Balsam pear (Momordica charantia), commonly known as bitter melon, has been used in traditional medicine systems in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean, primarily for managing diabetes, gastrointestinal issues, and as a general health tonic. In some folk medicine practices, it has also been used to support cardiovascular health, including the management of hypertension (high blood pressure). The rationale in traditional use is often based on the plant’s purported diuretic and blood-purifying properties, which are believed to help lower blood pressure.

However, scientific evidence specifically supporting the use of balsam pear for hypertension is limited and not robust. A small number of animal studies suggest that extracts of Momordica charantia may have mild antihypertensive effects, potentially through mechanisms such as vasodilation or antioxidant activity. Nevertheless, human clinical trials are scarce and generally underpowered, with most research focusing on its hypoglycemic (blood sugar-lowering) effects rather than antihypertensive efficacy.

Therefore, while there is some traditional precedent for the use of balsam pear in hypertension, and a minor amount of preclinical research, there is insufficient high-quality scientific evidence to support its effectiveness for this condition. Caution is warranted, especially in individuals taking antihypertensive medications, due to potential interactions and the lack of standardized dosing.