Efficacy of Momordica charantia L. on Blood Glucose, Blood Lipid, and Body Weight: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background: Previous studies reported that Momordica charantia (MC) improves several metabolic parameters, yet outcomes from numerous trials are contradictory. Objectives: This study aimed to assess MC efficacy for improving glycemic status, lipid profile, and body weight. Materials and Methods: The databases included PubMed, Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, CINALH, AMED, ThaiLIS, and Thai Medical Index, from inception to June 2016. References from retrieved articles were also evaluated. For this analysis, we selected randomized placebo versus controlled intervention trials conducted in humans dosed with various forms of MC, excluding studies where patients coadministered other medications. We performed a quality assessment of the retrieved studies using Jadad's scoring and Cochrane's risk of bias assessment. Results: Eight studies (507 participants) met inclusion criteria, which included six randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Meta-analysis revealed a reduction in fasting blood sugar (FBS) (weight mean difference [WMD] -25.03 mg/dL; 95% confidence interval [CI] -41.17,-8.89) and hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), favoring MC (WMD -0.20%; 95% CI -0.36, -0.04). Similar results were observed for LDL-C (WMD -5.86 mg/dL; 95% CI: -10.83, -0.89), total cholesterol (WMD -6.29 mg/dL; 95% CI: -10.64, -1.93), and triglyceride (WMD -16.22 mg/dL; 95% CI: -26.40, -6.04). Moreover, patients administering MC experienced a significant reduction in body weight (WMD v3.45 kg; 95% CI -6.73, -0.16). Conclusions: MC may improve fasting blood glucose levels, lipid profile, or body weight. A large, well-designed RCT and head-to-head comparison using a standardized preparation of MC will provide definitive data on specific participants.