Bitter Melon
Momordica charantia L.
Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) is a climbing vine in the gourd family bearing oblong, warty, deeply ridged green fruit that turns orange-yellow and splits open when fully ripe.
Last reviewed August 8, 2026
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Is Bitter Melon safe to use?
Bitter melon is a genuine pregnancy contraindication — it has documented abortifacient and uterine-stimulant effects in traditional and experimental reports, and should be avoided entirely by pregnant women or those trying to conceive. It can cause additive hypoglycemia when combined with insulin or other diabetes medications; anyone on such medication should monitor blood sugar closely and never adjust medication based on bitter melon alone. People with G6PD deficiency are at risk of hemolysis from the vicine content. Stop use at least 2 weeks before surgery due to blood sugar effects. Children should not be given bitter melon supplements, juice concentrates, or seeds — serious reactions including convulsions and hypoglycemia have been reported. Culinary use of the cooked, deseeded vegetable in ordinary food amounts is considered low-risk; it is medicinal-strength juice, powder, and extract that require real caution.
This is educational information, not medical advice. See our full Disclaimer before use.
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