Bitter melon, also known as bitter gourd or karela (in India), is rich in vital vitamins and minerals.
Hypoglycemic herbs increase insulin secretion, enhance glucose uptake by adipose or muscle tissues and inhibit glucose absorption from intestine and glucose production from liver.
Karela contains three active substances with glucose lowering properties, including charanti, vicine and an insulin-like substance called polypeptide-P.
Bitter melon contains a lectin that reduces blood glucose level by acting on peripheral tissues and suppressing appetite.
Lectin is a major factor behind the hypoglycemic effect after eating bitter melon.
