An in vitro Study on the Effect of Momordica charantia on Glucose Uptake and Glucose Metabolism in Rats.

The effect of extracts of MOMORDICA CHARANTIA L. fruits on glucose metabolism and glucose uptake was investigated. The fruit of momordica, at all ripening stages, was found to contain two inhibitory compounds: one against hexokinase activity and the other against glucose uptake by rat intestinal fragments. Both inhibitions exhibit competitive profiles VERSUS glucose. The inhibitory factors are extractable in hot water, hot alcohol and hot acetone. A partial purification procedure by TLC for both inhibitors is described.