Karawila (Bitter Gourd)

ORIGINS

India

TASTE

Bitter

AYURVEDA & MEDICINAL USES

In January 2011, the results of a four-week clinical trial were published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, which showed that a 2,000 mg daily dose of bitter melon significantly reduced blood glucose levels among patients with type 2 diabetes, although the hypoglycemic effect was less than a 1,000 mg/day dose of metformin.

The blood purifying properties of bitter gourd deem it to be an ideal treatment for blood disorders like blood boils and itching due to blood poisoning caused by bacterial toxic substances in the blood

NOTABLE FACTS

Native to tropical Asia, the bitter gourd has a long history dating back to about 600 years in China. The Chinese associated the bitter gourd as a beneficial vegetable for medicinal purposes, particularly for those suffering from diabetes. Additionally, it was used as a folk remedy for curing tumors, asthma, skin infections, GI problems, and hypertension. In many cultures various parts of the bitter melon plant including the leaves are used as a contraceptive as they have been shown to have an antifertility effect in both males and females.

TRY-ME RECIPES

A combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors at once masks and complements the bitterness of bitter squash. This stir fry pairs this veggie with a rich, unctuous sauce made from fermented black beans, fish sauce, and chiles.