Bitter Melon
Vitamins C, B's, phosphorous and iron
Contains active compounds said to stabilize blood sugar

Common Name:  Bitter Melon; Bitter Gourd
Botanical Name:  Momordica charantia
Habitat:  Native to South America.

General:  Grown widely through tropical and subtropical regions, Bitter Melon, or Bitter Gourd, as hte name suggests, is a very bitter tasting.  It is used in a variety of prepared dishes and natural remedies.

Nutritional Information:  Bitter melon is very high in a broad array of nutrients, antioxidants, minerals, vitamins and amino acids.  It is very high in beta carotene, potassium, vitamins A, C, and B1 to B3, and phosphorous.  It is high in lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin.  It contains high levels of quinine.

Bitter melon is one of the most used fruits in traditional medicines.  It is used as an anti-virall and anti-fungal. It is reported to have anti-diabetic properties by regulating insulin.  It is also reported to have cardioprotective properties.