Vertical gardening of the site allows you to disguise the ugly corners of the garden, and the main helpers in this are vines. Among plants of this type, Momordica stands out favorably, the cultivation of which is no more difficult than growing cucumbers. An exotic guest is still rarely found in gardens, but some summer residents have already appreciated its high decorative qualities and unusual taste. useful fruits... We'll talk about growing Momordica seedling method, cuttings, as well as the care of a tropical guest.
Description and varieties
Momordica is included in the Pumpkin family, the genus contains about 20 species of tropical herbaceous vines. Popularly nicknamed it yellow cucumber, mad melon or Indian pomegranate. The motherland of Momordika is India and Southeast Asia, where fruits and leaves are used in folk medicine, and traditional dishes are prepared from them.
As a vegetable and decorative crops two representatives of the genus are grown:
- momordica harantia;
- momordika kokhinkhinskaya.
In our gardens, the first variety is more common - charantia. It forms long and slender shoots, reaching lengths of over two meters. Simple stems have a pentahedral cross-section, equipped with antennae. The shape of the leaf blades is reniform or round. The leaf is deeply dissected into 5-9 lobes. The leaves reach a length of 10 cm and a width of 12 cm, are arranged on the stem in the next order.
Simple yellow flowers, reminiscent of cucumber, are located in the axils of the leaves. They sit on long pedicels, appear during active growth of lashes. Flowers are divided into male and female. During flowering, the garden is filled with a delicate fragrance similar to that of jasmine. Momordica is pollinated by insects.
When grown indoors, artificial pollination will be required to form fruit.
Elongated green fruits grow up to 15-40 cm long and 5-8 cm wide. The surface of the skin is covered with tubercles and papillae, reminiscent of the skin of a crocodile. Vegetables are fusiform, cylindrical, or oval.
As it ripens, the color of the crop changes to yellow-orange. When fully ripe, the fruit bursts from below, opening into three pointed fleshy lobes. Orange flesh and large ruby seeds are exposed.
Growing Momordica seedlings
It is quite simple to settle a tropical liana on your plot or balcony. Growing a crop from seeds will not cause difficulties even for beginners in gardening.
The time of sowing seeds for seedlings depends on the region where Momordica is grown and the further conditions for its growth. She begins to bear fruit after 60 days from the first shoots. The seedling period lasts half of this period - 30 days. Momordica seeds for seedlings are sown in March.
Proper seed preparation is the key to fast growth and healthy seedlings. The seed coat of Momordica reliably protects the embryo; it is not easy to achieve germination without preliminary preparation.
Before sowing, the seeds need preparation, which includes the following steps.
- Scarification. The procedure serves to break the integrity of the seed coat and stimulate germination. Rub the seeds gently with sandpaper.
- Disinfection. Protects seedlings from fungal infection. Processing is carried out by soaking in a pink solution of potassium permanganate for 20 minutes or fungicide (according to the instructions). After soaking, the seed is washed in clean water.
- Soaking in a growth promoter. Accelerate the process of awakening the seed and the emergence of sprouts. Usually a solution of potassium humate is used.
- Germination. After performing the described manipulations, place the momordica seeds in a damp cloth and keep in a warm place at a temperature above 25 ° C. The sprouts will appear in 2 weeks.
Choose only ripe seeds that are reddish brown in color.
Like other members of the Pumpkin family, Momordica prefers organic-rich, loose and nutritious substrates. For growing seedlings, a soil mixture based on humus, garden soil, sand and peat is suitable. The components must be taken in equal proportions, after steaming the garden soil.
Since Momordica has an underdeveloped root system rod type, cultivation is carried out in individual containers to exclude the picking process. It is advisable to select peat pots or cups with a volume of about 300 ml (diameter - 9-10 cm).
Sowing momordica seeds for seedlings is performed according to the following instructions.
- Fill the peat glasses with soil mixture, not reaching the edge of 2 cm.
- Make a 2 cm deep hole in the center of each pot.
- Place the sprouted seeds with an edge, cover the hole with soil.
- Gently pour the container, cover with foil or glass and set in the most warm place apartments. Optimum temperature content - 22-26 ° C.
Seedlings will appear only after 1-2 weeks, the first watering after sowing is carried out in 2-3 days. Until the seedlings appear, the shelter is daily wiped from condensate droplets, the soil is kept moist.
