Preliminary clinical trials of karela, Momordica charantia, on non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus patients

Abstract

Background Traditional methods of treatment for diabetes was recommended by WHO in 1985. On in-vivo trials in animal models, one of the authors revealed the potentiality of karela in the treatment of diabetes. Aim The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of Momordica charantia as a hypoglycemic in type 2 diabetic patients. Formulated tablets from M . charantia (karela) juice of the unripe fruits were used. Materials and methods Juice from immature fruits was filtrated through specific membranes to separate active polypeptide mimic insulin. The powder obtained after spray drying was formulated as a 20 mg tablet of polypeptide. Eighteen of 60 patients continued the treatment. All patients had type 2 diabetes. They were followed up for 1-8 weeks and examined clinically and investigated for different parameters. Results As this trial is a case analysis, the result of each case was presented and the overall trial results were discussed. Conclusion M. charantia can be used as an effective oral adjunct hypoglycemic, with no reportable clinical side effects. The treatment must be continued for 4 weeks.