Karela (Bitter Gourd) (Momordica charantia)

  • Botanical Name & Family: Momordica charantia, Cucurbitaceae (cucumber family) .
  • Plant Description: Vigorous, tendril-bearing, frost-tender annual vine (shoots up to 5 m). Rounded, dark green leaves with palmate lobes. Produces gourd-like yellow flowers. Fruits are cylindrical, warty, ripen from green to yellow to orange, splitting to reveal scarlet arils. Ripe fruits/seeds are toxic.
  • Cultivation Tips: Warm-weather crop, thrives in 24-27 °C. Prefers well-drained sandy loam/clay loam rich in organic matter (pH 6.0-6.7). Sow seeds early/mid-April (soak first). Optimal germination 20-23 °C. Requires sunny, warm, humid locations. Needs constant nutrient supply (liquid fertilizer). Provide trellis. Harvest unripe fruits 2-3 weeks after flowering (less bitter).
  • Ayurvedic Description: Holds significant medicinal value. Packed with nutrients and vitamins (A, C). Beneficial for skin health (blood purification). Manages high blood sugar (due to Tikta (bitter), Deepan (appetizer), Pachan (digestive) properties). Potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic. Supports liver health, digestion, kidney stones. Paste/juice for psoriasis, skin abscesses, dandruff, hair growth. Red-colored seeds should be avoided by children.

Nutritional profile of seasonal vegetable (per 100g raw edible portion):

Vegetable Botanical Name Calories (kcal) Carbohydrates (g) Protein (g) Fat (g) Fiber (g) Key Vitamins Key Minerals
Karela (Bitter Gourd) Momordica charantia 16 / 16 3 / 3 1 / 1 0 / 0 3 / 3 C (130% DV), A (9% DV) Ca, Fe
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