Momordica charantia is a tropical vine known by many different names across the globe. 

Some of the names include cerasee, bitter lemon, wild cucumber and bitter gourd. 

Within the Caribbean, it is commonly used to make a tea.  

Despite its bitter taste, cerasee tea is quite popular because of its health benefits. 

We are exploring a few of the health benefits of the cerasee plant. 

Cancer–fighting properties 

Researchers in Taiwan published a report in 2012 that looked at the effectiveness of cerasee in treating cytotoxic activity on four human cancer cell lines. 

They found that cerasee has compounds that may help with fighting cancer cells.  

These cancer cells may be found in the stomach, lung, colon and nasopharynx (the area behind the nose at the back of your throat). 

The studies were conducted using concentrated amounts of cerasee extract.  

Additional research is needed to identify its full effect on cancer cells, when people eat or drink average amounts of the plant.  

Acne treatment  

The study also indicated that cerasee’s antibacterial properties made it potentially useful at managing acne caused by bacterial pathogens. 

The plant extract, according to the results of the study, is useful at managing inflammation caused by the bacterium Propionibacterium acnes.  

Propionibacterium acnes is the bacterium that is responsible for causing treatment-resistant acne. 

Key nutrients 

A cup (94 grams) of cerasee contains vital nutrients including high levels of vitamin C and A, folate, potassium, fibre, zinc and iron.  

Vitamin C helps with bone formation, disease prevention and the healing of wounds while vitamin A promotes healthy vision and skin health. 

Antioxidant properties 

The leaf of the plant is rich in antioxidants that help to protect cells from damage.  

It is an excellent source of gallic acid, epicatechin, catechin and chlorogenic acid, which are all power antioxidant compounds. 

Blood sugar control 

Cerasee has been linked to reducing the blood sugar level in diabetic patients.  

Its hypoglycemic activity has led to the development of supplements that contain Momordica. 

Research indicates that cerasee can reduce blood sugar levels and lower HbA1c in persons with type 2 diabetes. 

HbA1c forms when haemoglobin joins with glucose in the blood. When measured, clinicians get an overall picture of what our average blood sugar levels have been for weeks or months. 

More high-quality research is required to establish erasee’s significance for diabetes treatment further. 

Weight loss  

Cerasee is high in fibre and low in calories which makes it a worthwhile addition to weight loss diets. 

Fibre helps to make us feel fuller longer and reduces hunger. As such, using cerasee in place of other high-calorie ingredients could increase fibre intake, reduce calories and aid with weight loss.  

One study revealed that taking a capsule of 4.8 grams of cerasee each day over a three-month supplementation period also led to a significant reduction in belly fat.  

Participants lost on average, 0.5 inches from their waist.  

Possible side effects 

Cerasee may have side effects for some people.  

If you are taking other diabetic medication, it could cause your blood sugar level to become too low. 

Others may experience an upset stomach. 

Pregnant and breast-feeding women are advised against taking it, as certain chemicals in cerasee could cause bleeding.  

There is insufficient information on the impact it could have on women who breast-feed.  

Finally, if you are preparing for surgery, keep in mind that cerasee may interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. 

There are many other notable uses and health benefits of cerasee.   

The content of this article is for information purposes. Always consult with your doctor and follow the course of treatment that is recommended for you. 

Sources: NCBI, Healthy Eating, Medicinal Herbals, WebMD and Healthline.