Momordica Charantia Research Articles

Genomic distinctiveness and recombination in tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus (ToLCNDV-BG) isolates infecting bitter gourd.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-024-04009-3.

Formulation and Evaluation of Polyherbal Antidiabetic Tablet

About 60% of people use traditional medicines that are made from medicinal plants. This article focuses on Indian herbal medicines and plants that are utilized, particularly in India, to treat diabetes. Diabetes is a serious illness that affects many people worldwide from all areas of life. It is proven to be a serious health issue in India, particularly in the cities. Although there are many ways to lessen diabetes' negative effects and its secondary complications, herbal formulations are preferred because they have fewer side effects and are less expensive. A list of medicinal plants having established antidiabetic properties, as well as herbal medications used to treat diabetes, is compiled. These includes, Tinospora cordifolia, Azadirachta indica, Enicostemma axillare, Momordica Charantia, Phyllanthus emblica, Centratherum anthelminticum. Damage caused by free radicals is one of the etiologic factors linked to the onset of diabetes and its complications, so an anti-diabetic drug having antioxidant qualities would be more advantageous. Historically, substances and extracts obtained from various natural resources, particularly plants, have been a valuable tool for managing and treating diabetes-related issues and complications. Therefore, this review aids the reader in understanding the significance of various herbal and polyherbal formulations that have been used traditionally to treat diabetes mellitus.

Effect of microwave heating on the phenolic and carotenoid composition and antioxidant properties of Momordicacharantia

Momordica charantia L. (MC) is a widely consumed vegetable known for its nutritional benefits, as it is a rich source of carotenoids and phenolic compounds. Various cooking methods are use in domestic settings, including microwave cooking. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the impact of microwave cooking on the bioactive composition of MC. MC fruits were subjected to microwave heat for 5-, 10-, and 15-min. High performance liquid chromatography was used to identify of carotenoids and phenolic compounds, and total bioactive composition and antioxidant assays were conducted using spectroscopic techniques. There were 17 carotenoids and chlorophylls identified in MC fruit, including lutein, violaxanthin, antheraxanthin, pheophytin a, and all-E-β-carotene. The levels of these compounds significantly increased upon exposure to microwave heating. Similarly, 16 phenolic compounds were identified, and their amounts increased during the treatments, except for 3-hydroxyphloretin-6′-hexoside, quercetin-3-(6″-acetyl)-glucoside, petunidin-3-(6″-acetyl)-glucoside and petunidin-3-(6″-acetyl)-glucoside. The sample subjected to microwave treatment for 15 min exhibited the highest concentration of total phenolic compounds (TPC) at 754.5 mg/100g. The total flavonoid content (TFC) reached 94.6 mg/100g after 10 min of treatment. Additionally, the maximum total anthocyanin content, reported as 54.8 mg/L, was observed in the sample exposed to microwave heating for 15 min.

Comparative transcriptomics analysis of tolerant and sensitive genotypes reveals genes involved in the response to cold stress in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.)

Bitter gourd is an economically important horticultural crop for its edible and medicinal value. However, the regulatory mechanisms of bitter gourd in response to cold stress are still poorly elucidated. In this study, phytohormone determination and comparative transcriptome analyses in XY (cold-tolerant) and QF (cold-sensitive) after low temperature treatment were conducted. Under cold stress, the endogenous contents of abscisic acid (ABA), jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA) in XY were significantly increased at 24 h after treatment (HAT), indicating that ABA, JA and SA might function in regulating cold resistance. RNA-seq results revealed that more differentially expressed genes were identified at 6 HAT in QF and 24 HAT in XY, respectively. KEGG analysis suggested that the plant hormone signal transduction pathway was significantly enriched in both genotypes at all the time points. In addition, transcription factors showing different expression patterns between XY and QF were identified, including CBF3, ERF2, NAC90, WRKY51 and WRKY70. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis suggested MARK1, ERF17, UGT74E2, GH3.1 and PPR as hub genes. These results will deepen the understanding of molecular mechanism of bitter gourd in response to cold stress and the identified genes may help to facilitate the genetic improvement of cold-resistant cultivars.

