Bitter melon grows mainly in tropical climates such as South America, the Caribbean, some parts of Africa, and Asia. It has been used in both culinary and medicinal traditions in these regions. Bitter melon is rich in Vitamin C, folate, and potassium, making it a great source of nutrients that support overall immunity, heart health, and energy production.

There are also some studies suggesting that it may be beneficial for diabetes treatments, as certain compounds in bitter melon appear to help regulate blood sugar levels. This makes it a popular choice in traditional remedies for those with insulin sensitivity or metabolic concerns.

In Yakuzen (based on Traditional Chinese Medicine), bitter melon is considered a cold-natured food, meaning that it clears excess heat in your body. In TCM, internal heat can lead to symptoms such as irritability, dry mouth, excessive thirst, and skin eruptions like pimples or rashes. Bitter melon helps gently cool the system, making it a great vegetable to enjoy during summer, especially when the body is prone to overheating or heat-related fatigue.

Its bitter flavor is also important in TCM theory. Bitter-tasting foods are thought to help drain heat, dry dampness, and support heart function by promoting downward movement of Qi. This can help reduce internal fire, improve digestion, and calm an overactive mind.

Yakuzen Classifications
Nature – Cold（寒）
Channels – Heart (心), Spleen (脾), Stomach (胃)
Flavor – Bitter (苦)

How do bitter melons help you?

1. Clear liver heat and relieve eye problems
2. Clear excess heat and relieve thirst

Good for the following symptoms

1. Thirst
2. Excessive sweating
3. Prevention of heatstroke
4. Red eyes caused by heat
5. Pimples
6. Mouth ulcers due to excessive heat

Japanese home dishes with bitter melon

1. Goya No Tamago Itame (Bitter melon stir fry with pork and egg)
   Benefits - Clear heat in your body and relieve thirst / Nourish kidneys and yin and increase energy / Moisten organs and relieve constipation

Main ingredients
Bitter melon, egg, pork, tomato, soy sauce, sake, and black pepper.

For more details, send me a message.

Cautions

It's very important to know about your body conditions before choosing foods.
Do not eat too much of particular foods at once.
Do not eat the foods you are allergic to.
There are foods to avoid if you are pregnant / have a disease. Ask your doctor before you start Yakuzen.