Balsam pear, also known as bitter melon (Momordica charantia), has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean, for supporting pancreatic health and managing blood sugar levels. Traditional systems such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have utilized bitter melon as a remedy for diabetes and related metabolic disorders. The rationale behind its use is its reputed ability to help regulate blood glucose, which is closely tied to pancreatic function, especially the insulin-producing beta cells located in the pancreas head and body.

While there is a growing body of scientific literature investigating bitter melon’s hypoglycemic effects, the evidence is primarily preclinical, involving animal studies and in vitro research. Some small human studies suggest that bitter melon extracts can modestly lower blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes, but the results are inconsistent and often limited by small sample sizes and methodological weaknesses. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses generally conclude that more rigorous clinical trials are needed before any firm conclusions can be drawn about its efficacy for pancreatic or glycemic support.

In summary, the use of Balsam pear for supporting pancreatic health is primarily based on traditional practices, with a moderate but not robust level of supporting evidence from preliminary scientific research.