Bitter Gourd
Botanical Name: Momordica charantia
Family Name: Cucurbitaceae
Plant Description: Climbing vine with distinct warty fruits
Ecosystem: Tropical and subtropical farms and gardens
Size: Vines can grow over 4 metres
Shape: Twining vine with lobed leaves
Geographical Origin: Asia, Africa
Current Distribution: Asia, Africa, Caribbean
Flower Shapes and Colours: Small yellow flowers
Seed Types and Size: Flat, brown seeds in fleshy fruit
Uses: Food, medicine
Parts Used: Fruit, leaves, seeds
Medicinal Uses: Lowers blood sugar, cleanses blood, supports digestion
Planetary Influences: Saturn
Metaphysical Uses: Detox, emotional release
Elemental Association: Earth