Ampalaya (bitter melon, kugazi, Balsam pear) (fruit) (Momordica Charantia)
The most bitter food on earth, commonly eaten by one-fifth of the people on earth, and a mainstay of healers in China, Japan, India, (used at Mother Teresa's cancer and leprosy clinics, (first Ayurvedic uses recorded 1,000 BC), Africa, Philippines, the Caribbean, Central and South America, and recently in America, (now served in Hollywood juice bars). It is often eaten for detoxification and for relief of hepatitis and neuromuscular situations. It is Scientifically acknowledged for its liver cleansing characteristics, increased blood oxygen delivery and parasite ridding qualities (round worm, ringworm, malaria and others). Enthusiasts declare increased energy, reduced aches and pains and enhanced sense of well-being. For the natives of the Yucatan, this translates to "aphrodisiac".
Enthusiasts note a more beautiful skin and clearing of acne and psoriasis. For dieters and diabetics, it is a source of an insulin-like substance, polypeptide-P, and also is noted to increase pancreatic beta cells, source of the body's own insulin - ultimately moderating blood sugar and temperament as well as reducing sugar cravings for naturally reducing body fat.
Long used elsewhere as an immune system tonic, a 1983 UCLA and Kansas State University collaboration reported anti-tumor activity. (A view made popular in certain alternative healing circles by Hulda Clark's book, draws a connection between parasites and cancer.) Further, a 1990, New York University School of medicine report identified a specific protein in bitter melon called MAP-30, as an "inhibitor of HIV infection and replication." Enthusiast's, since eating bitter melon on a daily basis, report substantial to dramatic increases in immune factors across the board - Perhaps a reason why it is also regarded as a tonic for colds and flu.
4:1 extract. Polypeptide - P, the protein MAP 30, beta carotenes, calcium, iron and other minerals, vitamin B complex and C