Natural remedy found to reduce the risk of diabetes

Bitter melon, also known as momordica (Momordica charantia), may be a source of compounds with strong antidiabetic and anticancer potential. This plant is widely used in traditional medicine across Asia and Africa, and its fruits resemble elongated cucumbers with a bumpy surface and a distinctly bitter taste. The findings were published in Frontiers in Nutrition (Front Nutr).

In the new study, researchers analyzed in detail the composition of different parts of the fruit—peel, pulp, and seeds—in both fresh and dried forms. The highest levels of phenolic compounds, including gallic and rosmarinic acids as well as resveratrol, were found in dried fruits, particularly in the peel.

Laboratory experiments showed that momordica extracts can suppress the activity of the enzyme α-amylase, which is involved in breaking down carbohydrates and raising blood sugar levels. This suggests a potential antidiabetic effect. In addition, some samples demonstrated cytotoxic activity against cancer cells.

The authors note that further studies in animals and humans are needed to confirm the effectiveness. Nevertheless, the research highlights the potential of momordica as a source of biologically active compounds for developing new therapeutic approaches.

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