Gōyaa ( Bittermelon)

Momordica charantia | ゴーヤー

Botanical Description
A climbing vine in the gourd family with deeply ridged, warty green fruit and bright yellow flowers. Native to Asia and widely grown in Okinawa.

Parts Used
Fruit, leaves

Energetics
Taste: Bitter
Temperature: Cooling
Affinity: Blood, pancreas, liver, digestion

Actions
Hypoglycemic, blood purifier, digestive stimulant, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial

Traditional Uses
Used in Okinawan dishes like goyā champuru for its bitter flavor and health benefits. Valued for reducing heat, clearing toxins, and supporting longevity.

Modern Applications
Supports blood sugar regulation, insulin sensitivity, liver function, and inflammation. Used in diabetes management and metabolic support.

Contraindications
Not recommended in pregnancy. May interfere with blood sugar medications.

Preparation Methods
Stir-fried, steamed, juiced, tea, capsules

Dose
Food: ½–1 cup cooked
Juice: 30–60 ml/day
Tea or capsule: per product instructions