Anti-diabetic, Anti-cancer Potential and Anti HIV of Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia) Extract: A Mini Review

Aims: To review the antidiabetic properties, pharmacological characteristics, and phytochemical research on Momordica Ccharantia (bitter gourd) and assess its potential as a therapeutic agent for diabetes and cancer prevention. Study Design: Review of existing literature and research studies, including pre-clinical trials and animal and in vitro studies. Methodology: Analysis of traditional uses, pharmacological data, and phytochemical research on M. Charantia. Evaluation of anti-diabetic and anti-HIV properties based on available studies. Results: Charantia has shown anti-diabetic and hypoglycemic effects in pre-clinical studies. Limited and unreliable clinical data due to poor research design and inadequate statistical power. Recent studies indicate potential anti-tumor, anti-diabetic, and anti-HIV properties. Plant extract components have demonstrated effectiveness in cancer prevention through immune function enhancement, induction of cell death, and inhibition of cancer-related processes. Conclusion: M. Charantia holds promise as a therapeutic agent for diabetes management and cancer prevention. However, there is a need for better-designed clinical trials to confirm its efficacy and establish reliable clinical evidence.

Evaluation of Various Genotypes of Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.) on Quality Traits

A field investigation is done in which thirty-six genotypes of bitter gourd were evaluated to estimate the quality traits under study. Randomized block design is followed and the genotypes are replicated twice. The study was conducted during Rabi 2021. Major variations have been observed among the genotypes for each character that are studied, based on the analysis of variance. Genotype VBGC-9 had a high TSS (4.600Brix), While genotype VBGC-22 had the highest Vitamin-C content (114.50 mg/100mg). The highest titratable acidity was found in genotype VBGC-13 (0.05%), and was followed by VBGC-18 (0.05%) and VBGC-33 (0.05%). The genotype VBGC-27 had its highest total sugar content (3.77%), VBGC-18 (3.25%) has the highest amount of reducing sugars, followed by VBGC-31 (3.25%) and VBGC-32 (3.25%). Therefore, after several years and locations of testing, the best-performing genotypes may be recommended for commercial cultivation and used to promote bitter gourd cultivation efforts as elite germplasm lines or varieties.

Drying behavior and nutritional quality of bitter‐gourd slices dried in a solar dryer with tray and skewer arrangement

AbstractIn this investigation, we assessed the efficacy of an indirect‐type solar drying system that utilized skewers and rack arrangements, comparing it to a conventional drying cabinet equipped with trays for dehydrating bitter gourd slices. We examined the influence of pretreatment methods and loading quantities on the solar drying process for bitter gourd slices in both configurations. The drying behavior of various combinations was scrutinized, and the physicochemical attributes of the dried bitter gourd samples, including total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, total chlorophyll content, antioxidant capacity, ascorbic acid content, and color, were analyzed. Rehydration characteristics, such as rehydration ratio, coefficient of rehydration, percent water in the rehydrated sample, and hardness of the rehydrated sample, were also determined. The bitter gourd slices achieved a final moisture content of 6.84%–8.27% wb after drying from an initial range of 88%–90% wb, within a total elapsed time of 28–55 h. The solar drying cabinet utilizing skewers exhibited enhanced efficiency, featuring reduced drying time and superior product quality compared to the tray‐equipped drying cabinet. This improved performance is ascribed to enhanced hot air circulation over the produce surface, facilitated by the uniform spacing between skewers on racks within the drying chamber.

Empowering society and culinary MSMEs for sustainable development goals initiatives in West Java

Purpose: This study aimed to explore the impact of empowering society and culinary MSMEs on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in West Java, focusing on Sindangmukti Village, Karawang Regency. While prior research has often used a top-down approach, neglecting direct societal impact, this study takes a bottom-up perspective, aligning with implicit SDG principles observed in community services. Research Methodology: The study employed online questionnaires with 505 households in West Java to evaluate water consumption, waste generation, and energy usage patterns. Specific investigations in Sindangmukti Village have measured community service effectiveness regarding SDGs. Results: The study found that Only 19.1% of the participants set AC temperatures within the recommended ranges. Additionally, initiatives to promote a sustainable city strategy and establish energy-efficient culinary MSMEs in Sindangmukti Village resulted in a 29% increase in knowledge among 70 participants and generated $36.71 income from bitter melon chip production within two months. Limitations: However, the study focused solely on Sindangmukti Village, neglecting the diverse cultural and problem landscapes of other villages in the Karawang Regency. Contributions: The findings of this study can inform future efforts to enhance energy, water, and waste efficiency in residential buildings in West Java, thereby fostering awareness of energy conservation, environmental sustainability, and economic resilience.