Momordica seedlings during cultivation are protected from drafts and waterlogging. The temperature background for the harmonious development of seedlings should be at least 25 ° C.
Do not place pots close to glass. Leaves from contact with a cold surface will lose their decorative effect, they can get sick with a fungus.
Keep the soil well moistened, but avoid stagnant water after watering. Water the momordica only with warm, settled water. Seedling care necessarily includes double feeding. Alternate between the full mineral complex and organic matter (humates).
Disembarkation to a permanent place
The readiness of Momordika seedlings for planting is indicated by the development of a bush to a height of 25 cm. It will reach such dimensions a month later from full shoots.
Transplanting Momordica into open ground is possible only after the return frost has receded. The air should warm up to 20-22 ° C, and the soil at a depth of 10 cm - up to + 15 ° C. In Central Russia, the event is held in the third decade of May. For Siberia and the Urals, the landing dates are shifted to June 5–10. In case of sudden bad weather, it is better to protect delicate seedlings with a temporary shelter. Momordica can be transplanted into a greenhouse 2 weeks earlier.
The plot for growing Momordica is selected even and sunny, with a slight shade in the midday heat. Low-lying areas are not suitable for cultivation. If you are going to plant a vine there, take care of good drainage, plant it on a "pillow" 30-40 cm high.
Momordica seedlings develop well on light loams enriched with organic matter. The area where potatoes, legumes, tomatoes, siderates used to grow is best suited.
10-14 days before planting, the site for growing Momordica should be prepared:
- dig up the soil;
- remove rhizomes of perennial weeds;
- add humus or compost at the rate of 3-5 kg per square meter;
- add 20-30 g of potassium chloride, superphosphate and ammonium nitrate per square meter;
- add lime during re-digging or dolomite flour and some sand to improve breathability.
The grown bushes are transplanted together with peat glasses into holes of such depth that the container will fully fit. From plastic cups Momordica is removed very carefully, trying not to violate the integrity of the earthen coma. Install the root system in the hole, add soil. After compaction, pour gently. When planting, observe the distance between the bushes 0.6-1 m.
Caring for momordica in the garden
Taking care of momordica in the garden is very simple: the same agricultural rules apply to it as for growing other members of the pumpkin family.
- Support installation
To ensure the harmonious development of Momordica, immediately after planting, install a support next to the bushes. It is best to use a vertical trellis for growing, in which the lower crossbar is located at a height of 80-90 cm.
The support will not only protect the fragile stems of Momordica from fracture, but also provide uniform illumination of the bush and ventilation. This will serve as protection against fungal diseases.
- Bush formation
To enlist good harvest, during cultivation, the Momordica bush is formed. Thickening will have a bad effect on the quality of the crop, therefore 2-3 stems are left, and the remaining lashes are removed. Provide good ventilation the root zone, removing all leaves and stepchildren to a height of 50 cm.
This is done after the appearance of the first ovary. This period is associated with protective mechanism momordiki - all aerial parts of the bush are covered with small stinging hairs. During the first thinning, you should protect the skin from contact with stems and leaves, otherwise you will get a burn, like from nettles. By the time of fruiting, the protection "turns off", the hairs fall off.
- Irrigation mode, top dressing
Like cucumbers, momordica is very fond of abundant watering. In the heat, irrigation is carried out daily, pouring a bucket of water under each bush. Rely on weather conditions, water the plantings as the topsoil dries.
During cultivation, a full mineral complex or mullein infusion is added every two weeks. It is advisable to alternate organics and minerals. Momordica and folk recipes that are applicable to cucumbers are suitable - watering with serum, garden infusion.
- Artificial pollination
V open ground You will not have any problems with fruiting momordica, but when growing in a greenhouse or on a balcony, you will have to work hard, turning into a bee. Arm yourself with a cotton swab or soft brush and gently transfer the pollen from the male flowers to the pistil of the female flowers.
Artificial pollination is best done in the early morning, at which time the viability of the pollen is at its maximum.
Disease and pest control
While growing a crop, you can face some problems. Momordica is threatened by the same diseases as its pumpkin relatives:
- bacteriosis;
- powdery mildew;
- septoria.
Of lovers juicy greenery aphids can encroach on the bush. Fungal infections are treated by adjusting the irrigation regime. After removing the affected parts, the momordica should be treated with a fungicide solution. You can get rid of aphids with the help of an infusion of garlic or a systemic insecticide. The first option is preferable if you are growing a crop for harvesting fruits.
