Momordica Charantia L. Phytoconstituents and Pharmacological Applications-A Critical Review

Medicinal plants have been used for therapeutic applications since ancient times. In folk medicine, plants are used in various forms, either directly, in isolation, or in concentration of active substances. Momordica charantia L. (bitter melon) is a popular bush used as a folk medicinal in treating various diseases with its rich bioactive ingredient. The plant has general pharmacological potential, including antioxidant, anti-diabetic, hypoglycemic, anthelmintic, antimicrobial, antimalarial, anti-HIV, antitumor, antiviral, anticancer, and phytochemical activities. This critical review provides a brief overview of the phytochemical and pharmacological applications of Momordica charantia.