Performance of Different Hybrids of Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.) in Terms of Growth, Yield and Quality in Prayagraj Agro-climatic Condition

Performance of Different Hybrids of Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.) in Terms of Growth, Yield and Quality in Prayagraj Agro-climatic Condition

Medicinal plants as a source of natural remedies in the management of diabetes

Diabetes is a severe chronic illness that has impacted thousands of individuals worldwide. It is caused by the body’s failure to produce insulin or insufficient production of insulin. While diabetes is not curable, it can be managed with injectable insulin, which decreases blood glucose levels. However, this treatment has several disadvantages that can affect a patient’s health, and it is often unaffordable for some individuals. Previous studies have suggested that phytochemicals can improve insulin sensitivity. Due to the presence of therapeutic phytochemicals in natural plants, medicinal plants emerge as potential candidates for treating diabetes. In addition, compared to conventional diabetes treatments, phytochemical treatment may be affordable for all diabetics and has fewer side effects. This review primarily focuses on the symptoms and treatment options for the four known types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes mellitus, type 2 diabetes mellitus, type 3c diabetes mellitus, and neonatal diabetes. The article reviews medicinal plants that have been used to treat diabetes effectively with minimum side effects, such as Momordica charantia L., Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels, and Ocimum tenuiflorum L., among others. In addition, some newly approved drugs, such as tirzepatide, sergliflozin, saxagliptin, and liraglutide, recommended for treating patients suffering from various forms of diabetes, are discussed.

Synergistic effect of chitosan immobilized L-asparaginase nanobiocomposite on acrylamide mitigation in fried bitter gourd chips

Synergistic effect of chitosan immobilized L-asparaginase nanobiocomposite on acrylamide mitigation in fried bitter gourd chips

Therapeutic effect of Momordica charantia on cardiomyopathy in a diabetic maternal rat model.

Myocardial structural and functional abnormalities are hallmarks of diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), a chronic consequence of diabetes mellitus (DM). Maternal DM affects and increases the risk of heart defects in diabetic mothers compared with nondiabetic mothers. Momordica charantia exhibits antidiabetic effects due to various bioactive compounds that are phytochemicals, a broad group that includes phenolic compounds, alkaloids, proteins, steroids, inorganic compounds, and lipids. Pregnant maternal rats were split into four groups: control (C), M. charantia-treated (MC), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (DM), and diabetic (MC + DM) groups. Diabetes mothers had increased serum glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterollevels and reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterollevels. Cardiac biomarkers such as cardiac troponin T (cTnT), creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB), and lactate dehydrogenasewere increased. Hormone levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, progesterone, and estrogen decreased significantly. Inflammatory markers such as interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and vascular adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) were elevated in diabetic mothers. Oxidative stress markers indicated increased malondialdehydeand nitric oxidelevels, while antioxidants such as glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalasewere decreased in maternal heart tissue. The levels of apoptotic markers such as tumor suppressor 53 (P53) and cysteine aspartic protease-3 (caspase-3) were significantly greater in diabetic maternal heart tissue. Histopathological analysis revealed heart tissue abnormalities in diabetic maternal rats. M. charantia extract improved maternal diabetes-induced changes in inflammation, antioxidant levels, and heart tissue structure.

Diabetes Management: Herbal Remedies and Emerging Therapies

Abstract: Diabetes is a chronic disease affecting millions worldwide, characterized by inadequate insulin production or malfunctioning insulin action, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Its prevalence is escalating globally, with estimates projecting a rise from 2.8% to over 5.4% of the world's population by 2025. In India, diabetes poses a significant health challenge, especially in urban areas. While conventional medications are widely available, herbal remedies have gained popularity due to their potential for fewer side effects and lower costs. Herbal remedies have been employed for centuries in diabetes management and have been extensively studied for their blood sugar regulatory properties. Prominent herbs studied for their potential to manage diabetes include gymnema, cinnamon, fenugreek, and bitter melon. These herbs are believed to enhance insulin sensitivity, reduce glucose absorption in the intestines, and improve glucose metabolism. This review highlights emerging alternative treatment options, such as stem cell therapy and gene therapy, in the field of diabetes management. Stem cell therapy aims to regenerate insulin-producing cells or enhance their function, while gene therapy targets the underlying genetic factors contributing to diabetes. These innovative approaches hold promise for more effective and personalized treatments in the future. It is essential to emphasize that any diabetes treatment or remedy should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Diabetes management requires a personalized approach based on individual needs and medical history. The integration of herbal remedies and alternative treatment options into conventional diabetes management warrants further research to determine their efficacy, safety, and potential for widespread implementation

Effect of Organic Manure and Inorganic Fertilizer on Growth, Fruit Yield and Quality of Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.)