Harvesting and storage of crops, useful qualities of fruits
Harvesting begins 8-10 days after the formation of the ovary. Momordica tastes like a cross between persimmon and pumpkin. The pulp of the green "cucumber" is devoid of bitterness, crunches appetizingly. Unripe fruits are eaten fresh, pickled, used to prepare snacks.
The bright yellow Momordica fruit is bitter, but the bitterness can be removed by soaking in salted water. The fruits are boiled or stewed. The bright pericarp of seeds is also eaten, after ripening it becomes sweet. In addition, Momordica flowers, leaves and stems are also eaten. They are suitable for preparing vitamin salads or dressing green soups. Vegetables are kept in the refrigerator for about three weeks.
Momordica is incredibly helpful! It helps to produce insulin, lower blood sugar levels, and eliminate plaque cholesterol. The substances contained in the vegetable stimulate the digestive tract. Scientists claim that the juice of this exotic is capable of suppressing cancer cells and even treating HIV. Momordica is rich in iron, potassium, "vitamins of youth", calcium, beta-carotene.
Reproduction of Momordica by cuttings
Momordica propagates quite easily by cuttings. Cuttings can be harvested throughout the growing season. For cultivation, the top of the whip with a length of at least 10 cm is rooted in water or a peat-sand mixture.
Cuttings are covered with cuttings before the formation of roots. plastic bottles to maintain high humidity and temperatures below 23-25 ° C. After the formation of the root lobe, the cutting is planted in open ground. To speed up adaptation for the first time after disembarkation, they maintain a shelter.
Having met Momordika, you probably want to grow such an unusual and useful decoration for your garden. A spectacular representative of the flora will delight you with abundant fruiting, if you take proper care of it and pay due attention to growing seedlings.
Walking through the market or agro store, you probably heard such a name as "Momordika". This exotic fruit is also called Indian cucumber, Chinese pumpkin or bitter melon. So what exactly is it? In fact, it is a genus of annual herbaceous plants of the pumpkin family. It grows in tropical regions of Africa, Asia and Australia. The area of application affects both cooking and cosmetology and medicine. More information about medicinal properties ah, we will consider contraindications and application below.
Momordica medicinal properties and contraindications
There are a great many reviews on the topic of momordica, medicinal properties and contraindications, since it was originally used as food and affected only the narrowly focused field of medicine. The real healing properties were discovered quite recently.
Healing properties
There are a lot of reviews on Momordika's healing properties. If earlier it was used only in cooking and traditional medicine, now it has gained great popularity both in herbal medicine and in conventional medicine. You should be aware of the following medicinal properties:
1. Has the ability to regenerate cells. Useful for diseases of the central nervous system.
2. At the initial stage of diseases of the stomach and intestines, broths based on Momordica can replace antibiotics.
3. Contains great amount useful chemical and mineral substances. For example: silicon, copper, zinc, vitamins C and E. Folic and niacin.
4. Increases immunity and saturates the body with the necessary components.
Contraindications
Should be given Special attention the subject of momordica contraindications in order to avoid an allergic reaction and unwanted side effects:
1. Use during pregnancy is strictly prohibited, because it can provoke premature birth. Momordica is also undesirable when feeding.
2. Individual intolerance. If you have allergies or itching, you need to see a specialist.
3. In some cases, preparations not based on the fruit can cause exacerbation of gastrointestinal tract disease.
Types of Momordika
Momordica has about 20 different types, differing from each other in color, smell and taste. All of them have special properties and contain healing ingredients that support the body. Studying the area of application, we can conclude that this is a very multifaceted product, since not only a useful medicinal drug can be made from it, but also wonderful dishes.
Smelly
Momordica smelly got its name from the smell it emits when the fruit is damaged or opened. This liana-like plant reaches seven or even eight meters in length.
Balsamic
Momordica Balsamic is used in cooking more often than other varieties. Firstly, it is the most fertile species that is capable of producing a crop weighing 60 kg. and more.
A wonderful healthy oil.
Kokhinkhinskaya
Momordika Kokhinkhinskaya (dr. Gak) is a happy owner of a bright orange color, which is why it vaguely resembles an orange. In this case, the seeds have the greatest value, since such an amount of carotene is not present in a single product.
