A traditional herbal remedy in liver diseases: Momordica charantia L. (kudret narı/bitter melon)
Hepatology Forum, cilt.7, sa.2, ss.154-162, 2026 (Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Derleme
- Cilt numarası: 7 Sayı: 2
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.14744/hf.2025.98035
- Dergi Adı: Hepatology Forum
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Scopus
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.154-162
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Bitter melon, hepatoprotective effect, liver diseases, Momordica charantia, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Gazi Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
The liver is the central organ regulating the body’s metabolism; therefore, liver diseases negatively affect metabolic activities as well as the immune system. Momordica charantia L. is one of the medicinal plants used in folk medicine to prevent or treat liver diseases. M. charantia contains compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that protect liver cells from free radical damage and reduce inflammation. In addition, the phytochemicals of M. charantia may help regulate blood sugar levels, thereby supporting metabolism and reducing fat accumulation in the liver. Previous studies indicate that M. charantia has the potential to enhance liver function while reducing the incidence of fatty liver disease. This study aimed to summarize data from in vivo studies investigating the hepatoprotective mechanisms of M. charantia at various application doses, highlighting its potential as a future dietary supplement candidate. However, due to insufficient evidence regarding its safety, the possibility of hepatotoxic effects should not be disregarded.