The experiment was conducted on bitter gourds at the department of horticulture in Shuats, Uttar Pradesh. To find out the effect of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the growth, fruit yield, and quality of bitter gourd with three different varieties: TMBI 1309, TMBI 3346, and VNR 22. Experimental factors included N:P:K(RDF) alone and with the combination of six various treatments, including V1, V2, and V3, i.e., V1+fym (18 t/ha), V1+vermicompost (1.23 t/ha), V1+poultry manure (12.5 t/ha), V1+NPK(100%)+FYM, V1+NPK+VC, and V1+NPK+PM. same as applied for the other two varieties. It revealed that variety V2 (TMBI 3346) was recorded as significantly taller plants (201.71) and also recorded in T7 NPK + PM (210.30 cm), with the earliest 50% male flower initiation (57.52), and hybrid v2 with days to germination (65.09) in T7 (69.87 cm). IT also revealed that V2 was recorded with fruit length (cm), fruit diameter (cm), and fruit weight (kg) of 17.64, 14.40, and 72.78, respectively. Data also revealed that more fruits per plant, yield per acre, and yield per hectare were recorded in TMBI 3346. The hybrid V2 (VNR 22) (1.85) and treatment T7 (NPK (100%) + PM (12.5/ha) recorded (1.65) showed the greatest impact of varieties and treatments on TSS.

The double-layer emulsions loaded with bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.) seed oil protect against dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis in mice

In this study, a whey protein isolate (WPI)-chitooligosaccharide (COS) stabilized bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.) seed oil emulsions (WC-BSOE) were prepared using the electrostatic layer-by-layer self-assembly technique, and their modulating effects on ulcerative colitis (UC) were investigated in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC mice model. The stability and releasing ability of WC-BSOE under simulated gastrointestinal digestion condition and their acute toxicity were also investigated. The results showed that WC-BSOE was stable to droplet aggregation in the simulated gastric and intestinal fluids and exhibited sustained release profile during gastrointestinal transit, evidenced by the measurement of particle size, polydispersity index, zeta-potential and released free fatty acids contents. Moreover, WC-BSOE had no toxic effects on BALB/c mice within the dose range of 40,000 mg/kg body weight (BW), and treatment with WC-BSOE at a dosage of 15 mg/kg BW effectively relieved DSS-induced UC symptoms in mice. Furthermore, WC-BSOE could improve the IL-4 and IgA contents in serum, as well as up-regulate the occludin and ZO-1 expressions and down-regulate MPO, MDA and ROS levels in colon tissues of colitis mice, and it also elevated the diversity and relative abundances of Firmicutes, Bacteroides, and Lactobacillus in the intestinal microbiota. These findings indicated that WC-BSOE exerted protective effects in UC through decreasing proinflammatory cytokines, increasing tight junction proteins, suppressing oxidative stress, and regulating intestinal microbiota. Collectively, this study suggested WC-BSOE might be developed as a promising dietary supplement for UC protection.

The activities of suaveolol and other compounds from Hyptis suaveolens and Momordica charantia against the aetiological agents of African trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis and malaria

African trypanosomiasis and malaria are among the most severe health challenges to humans and livestock in Africa and new drugs are needed. Leaves of Hyptis suaveolens Kuntze (Lamiaceae) and Momordica charantia L. (Cucurbitaceae) were extracted with hexane, ethyl acetate, and then methanol, and subjected to silica gel column chromatography. Structures of six isolated compounds were elucidated through NMR and HR-EIMS spectrometry. Callistrisic acid, dehydroabietinol, suaveolic acid, suaveolol, and a mixture of suaveolol and suaveolic acid (SSA) were obtained from H. suaveolens, while karavilagenin D and momordicin I acetate were obtained from M. charantia. The isolated biomolecules were tested against trypomastigotes of Trypanosoma brucei brucei and T. congolense, and against Plasmodium falciparum. The most promising EC50 values were obtained for the purified suaveolol fraction, at 2.71 ± 0.36 μg/mL, and SSA, exhibiting an EC50 of 1.56 ± 0.17 μg/mL against T. b. brucei trypomastigotes. Suaveolic acid had low activity against T. b. brucei but displayed moderate activity against T. congolense trypomastigotes at 11.1 ± 0.5 μg/mL. Suaveolol and SSA were also tested against T. evansi, T. equiperdum, Leishmania major and L. mexicana but the antileishmanial activity was low. Neither of the active compounds, nor the mixture of the two, displayed any cytotoxic effect on human foreskin fibroblast (HFF) cells at even the highest concentration tested, being 200 μg/mL. We conclude that suaveolol and its mixture possessed significant and selective trypanocidal activity.

