Abstract

Momordica charantia L. grows in many tropical and subtropical regions, the fruits of which are gradually becoming popular for treating diabetes and associated diseases. Momordica charantia L. appears to be an inimitable species that synthesizes a diverse range of chemical constituents in the fruits, leaves, stem and roots. Over 248 compounds belonging to the lipids, phenolics and terpenoids classes have been reported in various studies. The cucurbitane types of triterpenes exist in various parts of this plant as aglycones as well as glycosylated forms. Momordica charantia L. has been comprehensively studied worldwide for therapeutic properties to treat a number of diseases like diabetes, dyslipidaemia, obesity and certain cancers. The bitter melon seems to exert lipid lowering and antiobesity effects via several mechanisms like PPARs, LXRs, SREBPs, and Sirts-mediated fat metabolism in various tissues, prevent adipocyte hypertrophy and visceral fat accumulation. This article presents an extensive literature review on the vast potential of bitter melon as antiobesity agent with supporting data on complex phytochemistry