Karela (Wild Bitter Gourd) of Thar Desert

Type: Vegetable of Creeper type plant

Scientific Name: Momordica charantia

Local Name: Karela

Name in English: Bitter melon; Bitter apple; Bitter gourd; Bitter squash; Balsam-pear

Name in Urdu: Karela (کریلا)

Name in Punjabi: Karela (ਕਰੇਲਾ)

Name in Hindi: Karela (करेला)

Name in Arabic: Alhanzil (الحنظل)

Name in Gujarati:  kārelũ (કારેલું)

Name in Sindhi: Karelo (ڪريلو)

Name in Sanskrit: Karvelah

Usage and Benefits: Wild Bitter Gourd (or Karela in Local language) is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. It generally contains iron, magnesium, potassium and vitamins like A and C. It contains calcium twice that of spinach and beta-carotene of broccoli. It also includes various anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

It supports in lowering the bad cholesterol levels, thus reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. It strengthens the immune system, improves respiratory health, boosts skin health and contains anti-ageing properties. 

Bitter gourd contains polypeptide, an insulin-like compound called and charantin, which has anti-diabetic properties that can help in reducing the blood sugar levels. 

It also contains fiber and is low in glycemic index, which helps in lowering the blood sugar level. Bitter gourd is low in calories, fat and carbohydrates which help in weight management of human body. 

Creeper type plant holding Wild Bitter Gourd (Karela)

Wild Bitter Gourd (Karela)

Branches with leaves and flowers of plant Wild Bitter Gourd (Karela)