New Delhi: Bitter gourd or karela is a nutrient-dense fruit. Enriched with the goodness of vitamins B1, B2, and B3, C, magnesium, folate, zinc, phosphorus, manganese and is rich in dietary fibres.
It is equally known as bitter melon, bitter cucumber, balsam pear, bitter apple, or bitter squash. This vegetable is also called karela in India, nigauri in Japan, goya in Okinawa, ampalaya in the Philippines, and Ku-Gua throughout China.
Here are a few Health Benefits of Bitter Gourd
Controls Diabetes
The presence of significant levels of Charantin (peptides that resemble insulin) and alkaloids in Bitter Gourd function as a vital ingredient in managing diabetes. It tames down the sudden spike in blood sugar levels besides regulating metabolism. It acts as a potent hypoglycaemic agent and rich in soluble fiber, making it an ideal choice of vegetable for diabetics.
Blood Purifier
The strong antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of Bitter Gourd aids in the purification of the blood, which helps in promoting skin health. Bitter gourd is also efficient in curing various skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis.
Boosts Immunity
Bitter Gourd is a powerhouse of antioxidants and it helps in fighting several infections in the body. These antioxidants scout the body for free radicals and other dangerous compounds released during metabolism and destroy them preventing them from causing any illness.
Adding Bitter Gourd to your diet enhances your chances of fighting against various diseases, including heart disease, kidney damage, and liver problem.
Improves Respiratory Health
Numerous studies prove that Bitter Gourd provides relief from respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and rhinitis. It’s anti-histamine, suppressant, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and anti-viral properties make it a perfect booster for respiratory health.
Hemorrhoid Relief
The strong anti-inflammatory properties in Bitter Gourd make it a good lotion for the painful condition of piles. A paste made from the root of the Bitter Gourd plant can be applied externally to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and bleeding. Further on, drinking Bitter Gourd juice provides instant relief from hemorrhoids.
Promotes Skin Health
Regular intake of Bitter Gourd helps in maintaining skin radiance and free from blemishes. The blood purifying properties of Bitter Gourd prevent acne and treats skin diseases like eczema, psoriasis, and other skin infections.
