HISTORY
Momordica is a Latin word that means "to bite" and refers to the look of the uneven seeds.
The species name charantia is unclear as to meaning
but could be Latin and refer to the pointed fruit.
FAMILY
Cucurbitaceae, Cucumber Family
BIOLOGY
The ripe fruits and seeds are toxic
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS
Antiviral
Aphrodisiac
Increases tissue uptake of glucose due to charantin
WEBSITE CITED
http://momordica.allbio.org/
http://www.natmedpro.com/nmp/Momord.htm

Momordica charantia also known as bitter gourd, bittermelon, balsam pear, or foogwa, is a plant believed to have originated in the tropics of the Old World and is now widely distributed in China, Malaya, tropical Africa and India, with India considered to be an important center of genetic diversity.
Momordica charantia is a good source of vitamin C and provide some vitamin A, phosphorus, iron and a good source of carbohydrates, the fruits are fried, boiled, stuffed, dried, and pickled. Momordica charantia is considered one of the most nutritious gourds and is a commercially important vegetable., because Momordica charantia has been used by natives for cancer, diabetes and many infectious diseases. It is a powerful weapon against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Some cultures also consume the tender shoots and leaves. The fruits, leaves, and roots have long been used in India as a folk medicine for diabetes; and in the West Indies, tropical Mexico and South America karela is one of the most commonly used medicinal herbs.

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