# Phytochemical, Phytotherapeutical and Pharmacological Study ofMomordica dioica

Authors: Sattya Narayan Talukdar; Mohammad Nazir Hossain
Journal: Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
 (2014)

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## Abstract

Momordica dioica is a perennial, dioecious, cucurbitaceous climbing creeper (commonly known as kakrol, spiny gourd or teasle gourd). It is native to Asia with extensive distribution in India and Bangladesh. It is used not only as preventive and curative agent for various diseases but also as vegetable with a significant nutritional value over thousands of years. This review aims to take an attempt to evaluate the phytochemical, ethnobotanical, phytotherapeutical and pharmacological properties of kakrol according to the view of traditional medicinal plant based treatment including ayurveda along with recent scientific observations. Kakrol is considered as an underutilized vegetable, although having significant presence of certain compounds containing higher nutritional value than many frequently consumed vegetables. Moreover, as a traditional medicinal plant, it is still potential for its phytochemical components that increase the demand of further extensive evaluation to justify its other therapeutical roles. Therefore, this effort will be helpful to researchers who interested to disclose the unjustified phytotherapeutical role of Momordica dioica.


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## Body

## 1. Introduction

Momordica dioica Roxb. is a perennial, dioecious (2n=28) climber included in Cucurbitaceae family (Figure 1). Momordica genus contains about 80 species [1, 2]. According to the latest revision of IndianMomordica, there are six well identified species of which four are dioecious and two are monoecious [3]. Although this genus is originated from Indo-Malayan region, it is now found to grow in India, Bangladesh, Srilanka, Myanmar, China, Japan, South East Asia, Polynesia, Tropical Africa, and South America [4, 5]. Its cultivation up to an altitude of 1500 meters in Assam and Garo hills of Meghalaya is reported [6]. It is commonly known as spine gourd, teasel gourd or small bitter gourd worldwide whereas in Bangladesh it is known as kakrol and in India as kankro, kartoli, kantoli, kantola, kantroli, ban karola, or janglee karela [7–10]. Kakrol is about 5–7 meters in length, a popular summer vegetable of which its fruit, young twigs and leaves are used as vegetable [11–13].Figure 1
Momordica dioica (Photo credit: https://www.flickr.com/, http://www.tropicalfruitandveg.com/).


