, flat seeds and pith.

Medicinal Uses

Momordica charantia has been used in various Asian and African herbal medicine systems for a long time. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is used as a folk remedy for various diseases such as diabetes, stomach and intestinal problems, to promote menstruation, and as an antiviral for HIV and AIDS. The fruit and seeds are used to make medicine. Despite its bitter taste, it is widely used for its healing properties.

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