Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Balsam pear (Momordica charantia), also known as bitter melon, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, balsam pear is sometimes used to stimulate the appetite in cases where individuals are experiencing a deficiency or lack of desire to eat. Historical texts and ethnobotanical records document its use as an appetite enhancer, especially for those recovering from illness or suffering from digestive sluggishness. However, modern scientific studies confirming this specific effect are limited or lacking. Most contemporary research on balsam pear focuses on its antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties rather than appetite stimulation. As such, while the traditional use is well established and continues to be practiced in some cultures, the strength of evidence based on modern clinical research is weak. No major clinical trials or systematic reviews have validated its efficacy for increasing appetite, and the mechanisms for this purported effect remain unclear. Therefore, its use for appetite deficiency is justified by tradition rather than scientific validation, and the level of supporting evidence is modest.

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