Pigmental composition and physico-chemical characteristics of Bittergourd (Momordica charantia L. cv. Jadeite) during postharvest period as influenced by illumination colors

Fruits and vegetables that exhibit a higher chlorophyll content, as reflected in their visual appearance, are the preferred choice of consumers. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) on the physical, chemical, and pigmentation quality of bitter gourd using white, blue, and red at 1.5 W/135 lumens (Foshan Electrical and Lighting Co., Ltd [FSL], China). Bitter gourd, with a short postharvest life of 4-5 days due to physical and chemical disorders, was harvested weighing 300–400 g and 25 x 5 cm from the farm and subjected to varying illuminations within a 4-hour period for five days, with measurements taken daily. Statistical differences between treatments were observed in physicochemical parameters such as fruit shrivelling, yellowing, visual appearance, weight loss, dry matter content, total chlorophyll, pH values, and TA. The quality and shelf-life of bitter gourd fruits were found to be improved by the white LED. The visual appearance was maintained, and fruit shrivelling and yellowing were delayed, with lower weight loss observed. Slight changes in chlorophylls and carotenoids, vitamin C, and a shelf-life of 5 days were recorded.

History of Diabetes: Series 1 Diabetes Care in Antiquity and Beyond: The Preinsulin Era

Diabetes as a disease dates back to ancient times. Before the 1920s, treatment was rudimentary and largely ineffective, focusing primarily on dietary management, herbal remedies, and lifestyle modifications. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, Chinese, and Indians, recognized diabetes through symptoms such as excessive thirst and urination. They used “natural” treatments, such as dietary restrictions, physical exercise, and medicinal herbs such as fenugreek and bitter melon. Islamic scholars in the medieval period made significant advancements, recommending balanced diets and specific herbal treatments. In Europe, the preinsulin era saw the implementation of starvation diets in the early 20th century, aiming to control blood glucose by severely restricting caloric intake, though often at the cost of malnutrition. These historical approaches reflect the evolving understanding of diabetes and underscore the desperate need for effective treatments, setting the stage for the revolutionary discovery of insulin in the early 20th century.

Investigation of the Hypoglycemic Effect of a Bitter Melon Extract in Subjects With Prediabetes: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, and Double-Blind Trial

Investigation of the Hypoglycemic Effect of a Bitter Melon Extract in Subjects With Prediabetes: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, and Double-Blind Trial

Aphrodisiaca Activity of Momordica charantia L. and Areca catechu L. Ethanolic Extract Againts Blood Pressure and Body Weight of White Mile Rats

Advances in the discovery of herbal medicine and the increasing popularity of traditional medicines have made accessto traditional medicines in the market increasingly easier. Bitter melon and areca nut are known to have many benefits and potential as natural medicine. Previous studies has shown the aphrodisiac effects of these two natural ingredients. This research aimed to determine the additional effects, particularly on blood pressure and body weight of rats, when bitter melon and areca nut are administered as aphrodisiacs. Test animal retrieval techniques based on complete randomized design (RAL). Blood pressure was measured using the CODA® instrument on 25 white rats divided into 5 treatment groups, namely the control group (CMC Na 0.5 % 0.5 % w/v), the bitter melon extract group at a dose of 280 mg / kg BW, the areca nut extract group at a dose of 50 mg/kg 50 mg / kg BW, the mixed bitter melon and areca nut extracts group (1: 1), and the X-Gra® group. Blood pressure profiles measured included systolic and diastolic blood as well as changes in rat body weight before and after treatment. The results of the study of systole and diastole blood pressure parameters and rat body weight in groups I, II, III, IV, V analyzed using the Tukey HSD method obtained results that were not significantly different (sig 0.05) in all groups. Based on this study, it was concluded that the aphrodisiac activity of bitter melon and areca nut seeds did not significantly influence changes in blood pressure, systole and diastole, and body weight rats.