Croton membranaceus seedlings

Momordica charantia consists of the fresh or dried leaf or fruit of Momordica charantia. It is a very vigorous, annual climbing plant producing stems 5 metres or more long that scramble over the ground or climb up into the surrounding vegetation, supporting itself by means of tendrils. The fruit has a higher nutritional value than many members of this family, mainly due to its iron and vitamin C content. Bitter gourd tea, made from dried fruit pieces, is a popular health drink in Japan and some other Asian countries.

The leaves are antiseptic, blood purifier, febrifuge and vermifuge. An infusion is used in the treatment of intestinal worms, jaundice, malaria and other fever A decoction of the leaves and stems is used to treat diabetes, high blood pressure and biliousness