We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Are the Health Benefits of Bitter Melon?

By Meshell Powell
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 9,457
Share

There are many potential benefits of bitter melon, although a doctor should be consulted before beginning any new herbal treatment. The primary use of bitter melon is the prevention and treatment of diabetes, although it is thought to have several additional benefits as well. This herb may also help to lower cholesterol levels and is thought to reduce cancer risks. Protection from infection is another of the possible benefits of bitter melon due to its natural antiviral and antibacterial properties. Bitter melon is reputed to have antioxidant properties and as such may improve immune system function.

The treatment of diabetes is one of the most well-known benefits of bitter melon. This herb is thought to contain chemicals that resemble a hormone known as insulin. This hormone occurs naturally in the body and is responsible for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Some studies have suggested that long-term use of bitter melon may alleviate the need for prescription insulin among diabetic patients. Bitter melon should be used to treat diabetes only under the direct supervision of a doctor, as it can lower blood sugar levels too much, leading to diabetic coma or death.

Cardiovascular benefits of bitter melon may include lowered cholesterol levels, reduced inflammation, and improved cell health. Regular use of this supplement may also lower blood pressure levels among those with hypertension. Bitter melon is widely believed to stimulate the immune system and assist the body's natural ability to fight infection. The antibacterial and antiviral properties of this herb may also reduce the risks of infection, adding to the potential benefits of bitter melon. The risk of developing certain forms of cancer, especially those involving the digestive tract, may be lowered by the use of a bitter melon supplement.

While the benefits of bitter melon outweigh the potential risks for most people, a doctor should be consulted before beginning treatment with this herb. Abdominal pain, headache, and anemia are possible side effects of bitter melon usage, especially if taken for an extended period of time or in large doses. Historically used to induce miscarriage, this supplement should not be used by women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. Any new or bothersome symptoms that develop after beginning treatment with this herbal remedy should be reported to a doctor for further evaluation. Some medications may not work properly when combined with bitter melon, so the supervising physician should be made aware of any over-the-counter or prescription medications being used.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-health-benefits-of-bitter-melon.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.