Development of an infusion bag with Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.) with its preserved nutraceutical properties

Abstract

Diabetes Mellitus has reached the status of a global epidemic with projected figures of 300 million people worldwide by the year 2030.Current expenditure on the treatment also seems to escalate rapidly and alternative therapies are gaining more recognition to relieve the burden. Hundreds of plant species have been studied for their potential blood glucose lowering properties. One of the better studied botanicals with hypoglycemic activity include Momordica charantia L (Bitter Gourd),Bitter gourd, known as Karawila in Sri Lanka, is available in abundance throughout the year. Hypoglycemic activity of the fruit centers mainly on two compounds, namely polypeptide-p (p-insulin) and charantin. Their activity has been validated by many clinical trials using recommended animal models. The current study focuses on the value addition of Bitter gourd fruits using dehydration techniques viz. hot air drying and drum drying In order to produce an infusion bag for the diabetics. It is intended to retain the hypoglycemic properties in this process. Several samples were prepared using the two drying methodologies and they were tested for the presence of hypoglycemic constituents both quantitatively and qualitatively. UV Spectrophotometry was one such technique used and it revealed 4 out of 13 samples matching the absorption spectrum of standard bovine insulin. Chromatographic finger printing was the other technique used with the polypeptide-p isolated from the fruits. However, the spot on TLC plate was not coinciding with bovine insulin and it may be attributed to the impurity of the isolate. It is also expected to conduct a clinical trial with the available infusion formulas to verify its activity further and recommend a safe dosage by evaluating the LD 50 value.