Bitter gourd is a tropical plant, also known as bitter gourd. The scientific name of bitter gourd is Momordica charantia. It is an extremely bitter, green fruit that belongs to the cucumber family. Although it is consumed all over the world, it grows mainly in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean region.
It is a great source of most vitamins, such as A, B, C, and E, and zinc, potassium, and other essential nutrients. Despite its strong, bitter taste, bitter gourd is highly valued for its medicinal properties, such as regulating blood sugar, boosting the immune system and protecting against parasites, supporting digestive health, and boosting immunity. It is also used in a variety of recipes, juices, and traditional remedies.
Nutritional value of Karela
As we mentioned above, bitter gourd is a very nutritious vegetable. It is an excellent source of vitamins B1, B2, B3, magnesium, and folate and has high dietary fiber. Because it has anti-inflammatory and laxative properties, it has also become an Ayurvedic remedy for piles.
Bitter gourd contains twice the beta-carotene of broccoli, twice the calcium of spinach, etc. Before discussing the benefits of bitter gourd, let us understand its nutritional value.
|
Nutrient |
Amount |
|
Calories |
34 kcal |
|
Water |
92.1 g |
|
Carbohydrates |
7.6 g |
|
Fiber |
2.8 g |
|
Sugars |
1.5 g |
|
Protein |
1.0 g |
|
Fat |
0.2 g |
|
Vitamins |
|
|
Vitamin C |
84.4 mg (141% DV) |
|
Vitamin A |
0 IU |
|
Folate (Vitamin B9) |
72 mcg (18% DV) |
|
Vitamin K |
3.5 mcg |
|
Minerals |
|
|
Potassium |
296 mg (8% DV) |
|
Calcium |
19 mg |
|
Magnesium |
17 mg |
|
Iron |
0.4 mg |
|
Phosphorus |
28 mg |
|
Zinc |
0.8 mg |
|
Antioxidants |
|
|
Beta-carotene |
21 mcg |
|
Lutein & Zeaxanthin |
0.1 mg |
Ayurvedic Profile for Kara
In Ayurveda karela, because of its therapeutic properties, it is considered a highly beneficial vegetable. It is especially known for its ability to balance all three doshas, which are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
|
Element |
Description |
|
Rasa (Taste) |
Bitter (Katu) |
|
Virya (Potency) |
Ushna (Heating) |
|
Vipaka (Post-Digestive Effect) |
Katu (Pungent) |
|
Dosha Effect |
Balances Kapha and Pitta, may increase Vata |
|
Common Uses |
Juice for blood sugar regulation |
|
Contraindications |
May aggravate Vata, causing dryness or gas in some people. Should be avoided by pregnant women in large amounts. |
Karela Benefits for Health
Karela, also known as bitter melon or Momordica charantia, is a tropical fruit that is widely recognized for its numerous health benefits. Here are some of the bitter melon health benefits given below.
1. Regulates blood sugar levels
Bitter gourd is a good source to reduce diabetes as it contains chemicals that help lower blood sugar levels and regulate sugar metabolism.
Bitter gourd increases the way sugar is absorbed by tissues and encourages the hormone insulin to be released. Studies show that the use of karela for diabetes is more beneficial when it is taken raw in the form of juice or powder to control blood sugar levels naturally.
That’s why Ayush 82, which contains karevela in it. Ayush 82 is formulated by CCRAS.
2. Boosts Immune System
It is rich in vitamins A and C. Karela enhances the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and promoting overall health.
Bitter gourd is full of vitamins and antioxidants, which fight with germs and viruses and guard against indigestion and allergies. I also slow down the proliferation of cancer cells and prevent our body from damage.
3. Improve our liver health
Liver is one of the vital organs of our body, and bitter gourd helps in improving our liver health in many ways. It detoxes our body, flushes out harmful substances, and also increases the production and efficiency of liver enzymes.
The antioxidant properties of bitter gourd stimulate the secretion of bile ducts and reduce fat accumulation in the liver, thereby preventing liver damage.
4. Anti-cancer properties
According to some studies, karela also has anti-cancer properties. Study shows that because of bitter melon medicinal properties, it has some quality to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
5. Support the heart health
Cholesterol and BP are two of the biggest reasons to affect our heart health. Karela helps to reduce cholesterol levels and maintain cardiovascular health. There are some anti-inflammatory properties present in Kerala, which also help in heart health.
6. Improve skin quality
The antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties of karela make it effective for treating skin conditions like acne, eczema, and fungal infections. It can also help in detoxifying the skin.
7. Support weight loss
Bitter gourd has certain properties that make it conducive to weight loss and is considered a healthy way to lose weight.
It is a low-calorie and high-fiber fruit with low fat content and about 2 grams of fiber per 100 grams. Bitter gourd juice also helps in producing bile acid, which is essential for fat metabolism.
8. Purify blood
There are some properties called antimicrobials and antioxidants present in karela juice that help to treat blood disorders. It removes toxins from the blood and purifies it.
Kerala also helps in blood circulation. It improves blood circulation and helps to cure issues like blood boils.
9. Reduce alcoholic issues
Bitter gourd is also one of the foods that help you reduce alcohol intake and cravings. It reduces the accumulation of hepatic TG content caused by alcohol and enhances the antioxidant defense system. This food also prevents fatty liver caused by alcohol consumption.
