The chemical and pharmacological basis of bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.) as a potential therapy for type 2 diabetes and obesity

Known by its local name as bitter melon, karela or bitter gourd, the edible fruits of Momordica charantia L. (Family, Cucurbitaceae) are becoming increasingly popular for treating diabetes and associated diseases. Displaying over 248 compounds belonging to the lipids, phenolics, terpenoids and alkaloids classes of compounds, this chapter exhibits the unique potential of bitter melon as a source of pharmacologically active natural products. The plethora of animal and cellular models showing the antihyperglycaemic, lipid lowering and antiobesity effects of the plant are exhibited. Active principles ranging from conjugated fatty acids to terpenoids, alkaloids, carbohydrates and proteins are identified. Mechanisms of actions ranging from specific targets in insulin signalling pathways to general anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, carbohydrate digestion inhibitions, and organoprotective effects are presented. The effects of bitter melon preparations in adipogenesis and insulin sensitivity or resistance in vital organs along with activity profile in human subjects are scrutinised.