Explain about Bitter Gourd?
Bitter gourd is also known as bitter melon or karela, its scientific name is Momordica charantia and it belongs to Cucurbitaceae family. It is originated in India and introduced to China. It is widely used in India and tropical countries like China, Thailand, East Africa and Asia. It is the bitterest vegetable among all the vegetables. It is a powerhouse of several nutrients that improve overall health. It is a vegetable that is widely used in Ayurvedic, herbal and traditional Chinese remedies. Usually they are dark and light green in colour but its size, colour and bitterness differs depending on the region they are grown. In India it is green or white in colour, has a narrow shape with pointed ends and surface covered with triangular ridges. Bitter gourd juice is also very beneficial for health. Bitter gourd is used in various dishes like stir fries, soups, herbal teas and prepared as fresh pickles. Different spices, lemon juice, honey and jiggery are used to control the bitterness. It control cancers, treats diabetes, fever and infections.
Nutrient factors present in Bitter Gourd :
Besides its bitter taste, it is a good source of vitamins, nutrients, minerals and antioxidants. It is very good and nutritious when compared to many other vegetables and fruits. It contains important minerals like zinc, potassium, iron, magnesium, calcium, manganese and copper. It is a very good source of dietary fibre and contains cellulose that helps digestion. Bitter gourds are very low in calories.
It contains essential vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, thiamine, folate, niacin and riboflavin. It acts as a powerful natural antioxidant. Bitter gourd is a good source of flavonoids like β-carotene, α-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin which are very beneficial for health and fight against aging, cancers and various disease processes. Bitter gourd contains an insulin compound called Polypeptide-p or p-insulin which helps to control diabetes naturally. The antioxidant properties present in bitter gourd acts as purifiers.
Surprising benefits of Bitter Gourd :
Even though it is bitter in taste it is loaded with important nutrients, minerals and vitamins, which we need for healthy and happy life. Health benefits of bitter gourd are
- Helpful in diabetes
- Improves immunity
- Controls various types of cancers and stops cancer cells from multiplying
- Treats respiratory problems like asthma, cold and cough
- Lowers bad cholesterol levels and helps in weight loss
- Treats skin problems and inflammation
- Bitter gourd juice helps in treating piles
- Improves digestion
- Good for hair
- Maintains Bp levels
- Improves liver health
- Treats kidney stones and bladder disorders
- Control heart diseases and helps in healthy heart
- Fights virus and bacterial infections
- Stimulate stamina and energy levels in the body
- Treats eye disorders and strengthens eyesight
- Helps in treating jaundice
- Helps in treating emotional disorders like anxiety and depression
- Useful and effective in treating HIV and AIDS infections
- Beneficial for women overall health (treats menstrual problems and female genital tract problems).