10. Reduce inflammation and help with joint pain
Karela is full of anti-inflammatory compounds, which help to reduce swelling and pain. It also helps with arthritis pain and joint pain.
11. Helps to improve eye health
In Karela there is a huge vitamin A content found. Because of this, Karela is very beneficial for eye health. It prevents eyes from different problems like cataracts and night blindness.
Side effects:
Although bitter melon, or karela, has numerous health benefits, it can also have some drawbacks, especially if eaten in excess or improperly prepared. The following are some possible Karela side effects:
1. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
Bitter gourd is very beneficial for diabetics, but its excessive consumption, especially with diabetes medication, can cause hypoglycemia, a condition in which the blood sugar levels drop dangerously. This leads to some symptoms like dizziness, confusion, weakness, and fainting.
2. Stomach irritation and digestive issues
The bitter compounds found in karela can sometimes cause stomach upset, cramping, nausea, or diarrhea. Overconsumption of raw karela and bitter gourd leaves, particularly the seeds, can irritate the stomach and cause some digestive issues.
3. Pregnancy and breastfeeding issues
According to studies, high amounts of karela in its raw form could cause uterine contractions and may increase the risk of miscarriage. Pregnant women should avoid karela or consume it only after consulting with a healthcare provider. It can also affect breast milk while breastfeeding.
4. Allergic reactions
Sometimes it is found that Kara shows some side effects and allergic reactions. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rashes, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If any of these symptoms occur, discontinue use and seek medical advice immediately.
5. Hypotension (low blood pressure)
Karela may lower blood pressure when consumed in large amounts. It may lead to hypotension, which is the condition when blood pressure goes very low. It causes dizziness or fainting. People with low blood pressure or those on medication should take doctors before consuming.
6. Kidney Problems
In rare cases, excessive consumption of bitter melon can affect kidney function. It is important that if you have kidney issues, limit their intake and consult a healthcare professional before using karela regularly.
The Best Way to Eat Bitter Gourd
Here are some ways to consume karela (bitter melon).
1. Cooked:
You can use it by roasting, frying, or cooking it with spices and vegetables to reduce the bitterness.
2. Juice:
To balance the taste, mix raw bitter gourd with water or other fruits like apple or lemon and use it as juice.
3. Stuffed:
Stuff the karela with a mixture of besan (gram flour), spices (like turmeric, chili powder, and coriander powder), and salt vegetables before cooking.
4. In Salads:
Thinly slice karela and mix with other vegetables, or marinate to soften the bitterness.
5. Powdered:
Dried karela can be ground into a powder and added to smoothies or teas.
6. Pickled:
Fermented or pickled karela can be a tasty and tangy addition to meals.
Precautions should be taken while consuming karela:
It is important to take some safety measures and precautions when using Karela or bitter gourd because it can have side effects and interact with medications:
1. Eat Lightly:
Consuming too much can lead to toxicity or intestinal problems.
2. Monitor blood sugar:
If you have diabetes, check your blood sugar levels since they can be lowered.
3. Avoid during pregnancy:
See your doctor because it can cause uterine contractions.
3. Remove Seeds:
Excessive amounts of seeds might be risky.
4. Watch for medication interactions:
It could cause problems with blood thinners, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
5. Be cautious if allergic:
Discontinue use if you experience allergic reactions.
6. Avoid having kidney issues:
People with kidney problems should consult a doctor before use.
FAQs
Q1. How much Karela juice to drink every day?
It's generally safe to drink 1 glass of diluted karela juice per day, but start with smaller amounts to see how your body responds.
Q2. What are the 10 benefits of Karela?
Ans: The 10 benefits of karela are as per below:
- Regulates Blood Sugar: Helps lower blood sugar levels, beneficial for diabetes.
- Boosts Immunity: Rich in vitamin C, strengthening the immune system.
- Promotes Digestion: Improves digestion and alleviates constipation.
- Supports Weight Loss: Helps in metabolism and reduces fat accumulation.
- Improves Skin Health: Fights acne and other skin conditions with its antibacterial properties.
- Detoxifies the Liver: Helps in liver detox and improves liver function.
- Enhances Heart Health: Reduces cholesterol and promotes cardiovascular health.
- Anti-Cancer Properties: Contains compounds that may inhibit cancer cell growth.
- Reduces Inflammation: Has anti-inflammatory effects, helps in joint and muscle health.
- Improves Eye Health: It's high vitamin A, which helps to prevent vision problems.
Q3. How much Karela juice to drink every day for skin?
Drinking 100–200 ml/day of karela juice daily can help improve skin health.
Q4. How much Karela juice should I drink every day to lose weight?
Drinking 100-120 ml of karela juice daily, along with a balanced diet and exercise, can support weight loss.
Q5. How much Karela juice to drink every day for constipation?
Drinking 2-3 teaspoons of karela juice mixed with an equal amount of water once a day before eating can help relieve constipation.
Q6. Can we drink bitter gourd juice daily?
Yes, you can drink bottle gourd juice daily, but you should limit yourself to about 1 cup (250 ml) per day. Excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort.
Q7. Benefits of karela juice on an empty stomach?
Drinking karela juice on an empty stomach can help detoxify the body, regulate blood sugar, improve digestion, and give skin benefits.
