Exploring the therapeutic potential: analysis of phytochemicals and biological properties of bitter gourd (momordica charantia. l) fruit extracts

Research Article
Chandraiah. G
DOI: 
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.24327/ijrsr.20241502.0854
Subject: 
Other
KeyWords: 
Momordica charantia L. Bitter gourd, Phytochemical analysis, biological activities, Anti-diabetic effects, Medicinal properties, Nutritional value, and Fruit extracts
Abstract: 

Momordica charantia L., commonly known as bitter gourd, is a climbing plant indigenous to Asia, notably prevalent in India, and is identified by various vernacular names such as Karol, spiny gourd, or teasle gourd. Despite its longstanding use as a traditional remedy for diverse ailments, bitter gourd has also been part of dietary consumption owing to its nutritional richness, even though it is not a commonly utilized vegetable. Our study focuses on the fruit extracts of bitter gourd, with the primary objective of scrutinizing its chemical composition and assessing its potential health properties. The extraction process has unveiled a spectrum of beneficial compounds within bitter gourd, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and polyphenols. Laboratory tests have demonstrated significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in these extracts. Noteworthy is their potential efficacy in the management of diabetes, suggesting prospective applications in the treatment of this condition. This research contributes insights into the medicinal attributes of bitter gourd fruit, accentuating its significance as a source of bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic benefits. Furthermore, it underscores the imperative for continued investigation into the specific chemical constituents of bitter gourd, essential for researchers interested in unlocking the untapped therapeutic potential of the fruit. In addition to the examination of fruit extracts, our investigation extends to the study of methanolic and ethanolic extracts of bitter gourd, entailing an exploration of their chemical properties and the identification of active ingredients. This systematic exploration augments our comprehension of bitter gourd's broader therapeutic roles, laying the foundation for further research in this promising field.