Bitter Gourd (Karela) – Medicinal values
Research have shown that bitter gourd contains hypoglycemic or insulin-like
principle, which has been found valuable in lowering the blood and
urine sugar levels. It should, therefore, be included liberally
in the diet of the diabetic.
Other Health Benefits:
Diabetes mellitus:
Bitter gourd contains a hypoglycemic compound (a plant insulin)
that is highly beneficial in lowering sugar levels in blood and
urine. Bitter melon juice has been shown to significantly improve
glucose tolerance without increasing blood insulin levels.
Energy: Regular consumption
of bitter gourd juice has been proven to improve energy and stamina
level. Even sleeping patterns have been shown to be improve.
 Eye
problems: The high beta-carotene and other properties
in bitter gourd makes it one of the finest vegetable that helps
improving eyesight.
Piles: Mix three teaspoonfuls
of juice from bitter gourd leaves with a glassful of buttermilk.
Take this every morning on empty stomach for about a month and see
an improvement to your condition.
Psoriasis: Regular
consumption of this bitter juice has also been known to improve
psoriasis condition and other fungal infections like ring-worm and
athletes feet.
Respiratory disorders:
Take two ounces of fresh bitter gourd juice and mix with a cup of
honey diluted in water. Drink daily to improve asthma, bronchitis
and pharyngitis.
Consumption Tips
Choose unripe bitter gourd that are firm, like how you
would a cucumber. Avoid those that have turned orange or have soft
spots. Ripe bitter melons can be excessively bitter.
Caution
Do not consume more than two ounces of bitter gourd, or more than
two melons a day. Excessive consumption may cause mild abdominal
pain
Pregnant women
Should avoid taking too much bitter gourd or its juice as it may
stimulate the uterus that may lead to preterm labor. |
