Evidence supporting the use of: Momordica (unspecified)
For the health condition: Hepatitis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Momordica species, particularly Momordica charantia (bitter melon), have a long history of use in traditional medicine systems across Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. In these traditions, preparations from the fruit, seeds, or leaves have been used to "cleanse the blood," treat liver ailments, and support overall liver health, including hepatitis. Ethnobotanical surveys and records indicate use for "yellowing of the eyes," "liver inflammation," and "jaundice," symptoms often associated with hepatitis. In Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, bitter melon is sometimes included in herbal formulas for jaundice and other hepatic conditions.

However, scientific studies directly examining the efficacy of Momordica extracts for hepatitis in humans are extremely limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that certain compounds in Momordica (such as charantin, momordicin, and various flavonoids) possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which could, in theory, be hepatoprotective. A few animal studies have shown reduced liver enzyme levels and improved liver histology after administration of bitter melon extracts in chemically-induced liver injury models. Nonetheless, there is a lack of robust clinical trials in humans with hepatitis, and the existing scientific evidence is preliminary and indirect.

In summary, while the use of Momordica for hepatitis is well-documented in traditional medicine, it has not been validated by strong scientific evidence. Its use for hepatitis is therefore justified primarily by traditional practice rather than rigorous scientific validation.

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