Cerasee

At a Glance

Common name

Cerasee

Scientific name

Momordica charantia

Family

Cucurbitaceae

Region

Caribbean / Tropical Asia

Plant part

Leaves, Young fruit

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A climbing vine with deeply lobed palmate leaves, small yellow flowers, and a warty elongated green-yellow gourd fruit; the leaves and young fruit are used.

Also known as: Bitter Melon, Bitter Gourd, Cerasee Bush

Historical Background

Cerasee (bitter melon) has been a Caribbean, Asian, and African folk herb for centuries, its leaves and fruit brewed into a bitter 'blood-purifying' and digestive tea. In the Caribbean, 'cerasee bush tea' is a cultural household cup, sipped for cold season and cleansing traditions.

Earliest recorded uses: Caribbean, Asian, and African traditions for centuries; a bitter 'blood-purifying' and digestive leaf tea.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Bitter, green, earthy, slightly metallic

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Cerasee has a tradition as a bitter digestive, 'blood-purifying,' and blood-sugar tea; preclinical and small trials show modest glucose-lowering and antioxidant activity. Clinical evidence is insufficient; it is not a treatment for diabetes, infection, or any disease, though it remains a culturally important bitter cup.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.