Momordica recipes - how to eat momordica
There are a lot of ways to use Momordika. Such a rich variety of recipes is due to the fact that this vegetable is prepared in many countries of the world, and some dishes based on it are national. Due to the amazing taste similarity with walnut The seeds are often added to baked goods. As for the fruits, only unripe fruits are used in cooking. This is due to the bitterness present in mature specimens.
Application in traditional medicine
This is a very wonderful plant because as a medicine, all its parts can be used, namely: leaves, roots, seeds, fruits and flowers. Especially effective for the body in dried form. Greatly helps in winter with vitamin deficiency, because possesses a storehouse of medicinal properties.
Momordica infusion for weight loss
Infusion from Momordika not only increases the protective function of the body, but also speeds up the metabolism. If you drink the infusion daily in the morning and in the evening on a fasting person, the result will be noticeable very soon, because it will help to remove excess fat. Recipe: pour 20 g of seeds with 250 ml. hot water... Cook over low heat for 10-15 minutes. Put a container with the resulting broths for infusion in a dark, dry place for 2-3 hours. Then strain.
With diabetes
Thanks to quarantine, which is abundant in the pulp of the fruit, momordica is used quite often in diabetes mellitus. The fact is that this substance lowers sugar and stabilizes the pancreas, which in turn is responsible for the production of insulin. From the leaves of bitter melon, you can make a decoction, tea or coffee. Cooking method:
1 tsp Pour the chopped raw materials with one glass of hot water and leave for about half an hour. Tea is best drunk neat, without any additives.
Momordica during pregnancy
During pregnancy, you should refrain from using any type of momordica, as it can cause uterine contraction and provoke a miscarriage.
How to grow momordica
Momordica is so unpretentious in cultivation and care that it is not difficult to grow it at home. This is due to its heat resistance and structure. Outwardly reminiscent of a liana, bitter melon can be used to decorate fences, gazebos and open terraces. Below will be described in detail how best to grow it.
Growing
The healing vine is usually planted in mid-spring. In order for the sprouted stem to be strong and the harvest to be rich, you should arrange regular top dressing of the soil. When growing it, the amount of fertilizer applied is calculated depending on the size of the planting capacity and the amount of land. This plant possesses unique ability grow quickly, so the vine needs to be periodically transplanted into a deeper pot.
Landing
Those who have experience planting pumpkins or squash will find it much easier. The thing is that the planting techniques for these crops are almost identical. True, there are several important nuances to consider when planting Momordica. For planting, it is best to choose Harantia or Balsamic pear.
Instructions:
- 1. Before planting, the seeds should be soaked for half an hour in a disinfectant solution.
- 2. Wrap in a napkin soaked in water and honey and put in a warm place.
- 3. After a day, take the seeds and scratch the shell a little for faster growth of future shoots. After completing the procedure, put back in a warm place.
- 4. Wait for the sprouts to appear. This usually happens after 2-3 weeks.
- 5. Place the sprouted seeds in the ground. Add humus and sod (1: 3).
- 6. At the end of the procedure, sprinkle with sand on top, water, cover the crops and place near warm battery.
- 7. After two days, repeat the watering procedure, open the crops and place them on the windowsill.
Seeds
Relatively large seeds (10-14 mm long, 9-10 mm wide) are flat in shape with uneven edges and a rough surface. Both sides of the seed are covered with an unusual pattern. The most interesting thing is that the pattern is always different in structure, and in style it resembles an Indian ornament.
As a raw material for sowing, you need to choose dark seeds, since the light ones have not yet fully ripened, because of which the sprouts may not sprout.
Momordica compositum instructions for use
It is a hemeopathic drug based on medicinal plants... Excellent antispasmodic and analgesic.
Indications:
- Acute pancreatitis;
- Chronic pancreatitis;
- Dispancreatism;
- Other diseases of the pancreas.
Contraindications:
- Allergy;
- During pregnancy;
- Hyperthyroidism (Thyroid Disease).
If you are well acquainted with the contraindications, you should read the Momordica compositum instructions for use:
Compositum solution is administered intramuscularly, subcutaneously, intravenously and intradermally. The course of treatment lasts from 3 to 5 weeks. Adults are prescribed 1 ampoule 2-3 times a week, and children from 2 to 7 years old ½ ampoule 1-3 times a week. If the child is less than two years old, a ¼ ampoule is prescribed.
Very often we hear the names unusual plants, and every time we turn to the Internet in search of answers. Surely somewhere in the market or in conversation, many have heard such a word as momordica. So, it is in this article that we will try to tell in a very accessible way about all the charms, disadvantages, benefits, as well as how to grow momordica at home, because its application can be quite wide.
