Biochemical analysis of the crude extract of Momordica charantia [L.]

ABSTRACT

Momordica charantia [L.] commonly referred as bitter gourd, karela and balsam pear. Its fruit is used for the treatment of diabetes and related conditions amongst the indigenous populations of Asia, South America, India and East Africa. The study was conducted to find out the biochemical aspects of crude extract of whole fruit of M. charantia including seeds which includes blood test [Hemoglobin, RBC, Total leukocyte count, platelets count, HbA1C [Glycocylated heamoglobin Type A1C]], Lipid profile test and electrolyte balance. Hemoglobin [7.1 +/- 0.14], platelets count [827 ×10[9] +/- 1.95], Cholesterol level [111 +/- 2], HDL [high density lipoproteins] [20 +/- 1.22] at 10mg shows marked increase in values as compared to control. While 25 mg dose shows insignificant result. Electrolyte balance are found significant at 10mg and 25mg except bicarbonates [Na[+]=143 +/- 1.87, K[-]=3.45 +/- 0.35, Cl[-] =108 +/- 1.48]. Another important property of M. charantia is the elevation of platelet counts, heamoglobin and specifically high-density lipoproteins [HDL]. It also controls cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL and VLDL at low dosage [10mg]. Further studies can be conducted to find out which phytochemical components acts on specific biochemical activity