Momordica charantia – What are the indications, contraindications, drug interactions?

Momordica charantia (bitter melon) is a bitter digestive stimulant, anti-inflammatory, demulcent, immunomodulator and antidiabetic (fruit). There is a risk of developing favism, and thus Momordica charantia is contraindicated in G6DP deficiency.

Indications:

• DiabetesIntestinal parasites
• Dyspepsia, hypochlorhydria, anorexia
• Biliary insufficiency, biliary dyskinesia
• Atonic constipation

Contraindications:

• Wet cough
• G6PD deficiency
• Gastritis, hyperchlorhydria, peptic ulcer disease, GERD
• Acute cholelithiasis
• Biliary obstruction
• Acute diarrhea
• Pregnancy

Interactions:

• As with all herbs that affect intestinal transit time, Momordica can alter absorption of drugs and should not be taken simultaneously (especially with cardiac glycosides, diuretics, antiarrhythmics, corticosteroids, etc.)

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This post was written by Omar Rifai