About Bitter Melon
Bitter melon contains at least three active compounds with glucose-lowering properties: charantin (steroidal saponin), polypeptide-p (plant insulin), and vicine. Used extensively in traditional medicine across Asia, Africa, and South America for blood sugar management. Multiple clinical trials support modest glucose-lowering effects. May cause GI discomfort; should not be used during pregnancy. No established RDA/UL.
What Bitter Melon supports
- Contains charantin and polypeptide-p, which mimic insulin activity
- Used across Asian, African, and South American traditional medicine
- Multiple active compounds target glucose metabolism through different pathways
- Whole-food source with additional micronutrient content
How much Bitter Melon to take
Clinical studies typically use 500–2000 mg of Bitter Melon. Most studies use 500–2000 mg/day of bitter melon extract. Traditional preparations use the whole fruit or juice. Standardized extracts concentrate the active charantin and polypeptide-p compounds.
- Effective range
- 500–2000 mg
Clinical evidence
Moderate clinical evidence. Multiple clinical trials show modest glucose-lowering effects, but study quality is mixed
NIH Fact Sheet