Philippines is a tropical country consisting of more than 7,000 islands and has a vast array of medicinal plants. These herbal plants can be seen easily in our backyards and readily available in the market. Medicinal plants are cost effective and widely used even up to these days.

            Bitter gourd locally known as ampalaya is one of the 10 medicinal plants approved by the Department of Health. Scientific name Momordica charantia is a tropical and subtropical vine of the family Cucurbitaceae, and is widely grown in Asia, Africa, Caribbean . It is a staple in Asian cuisine.Though bitter in taste, the plant has various health benefits. Bitter gourd can help reduce blood sugar and promotes the secretion of insulin, which regulates blood sugar levels with the Type II Diabetes Mellitus.  It is pact of vitamins and minerals including iron, magnesium, potassium, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C. It also helps in lowering low -density lipoprotein also known as bad cholesterol reducing the risk if having heart attack. Abundant in antioxidants, bitter gourd helps increase our immune system.it contains anti-histaminic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral properties maintaining good respiratory health. Promoting good digestion and weight loss.

            It may not be appealing in its appearance and taste, bitter gourd is a great help, giving us   abundant nutrients needed by our body. So as early as possible, make it a habit to give our kids vegetables full pact of vitamins like bitter gourd.

By: Mrs. Gale Frances B. Fernandez |