Ampalaya-Tea Benefits

Ampalaya tea is a bitter brew made from the ampalaya, or bitter gourd, fruit. The tea may have health benefits, and negative side effects are very rare.

Benefits

Amapalaya stimulates digestion, helping those with dyspepsia or constipation. The tea seems to help people with diabetes mellitus control the disease, and it may provide some antimalarial benefits.

Types

Ampalaya tea is brewed two ways: from dried, whole ampalaya fruits or the leaves of the plant.

Controversies

In 1995 the Philippine Department of Health circular advocated ampalaya supplements as a safe alternative to pharmaceuticals for diabetics. This position was reversed in 2003 after reported deaths of people who had ceased taking their prescriptions for diabetes treatment.

Identification

The ampalaya fruit is also known as bitter melon, bitter gourd, or Momordica charantia Linn. It is a green, wrinkly, cylindrical fruit with a bitter flavor. The tea appears as dry, brown pieces, and is sold loose or in tea bags.

Warning

Amapalaya tea may worsen ulcers or heartburn. Diabetics should not cease taking medications without consulting a doctor.

References

• Philippines Department of Health Circular # 168-A
• Article from Philippine News publication
• Article from Agri Business Week

Resources

• Ampalaya to treat diabetes