Momordika description
Momordica is an extraordinary and very useful plant, from the genus Pumpkin... Also, in order not to memorize this word, people began to call her easier, chinese bitter melon... But when we say "melon" we imagine our melon, yellow and smooth, and momordica is a completely different melon. Firstly, it differs significantly in size, appearance and taste, and secondly, it is more a cucumber than a melon. And the taste is somewhat reminiscent of a very ripe pumpkin, but gives off a little bitterness (that is, a plant for an amateur).
So let's take it all in order. In size, momordica can be compared to a thick cucumber. If momordica is ripe, then its color should be pumpkin or bright orange, and green should be the color of a cucumber.... Also on momordica there are quite large and noticeable pimples (like on the skin of a crocodile).
And speaking of the names of momordiki, there are quite a few of them: yellow cucumber (Indian), crocodile cucumber, mad melon, Indian pomegranate, balsamic pomegranate and many other original and funny names.
Momordica is herbaceous climbing vine that loves moisture. In structure, its leaves are somewhat similar to grape leaves, but carved. It has very beautiful yellow five-petal flowers. I would like to draw attention to the taste of Momordica, because she really has it very interesting - a mix of cucumber and pumpkin.
Momordica medicinal properties
They say that in Ancient China Momordika was allowed to be eaten only by the emperor and his family, in Japan the plant was considered food for long-livers, and in ancient India - food of the gods. It can also be assumed that such popularity and high cost of this plant is due to the heap nutrients and healing properties in it:
- In such small plant there is a huge pile of proteins, carbons, sugars.
- A wide variety of vitamins (group B, vitamin E, vitamin C, carotene and many others).
- Promotes an accelerated metabolism.
- This useful and healing fruit is recommended for weight loss.
- Treats hemorrhoids.
- Strengthens the immune system, especially in children.
- Helps with cancer.
- Treats any viral disease.
- Burns body fat effectively.
- Fights leukemia.
- Reduces cholesterol.
You can list many more various useful properties, such as: help with stomach diseases, heart, diabetes, eye diseases, hepatitis, furunculosis, skin diseases, depression, helps to cleanse blood vessels, etc. In general, not in vain Japanese people call momordika a plant for centenarians.
But if this fruit is really so useful and practically cures all diseases at any age, then why is it not added to drugs and doctors do not prescribe it to patients? Everything is very simple: only a few know about this plant. And we all know that no pharmacist will add such a cheap remedy to medicines, because it is better to add an expensive remedy, but which will not cure, but will relieve pain, and then the patients will come for the supplement, which will bring profit to pharmaceutical companies. Still, it should be noted that the use of momordica in medicine is still there. And such drugs contribute to your longevity and, accordingly, slow down aging.
Those who know about this miraculous fruit-vegetable begin to grow it in their garden. But the climate is not always suitable, so Momordica requires your attention and time spent.
Growing momordica in the garden yourself
As mentioned above, momorodica is a useful plant from the genus Pumpkin, then, accordingly, its cultivation is not very different from sowing a pumpkin. But without seedlings, growing will take much longer. Therefore, let's start with her.
Seedling
Again, the seeds should be prepared in order for the fruit to appear as quickly as possible. To do this, you need to do scarification, rub the tip of the seed with sandpaper or a nail file. But, you need to damage the skin of the seeds quite a bit, and not make a hole in them. This is called scarification.... Thanks to this, the seed will receive more moisture during watering and will be able to open up better.
- Soak the seeds in a potassium permanganate solution for 2 hours.
- Rinse the seeds well after potassium permanganate.
- Put the seeds in a small amount of damp sawdust; you can also replace the sawdust with, for example, a wet cloth. Place this construction in a warm but not dry place.
After such a procedure, the seeds sprout almost immediately.
After the seeds have opened, we sow each separately in pots or cups for seedlings. The soil should be a mixture of peat, sand, humus, leafy earth. The pots should be in a warm place not lower than +22 degrees Celsius. And at the same time, it should not be allowed to dry out.
As soon as shoots appear, move the pots to the window and lower the temperature to 16 degrees Celsius. Then return them to a constant temperature zone of 22 degrees Celsius. But don't stop watering them all the time.
