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Uses
Folkloric
Astringent powdered leaves or root decoction can be applied to hemorrhoids.
Leaf juice for cough and as a purgative and anthelminthic to expel intestinal
parasites, and for healing wounds.
Seeds also used to expel worms.
Juice from fruit used for dysentery and chronic colitis.
The vine or the juice of leaves used as mild purgative for children.
In large doses, the fresh juice is a drastic purgative.
Decoction of roots and seeds used for urethral discharges.
Pounded leaves used for scalds.
Infusion of leaves or leaf juice used for fevers.
In Jamaica, leaf decoction or infusion is taken for colds, as laxative and blood
cleanser. Warm tea infusions also used for toothaches and mouth infections.
Also used as a bath/wash for skin eruptions and acne.
Used for eczema, malarial, gout, jaundice, abdominal pain, kidney (stone),
leprosy, leucorrhea, piles, pneumonia, psoriasis, rheumatism, fever and
scabies.
In China, used as hypoglycemic and antidiabetic.
In Turkey, used for healing of cutaneous lesions and peptic ulcers.
Nutritional
The leaves and fruit - used as vegetables - are excellent sources of Vit B, iron,
calcium, and phosphorus. It has twice the amount of beta carotene in broccoli and
twice the calcium content of spinach. Characteristically bitter-tasting, slight soaking
in salty water before cooking removes some of the bitter taste of the fruit.
Philippine News: Diabetes Mellitus
Ampalaya is a Philippine herb that has recently gained international
recognition for its possible benefits in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Despite its
bitter taste, it has also become a popular nutritional drink for a boost of vim and
vigor. In fact, the bitterer, the better, as it is believed that the bitterness is
proportionate to its potency.
Studies have suggested that Ampalaya contains a hypoglycemic polypeptide, a
plant insulin responsible for its blood sugar lowering effect. Other benefits
suggested were body detoxification (including removal of nicotine), strengthening of
the immune system and fertility regulation.
It is increasingly recommended as an adjunct or supplement to traditional
therapeutic regimens for diabetes mellitus.
Studies
Analgesic / Cholinomimetic: A methanol leaf extract study of Mormodica
charantia in rodents suggested cholinomimetic and analgesic activities.
Antidiabetic and adaptogenic properties: Adaptogenic properties are
indicated by the delay in the appearance of cataracts, the secondary
low fire (for 15 minutes). Drink 1/3 cup, three times a day, 30 minutes before meals.
Don't use aluminum pots (clay or enamel only).
Toxicity
None known
Availability
o Wild-crafted.
o Perennial vegetable markets produce.
o Tablets (Amargozin by Altermed / Pascual Laboratories) for diabetes.
Recently, available in capsule formulation, Charagen Ampalaya.