Herbs

Bitter melon

Also called: karela, momordica charantia

A bitter gourd (karela).

Why people take it
Blood sugar.
What the evidence says
Small effects on blood sugar; not a replacement for diabetes medicine.
How it is usually taken
As vegetable or juice; extracts 1 to 2 g a day.
Be careful
May cause low blood sugar with diabetes medicines. Avoid in pregnancy.
Medicines it can interact with
Lowers sugar with diabetes medicines; do not give to children.

Other herbs

EchinaceaElderberryGarlic extractGingerPeppermint oilMilk thistleSaw palmettoSt John's wortValerianChamomileLemon balmPassionflowerKavaRhodiolaGinkgoMoringaFenugreekCinnamonBlack seedLicorice

Common questions

What is Bitter melon?

A bitter gourd (karela).

Why do people take Bitter melon?

Blood sugar.

Does Bitter melon work?

Small effects on blood sugar; not a replacement for diabetes medicine.

How much Bitter melon do people take?

As vegetable or juice; extracts 1 to 2 g a day.

Is Bitter melon safe?

May cause low blood sugar with diabetes medicines. Avoid in pregnancy.

Does Bitter melon interact with medicines?

Lowers sugar with diabetes medicines; do not give to children.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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