Planting in soil
Disembarkation starts in late May or early June, when there is still a threat of night frosts, since for a good brood momordike needs to be "hardened". The main thing here is not to damage the earthen ball in order to avoid breaking weak roots. It is very important that the soil temperature is not lower than +10 degrees Celsius. Otherwise, the vine may die, and all our efforts were in vain.
Your the soil should be light and fertile enough... And, as mentioned above, the plant loves moisture very much, so you will have to water it often, necessarily warm water, room temperature... It would also be nice to feed with special organic feedings. It is worth noting that the fruit is very well accepted in the soil where vegetables (tomatoes, eggplants, potatoes) previously grew, legumes, root vegetables and various types of cabbage.
As you can imagine, this unusual fruit is a rather moody creature, but it's worth it. After all, before you take something, you must give it back. So here, for all the vitamins and the benefits that momordica brings to your body, she needs something in return. In this case, this is a special care and special attention to this fetus.
Care
- Momordika shows love for a large number Sveta. But he doesn't like windy places. Also, during the hot and soaring sun, he prefers to be in the shade. That's why the most successful planting place is greenhouses... All its conditions will be met there.
- Do not forget, the fruit is really very moody, therefore, it loves personal space. Try not to plant plants too close to each other, keep the distance between them. Otherwise, due to lack of space, the fruits will be small and may begin to crumble ahead of time.
- Remember that momordica is primarily a climbing vine. And the vine should be tied up. Therefore, already grown plants will need a garter or provide her with some vertical support... Here your imagination comes into play. The main thing is that the vine does not lie on the ground, but grows up.
- Since the plant grows in hot weather, there is a danger that it may dry out. That's why try as often as possible not only to water the plant, but also to spray it completely(with warm water).
- The plant grows at a very accelerated rate, and like any growing organism, momordica needs additional feeding. Preferably at least once every 2 weeks. How the best option I can offer feeding mullein infusion.
If you have taken everything into account and have not forgotten anything, then the plant will put forth fruits very quickly. The crop is ready to be harvested when the fruit is fully opened and red seeds are visible from the inside. The fruit has a special ability to open, it becomes like a flower, as it opens to five petals, somewhat similar to a lily.
It is also important to note that the leaves of young plants can bite like nettles. Therefore, you should work with gloves.
In the refrigerator, fruits can be no more than 20 days.... Otherwise, the fetus loses all of its beneficial features and becomes unusable.
This is a climbing annual herb that belongs to the family pumpkin... Distributed in many regions of Southeast Asia - India, Indonesia, Indochina, southern China, Japan, Taiwan, New Guinea, the Philippines. In the wild, Momordica is found in Florida.
Momordica is cultivated on the balcony, in the room, in the garden, as a healing and simply beautiful liana. This plant with edible fruits serves as a decoration for the southern windows, outdoor terraces and balconies, gazebos, walls, fences and decorative grilles.
Yellow flowers of Momordica with a pleasant aroma are unisexual, have a five-toothed spliced corolla. The scent of her flowers is similar to that of a gardenia, but not as intense.
The Momordica fruit is an elongated, rounded oval berry of an unusual shape. Outside, it is covered with unusual papillary protrusions. The color of the berries can be bright orange, white or yellow.
Momordica tastes like a ripe pumpkin. True, the papillary surface is slightly bitter, which is why the overall taste has a bitter tint. That is why momordica is also called “ bitter gourd". However, this quality does not in any way interfere with the preparation of real delicious dishes from the fruits.
Inside the fruit, around each seed there is a juicy pericarp, which has a dark ruby hue. Its taste is pleasant, reminiscent of persimmon.
It should be noted that momordica is now widely cultivated in our country. Even for short summer this plant manages to grow, and the method of its cultivation resembles the cultivation of squash and pumpkin, but has some nuances.
How to choose
The pulp of the Momordica fruit is consumed in an unripe state, when it tastes like a cucumber. Therefore, do not be surprised if you see unripe fruits on sale - this is normal.
When the fruits begin to ripen, their flesh will turn orange, soft, but also bitter. When the fruit is fully ripe, the seeds will taste sweet. Then they can be eaten raw, although the fruits after heat treatment melt even softer.
How to store
Momordica can be stored for 2-3 weeks at temperatures no higher than 11-13 ° and high humidity- about 90%.
In cooking
All parts of Momordica - fruits, leaves and seeds - have beneficial properties and can be used. True, the fruits are quite bitter, therefore it is more often used in medicine than for culinary purposes.
