Evidence supporting the use of: Momordica (unspecified)
For the health condition: Gonorrhea
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Momordica species, particularly Momordica charantia (bitter melon) and Momordica balsamina (balsam apple), have a history of use in traditional medicine systems across Africa and Asia. Ethnobotanical surveys have documented the use of extracts from these plants to treat sexually transmitted infections, including gonorrhea. For instance, in some regions of Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa, traditional healers prepare decoctions or infusions from the leaves, fruits, or seeds of Momordica species as remedies for gonorrhea and other genital infections.
However, there is limited scientific validation for this traditional use. While a few in vitro studies have investigated the antimicrobial properties of Momordica extracts, the majority of research focuses on their antidiabetic, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects. Studies specifically assessing efficacy against Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the causative agent of gonorrhea, are rare and typically preliminary, with no strong evidence for clinical effectiveness. The traditional use likely stems from the general antimicrobial activity observed in some Momordica extracts, but this has not been rigorously translated to proven benefit in gonorrhea treatment.
In summary, the use of Momordica for gonorrhea is justified mainly by traditional practices, and current scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for this condition is weak or lacking.
Other ingredients used for Gonorrhea
green chirettacat's claw
turmeric
goldenseal
licorice root
phellodendron amurense
vitamin C
papaya
smilax
myrrh
paw paw
indigo leaves
geranium
Allicin
Abrus
Alchornea
Aerva lanata
Agrimonia pilosa
Abuta
Amor seco
Bee Propolis
Bai Ji
Blepharis
Baccharoides anthelmintica
Banyan
Black root
Boerhavia diffusa
Cinquefoil
Chirata
Cynodon dactylon
Embelia
Garlic
Other health conditions supported by Momordica (unspecified)
Abdominal PainAcid Indigestion
Acne
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome
Anemia
Appetite (deficient)
Asthma
Backache
Bladder Infection
Blood Poisoning
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Canker Sores
Cardiovascular Disease
Cholesterol (high)
Colds (general)
Constipation (adults)
Diabetes
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Diphtheria
Eczema
Fatigue
Fever
Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed)
Gastritis
Gonorrhea
Gout
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)
Hepatitis
Herpes