Vol. 9, Issue 3, Part F (2025)

Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia), often called bitter melon, is a tropical and subtropical plant that is well-known for its unique bitter flavor as well as its health benefits. This comprehensive study explores the nutritional composition and potential medicinal applications of bitter gourds, with a focus on their bioactive components, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic acids, and saponins. The amount of dietary fiber, minerals (iron, potassium, and magnesium), and vitamins (A, C, E and folate) in bitter gourds contributes to their nutritional value. The review highlights the numerous pharmacological effects of bitter gourd, which are attributed to its several bioactive components and include antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticancer properties. The mechanisms behind these health benefits, include modulation of glucose metabolism, inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, and enhancement of immune responses, are discussed. Furthermore, the review addresses the potential applications of bitter gourd in the prevention and management of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and obesity. Current challenges and future research directions for maximizing the therapeutic potential of bitter gourd are also considered. This review underscores the importance of bitter gourd as a functional food with significant nutritional and medicinal value, advocating for its increased incorporation into dietary practices and further scientific exploration.