Momordica pulp and seeds are widely used in Asian dishes. They are boiled, fried, added to salads, stews and soups. Momordica goes well with potatoes, meat, unsweetened yoghurts, coconut, cucumbers. They love momordika in Japanese Okinawa, which, according to scientists, can also explain long duration life in the region.
Bitter gourd is widely used in dishes of the Amazonian tribes, where its leaves and fruits are added to bean dishes or soups as a spice that gives a pungent smell and sour or bitter taste. To soften the bitter taste, the fruits are pre-boiled in salted water.
Momordica is traditionally used to prepare national dishes in the cuisine of Asian countries. The high content of protein and vitamins, nutritional value determine the variety of dishes with these fruits. Salads, snacks and soups are seasoned with young leaves and plant shoots containing a lot of useful folic acid. The fruit of momordiki is eaten both unripe and ripe - it is equally useful and pleasant, the difference is in astringency and sharpness of taste.
Momordica is also one of the main ingredients of India's national seasoning - curry.
Momordica jam is also tasty and unusual. And by adding alcohol to this sweet mass, you can get an aromatic Home wine, tincture or liquor.
But the berries inside the fruit are especially valuable - they are a real source of trace elements and vitamins. Due to their nutty-tropical flavor, the seeds are used as an additive to a variety of confectionery products - cookies, cakes, buns.
To prepare a medicinal tincture, you need to cut the fruit without seeds into small slices. Fill them tightly three-liter jar... Then pour half a liter of vodka into the jar, close the lid. Incubate in a cool, dark place for two weeks. Tincture of fruits is drunk 3 days on an empty stomach (half an hour before meals), a teaspoon three times a day. The tincture is effective for colds, rheumatism and psoriasis. It is also used as an excellent remedy for strengthening the immune system.
To prepare a decoction of seeds, you need to pour 15-20 crushed seeds with a glass of boiling water and keep them on low heat for about 10 minutes. Then the broth is infused for an hour and filtered. A decoction of seeds is drunk at 50 mg three to four times a day, with hemorrhoids and as a diuretic, with fever.
Seed powder is also considered useful. For this, the seeds are crushed on a coffee grinder. The frequency of reception and indications are similar with the use of a decoction. The powder is prescribed in a dosage of three to five grams per dose.
Asian women have long appreciated the cosmetic properties of Momordica. Folk recipes there are many decoctions, ointments, which are considered very useful due to the presence of an increased dose of oils and vitamin C in the product.
Momordica is widely used in the treatment of diseases skin by applying compresses. A decoction of honey and crushed momordica leaves can heal burns very quickly, minimizing the possibility of scars. The mixture of honey and leaves can even be eaten to accelerate skin regeneration.
Daily use of Momordica leaf tincture will help to improve the condition of the skin, making it look younger and more velvety, as well as smoothing out wrinkles.
Also this folk remedy has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin with the appearance of edema, psoriasis and inflammation. A decoction of the leaves has a beneficial effect on skin rashes and prickly heat.
Dangerous properties of Momordica
You can often hear about allergies when "overeating" fruits. For the sake of fairness, it should be noted that momordica is far from strawberry, and the tastes of Europeans differ from the preferences of eastern residents, so "overeating" is almost excluded. At the same time, intolerance can cause allergic manifestations (itching, sore throat, rash, etc.) - you need to get used to momordica.
If we talk about the treatment with Momordica drugs, then they are not prescribed during pregnancy, since there is information that certain biologically active substances that are part of this plant have abortive properties. In addition, pregnant women are advised not to eat the fruits of Momordika. The introduction of this product into the diet during breastfeeding may cause allergies in the infant.
The pumpkin family counts in its group useful plants such types, without which it cannot do ethnoscience... One of them is the Momordica plant.
The composition and useful properties of Momordika
Momordica is also popularly called Indian cucumber. It contains amino acids, saponins, oils, alkaloids and phenols. The fruits of Momordika are very rich in B vitamins, carotene, vitamin C and calcium.
It should be noted that of the whole Momordica plant, its seeds are no less beneficial, since they contain the highest concentration of carotene (provitamin A). Carotene is very beneficial for our entire body. Once in the liver, it is converted into vitamin A, which helps to restore visual acuity, is responsible for the growth of hair, nails, skin and teeth condition.
