Bitter melon, also known as bitter apple, bitter gourd and Balsam-pear, offers countless benefits for the overall health. It is loaded with minerals, like phosphorus, zinc, potassium, calcium, copper, iron and vitamin B1, vitamin B2 and vitamin C.

Health benefits of bitter melon

The regular consumption of bitter melon has numerous health benefits, including:

1. Relieve respiratory issues

Bitter melon is effective in relieving various respiratory issues, such as common colds, cough and flu. Moreover, due to its antihistamine, expectorant, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, bitter melon is beneficial for reducing inflammation, preventing free radical damage, detoxifying the body, cleansing excess mucus and improving blood circulation in the body.

Studies show that bitter melon juice can provide a relief from respiratory disorders, such as bronchitis, asthma, and rhinitis.

2. Sooth inflammation and treat wounds

Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, bitter melon is effective in treating wounds, skin infections and other skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema.

3. Reduce the risk of heart disease

Bitter melon improves metabolic rate and reduces the risk of high blood pressure, high levels of cholesterol and cardiovascular disease.

4. Enhance digestion and liver health

The extract of bitter melon helps relieve intestinal and stomach issues. Furthermore, it aids digestion, prevents constipation, prevents the formation of kidney stones, relieves the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease and enhances the function of the digestive system.

5. Help regulate blood sugar levels

The mighty hypoglycemic properties of bitter melon help control insulin use in the body.
In addition, bitter melon helps treat other complications due to diabetes, like high levels of blood sugar, insulin resistance, heart disease, kidney damage or nephropathy, eye disorders, like glaucoma and cataracts, hormonal imbalances, menstrual pain, blood vessel damage, etc.

6. Get rid of viruses and bacterial infections

Thanks to its antiviral and antibacterial properties, bitter melon can help prevent bacterial infections, which are the major causes of stomach ulcers.

7. Regulate diabetes

Consuming bitter melon can help regulate diabetes. Alkaloids and charntin in bitter melon help reduce the levels of blood sugar.

8. Relieve hemorrhoids

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, bitter melon is a great natural remedy for relieving the symptoms of hemorrhoids. Applying bitter melon paste topically can reduce inflammation and sooth pain and bleeding.

9. Boost immunity

Bitter melon is a great source of antioxidants that act as a defense against diseases in the body. Adding bitter melon to your diet can boost immunity and prevent various diseases, such as kidney damage, heart attack and liver failure.

10. Reduce the risk of cancer

The antioxidants in bitter melon can eliminate free radicals, which contribute to numerous diseases. According to the studies, bitter melon can help induce apoptosis in cancerous cells and hinder the growth of breast, skin, prostate and cervical cancer. The extract of bitter melon is considered to promote body detoxification and hinder free radical damage, which leads to cell mutations and tumor growth.

Possible side effects of bitter melon

• Breastfeeding and pregnant women should avoid consuming bitter melon, as it can contribute to menstrual bleeding.

• If you have undergone surgery, you should avoid bitter melon, as it may interfere with blood sugar levels and lead to side effects, such as fainting and dizziness.

Therefore, before adding bitter lemon to your diet, make sure you consult with a healthcare professional.