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SPECIALTY

Bitter Melon (Momordica)

Blood sugar support

MODERATE EVIDENCEVEGANREAD THE RESEARCH37 CLINICAL STUDIES
Written to our editorial standards · reviewed against published research· Updated 5 Jun 2026
Last reviewed: May 30, 2026
QUICK ANSWER

Bitter Melon: Blood sugar support. A traditional Asian fruit studied for supporting healthy blood sugar through compounds that mimic insulin's action. Standard dose 500-1,000 mg, taken in the midday, about $14/month. Evidence rating: moderate evidence.

Where to buy

NUTRICOSTBitter Melon120 CAPSULESDIETARY SUPP.
RECOMMENDED
Nutricost, Bitter Melon
500-1,000 mg · Midday · ~$14/month

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All product options

NUTRICOSTBitter Melon120 CAPSULESDIETARY SUPP.BESTSELLER
Bitter Melon
Nutricost
120 capsules · $16 · ★ 4.5
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HIMALAYABitter Melon (Karela)60 CAPLETSDIETARY SUPP.BEST VALUE
Bitter Melon (Karela)
Himalaya
60 caplets · $13 · ★ 4.5
Buy on iHerb →Buy on Amazon →
SOLARAYBitter Melon100 VEG CAPSDIETARY SUPP.PREMIUM
Bitter Melon
Solaray
100 veg caps · $14 · ★ 4.4
Buy on iHerb →Buy on Amazon →
SWANSONBitter Melon60 CAPSULESDIETARY SUPP.PREMIUM
Bitter Melon
Swanson
60 capsules · $9 · ★ 4.4
Buy on iHerb →Buy on Amazon →

What is Bitter Melon?

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) is a knobbly green gourd used as both food and medicine across Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean, traditionally for blood sugar. It contains compounds, including charantin and an insulin-like protein, that appear to improve how cells take up glucose. Clinical trials are mixed but several show modest reductions in blood-sugar markers, positioning it as a gentle metabolic support rather than a replacement for medication. Anyone already on blood-sugar-lowering drugs should monitor for additive effects, and it should be avoided in pregnancy. It is taken as the dried fruit, juice, or a standardized extract, commonly 500 to 1000 mg before meals.

WHY IT MATTERS

A traditional Asian fruit studied for supporting healthy blood sugar through compounds that mimic insulin's action.

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Common questions

What is Bitter Melon?
Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) is a knobbly green gourd used as both food and medicine across Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean, traditionally for blood sugar. It contains compounds, including charantin and an insulin-like protein, that appear to improve how cells take up glucose. Clinical trials are mixed but several show modest reductions in blood-sugar markers, positioning it as a gentle metabolic support rather than a replacement for medication. Anyone already on blood-sugar-lowering drugs should monitor for additive effects, and it should be avoided in pregnancy. It is taken as the dried fruit, juice, or a standardized extract, commonly 500 to 1000 mg before meals.
What is Bitter Melon used for?
Blood sugar support. A traditional Asian fruit studied for supporting healthy blood sugar through compounds that mimic insulin's action.
What is the standard dose of Bitter Melon?
500-1,000 mg, typically taken in the midday. Approximate cost is $14 per month.
Who should avoid Bitter Melon?
Use extra caution, and speak to a clinician first, if you are pregnant or nursing.
How strong is the evidence for Bitter Melon?
Moderate evidence for its primary uses. See the full study list on the research page.

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