Vitamin C regulates redox processes in human body... It maintains the normal state of blood vessels, helping oxygen and useful microelements from them to enter the tissues, ensures blood clotting and eliminates inflammatory processes in the body, increases immunity and restores the nervous system after stressful situations... Of course, all these qualities of vitamin C are reflected in the properties of Momordika.
In the properties of Momordika, all positive traits vitamins of group B, without which it is impossible to imagine the correct functioning nervous system... The Momordica plant is rich in calcium, which is responsible for the formation of the skeleton and teeth.
Pharmacological action of Momordika
Momordica is known as big amount titles. Among them are bitter Chinese gourd, balsamic pear, mad or yellow cucumber as well as Indian pomegranate.
The fruits of the Momordika plant have increased nutritional value because they contain vitamin C and iron. On the inside, they have a watery and crunchy flesh that tastes like a cucumber or bell pepper... Momordica is a storehouse of vitamins, because even in its leaves you can find a lot of phosphorus, protein and carbohydrates.
Often, Momordica treatment is prescribed for people who suffer from an increased concentration of sugar in the body. This is explained by the fact that the analyzed plant contains harantin, which lowers sugar levels, increases the number of beta cells in the pancreas and normalizes insulin production.
Among the main properties of Momordika, one should not forget about soothing, antiemetic, astringent, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory.
Momordica's treatment is widely used in medicine and is fully approved by her. Most often, drugs are made from it that can normalize the functions of the pancreas.
Release form Momordika
Today in pharmacies you can find Momordica in the form of a solution, which contains the extract of the plant itself, which has a slightly salty taste. Momordica treatment is carried out orally, intravenously, subcutaneously and intramuscularly.
Cooking Momordika cannot do without the use of such basic components:
- Plant origin - Ceanothus americanus D6, Podophyllum peltatum D6, Carbovegetabilis D10, Momordica balsamina D6, Mandragora siccatae eradices D8, Lycopodium clavatum D6, Veratrum album D4. 1 ampoule of the drug accounts for 22 μl of each of these elements.
- Animal origin - Lachesis mutus D10 (22 μl in 1 ampoule).
- Mineral origin - Jodum D8, Argentum nitricum D12, Mercurius Hahnemanni solubilis D8 (22 μl each).
The composition of Momordika's solution also includes isotonic sodium chloride solution.
There are many Momordika recipes in folk medicine. Various decoctions and tinctures are made from the fruits and seeds of this plant.
Indications for use of Momordika
Ready-made Momordika recipes are most often used to eliminate the symptoms of acute and chronic pancreatitis, as well as dispancreatism.
Method of administration and dosage
To make Momordica therapy the most effective, it is recommended to treat Momordica for at least 3-5 weeks. Adults should not exceed the maximum allowable dosage, which is 1 ampoule of solution (2.2 ml). It should be used 1 to 3 times within 7 days.
Due to the healing properties of Momordika, medicine does not prohibit giving a solution from its extract to children from the first days of life. Children under 2 years old are prescribed 0.25 ampoules; from 2 to 6 - half an ampoule; from 6 years old - 1 ampoule. The method of using Momordika is determined only by a doctor.
In folk medicine, the following Momordika recipes are most popular:
- Tincture from the fruits of Momordika. The fruits are well chopped with a knife, transferred to glass jar, pour 0.5 liters of vodka. Cover tightly and put in a dark, cool place. Cooking Momordika lasts 14 days. Momordica treatment is carried out orally half an hour before meals 3 times a day. You need to drink 1 tsp each time. The course of treatment is 3 days. A similar tincture helps with colds, coughs, runny nose, psoriasis, high temperature, rheumatism and to improve immunity. Official medicine, unlike the folk, does not fully confirm such properties of Momordika;
- A decoction of Momordika seeds is made as follows: 15-20 g of seeds are poured with 250 ml of boiling water and boiled for at least 10 minutes. Cooking Momordika will be completely completed when the broth is infused for 60 minutes. and will be filtered through cheesecloth. This broth should be drunk 50 ml 3 or 4 times a day for fever, hemorrhoids or to improve urine output.
Momordika's recipes lack those that use the leaves of the plant, since traditional medicine considers them too toxic and harmful to humans.
Side effects
Treatment by Momordika in some cases causes allergic manifestations of the body and excessive salivation. The seeds of the Momordika plant can cause poisoning or anemia (in children).
Contraindications
You should not prescribe this plant to people with diseases of the adrenal glands, stomach (this can lead to heartburn), as well as constipation.