Diabetes mellitus, particularly type 2 diabetes (T2DM), is a global health problem with hyperglycemia,
insulin resistance, and progressive ??cell dysfunction. Current antidiabetic therapies with limitations of
adverse effects, high costs, and poor glycaemic control in certain patients, have limited their efficacy in
the clinical scenario. Medicinal plants and natural products have therefore been the focus of interest as
complementary approaches in diabetes management. One such plant with a long history in traditional
medicine for the treatment of diabetes is Momordica charantia (bitter melon). A rich phytochemical
profile consisting of saponins, polypeptides, flavonoids, and triterpene glycosides, gives it its
therapeutic potential, which is attributed to its enhancing insulin secretion and sensitivity, inhibiting
carbohydrate digesting enzyme action, its influence on lipid metabolism and its antioxidant and anti-
inflammatory properties. Bitter melon was critically reviewed in the context of ethnopharmacological
background, phytochemical constituents, molecular mechanisms, preclinical and clinical evidence,
formulation strategies, and safety considerations in the management of diabetes. We also produce six
summary tables that combine selected study data. While we have good evidence here, there are
important additional trials of standardized extract preparations with fixed doses and duration needed to
establish the best dosing and long-term safety. Overall, Momordica charantia has great potential as a
complementary agent in the integrative management of T2DM.
Keywords: Momordica charantia, bitter melon, diabetes mellitus, hypoglycemic, phytochemicals,
complementary therapy, insulin resistance
Publication date: 01/04/2026
https://www.ijbpas.com/pdf/2026/April/MS_IJBPAS_2026_10032.pdf
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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2026/15.4.10032
