Bitter melon tea is also known as bitter gourd tea in many parts of the world. Scientifically known as Momordica charantia, the plant produces gourds that resembled fat, bumpy cucumbers.
They also change color to a yellow-orange when they are ready to be harvested. The tea, unlike many other herbal remedies, is produced by steeping multiple parts of the plant, including the seeds, fruit, and leaves.
The impressive list of health benefits of bitter melon tea is mainly due to the high concentration of vitamin A, vitamin C, B-family vitamins, potassium, magnesium, and zinc, as well as the phenolic compounds.
Below are the 7 amazing benefits of drinking this tea:
1. Chronic disease
The high antioxidant levels found in bitter melon tea make it ideal for preventing chronic diseases, such as coronary heart disease, as well as autoimmune diseases. As a full-body tonic, this tea has a wide variety of applications in human health.
2. Metabolic activity
The rich supply of B-family vitamins found in bitter melon makes this tea excellent for stimulating and optimizing the metabolic activities of the body. This can result in a more efficient hormonal and metabolic function, including passive fat-burning.
3. Heart health
Bitter melon tea has been connected to lower triglyceride levels in the body, which means less harmful deposition of cholesterol in the arteries. This can help to prevent atherosclerosis, as well as coronary heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
4. Digestion
This herbal tea has been traditionally used to treat stomach-aches, inflammation in the gut, ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome. This can also help to optimize digestion and increase nutrient uptake while eliminating symptoms of constipation and diarrhea.
5. Detoxify the body
Although an excess of bitter melon tea can result in liver damage and in appropriate amounts can eliminate inflammation of the liver. This not only keeps the liver functioning well but can also moderate liver-induced skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis.
6. Vision health
Notable levels of vitamin A mean that this herbal tea is also excellent for improving vision health. Vitamin A is derived from beta-carotene and acts as an antioxidant that can prevent macular degeneration and slow the development of cataracts.
7. Vitamin C
With high levels of ascorbic acid, bitter melon tea can be very helpful for stimulating the immune system. Vitamin C can increase the production of white blood cells, and also acts as an antioxidant within the body, suppressing oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals.
How to make bitter melon tea
Ingredients
- 2 cups of dried (or fresh) bitter melon
- 2 cups of water (filtered)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (if desired)
Instructions
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To make bitter melon tea, bring the water to a boil in a pot and then add the chopped bitter melon.
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Then, put the lid on the pot and let it boil for 10 minutes at medium heat.
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Turn the heat off and take the pot down from the stove. Allow it to steep for an additional 10 minutes without a lid on top.
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Now strain the mixture into a teapot or glasses
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In the end, add a teaspoon of honey or sugar, if required, and enjoy the hot beverage!