## 2.  Phytochemical and Nutrient Study

The fruit ofMomordica dioica contains ashes: 9.1%, crude protein: 5.44%, crude lipid: 3.25%, crude fiber: 22.9%, and carbohydrate: 59.31%. Its fruit has high energy value (288.25 kcal/100 g) in dry weight. Its mineral ranges (mg/100 g dry weight,) are: potassium (4.63), sodium (1.62), calcium (7.37), iron (5.04), and zinc (3.83) [14]. In another investigation, its nutritional value of per 100 g edible fruit is reported to contain 84.1% moisture, 7.7 g carbohydrate, 3.1 g protein, 3.1 g fat, 3.0 g fiber and 1.1 g minerals and small quantities of essential vitamins like carotene, thiamin, riboflavin and niacin [15].Ali and Deokule evaluated some of its micronutrient and secondary metabolites as follows: calcium: 0.5 mg/g, sodium: 1.5 mg/g, potassium: 8.3 mg/g, iron: 0.14 mg/g, zinc: 1.34 mg/g, protein: 19.38%, fat: 4.7%, total phenolic compound: 3.7 mg/g, phytic acid: 2.8 mg/g, and ash value: 6.7% [16]. Moreover, its fruit is recommended as nutritionally rich source of protein and good source of lipid, crude fiber, carbohydrate, iron, calcium, phosphorous. Additionally, it is the highest amount of carotene (162 mg/100 g of edible portion) container amongst the cucurbitaceous vegetables [17–19]. The ash content is reported as 3-4% containing a trace of manganese [20].Tirmizi et al. screened it as a potential source of chromium and zinc [21]. Whereas,Momordica dioica (peeled) contained 0.27 mg/kg of chromium and 4.91 mg/kg of zinc,Momordica dioica (unpeeled) contained 0.26 mg/kg of chromium and 11.0 mg/kg of zinc. The protein content of leaves and dry weight of aerial plant parts remained higher in male as compared to female defruited and monoecious plants [22]. The fruit contains higher amount of ascorbic acid and iodine [23, 24]. The presence of secondary metabolites of fruit including alkaloids, steroids, triterpenoids, and saponins was determined [25]. Among them, four compounds were isolated from ethyl acetate extract and five compounds were isolated from methanol extract consisting of alkaloids and flavonoids with NH and C=O functional groups, respectively. The alkaloids present in seed and root were called momordicin andMomordica foetida, respectively [26]. Phytochemical investigations summurized in Table 1 also showed the presence of lectins, β-sitosterol, saponin glycosides, triterpenes of ursolic acid, hederagenin, oleanolic acid, α-spinasterol, stearic acid, gypsogenin, momodicaursenol, and three new compounds named 3β-o-benzoyl-11-oxo-ursolic acid, 3β-o-benzoyl-6-oxo-ursolic acid, and 3-o-β-D-glucuronopyranosyl gypsogenin [27–32].Table 1
Nutrient and phytochemical study ofMomordica dioica as described in this paper.
Plant part
Classification
Compound
Extract or preparation
Reference
Fruit
Crude protein
—
Quantitative analysis showed 5.44%
[14]
Protein
—
Quantitative analysis  showed 3.1/100 g
[15]
—
Quantitative analysis  showed 19.38%
[16]
Crude lipid
—
Quantitative analysis  showed 3.25%
[14]
Fat
—
Quantitative analysis  showed 3.1/100 g
[15]
—
Quantitative analysis  showed 4.7%
[16]
Crude fiber
—
Quantitative analysis  showed 22.9%
[14]
Carbohydrate
—
Quantitative analysis  showed 59.31%
[14]
—
Quantitative analysis  showed 7.7/100 g
[15]
Niacin
—
Not specified
[15]
Thiamin
—
Not specified
[15]
Carotene
—
Not specified
[15]
—
Quantitative analysis showed 162 mg/100 g of edible portion
[18, 19]
Ascorbic acid
—
Not specified
[24]
Potassium
—
Quantitative analysis showed 4.63 mg/100 g dry weight
[14]
—
Quantitative analysis showed 8.3 mg/g
[16]
Sodium
—
Quantitative analysis showed 1.62 mg/100 g dry weight
[14]
—
Quantitative analysis showed 1.5 mg/g
[16]
Calcium
—
Quantitative analysis showed 7.37 mg/100 g dry weight
[14]
—
Quantitative analysis showed 0.5 mg/g
[16]
Iron
—
Quantitative analysis showed 5.04 mg/100 g dry weight
[14]
—
Quantitative analysis showed 0.14 mg/g
[16]
Zinc
—
Quantitative analysis showed 3.83 mg/100 g dry weight
[14]
—
Quantitative analysis showed 1.34 mg/g
[16]
—
Not specified
[21]
—
Quantitative analysis showed 4.91 mg/kg (peeled), 11.0 mg/g (unpeeled)
[22]
Manganese
—
Not specified
[20]
Iodine
—
Not specified
[23]
Chromium
—
Quantitative analysis showed 0.27 mg/kg (peeled), 0.26 mg/kg (unpeeled)
[22]
—
Not specified
[21]
Phytic acid
—
Quantitative analysis showed 2.8 mg/g
[16]
Total phenolic compound
—
Quantitative analysis showed 3.7 mg/g
[16]
Alkaloids
—
Identified in ethyl acetate, methanol  extract
[25]
Flavonoid
—
Identified in methanol, hexane  extract
[25]
Steroids
—
Identified in ethyl acetate, methanol, aqueous  extract
[25]
Saponins
—
Identified in methanol, aqueous  extract
[25]
Triterpenoids
—
Identified in ethyl acetate, methanol, aqueous extract
[25]
Seed
Alkaloid
Momordicin
Identified in seed oil
[26]
Lectin
Anti-H-Lectin
Not specified
[30]
Root
Alkaloid
Momordicafoetida
Not specified
[26]
Stearic acid
—
Identified in methanol extract
[31]
Steroid
α-spinasterol octadecanoate
Identified in methanol extract
[31]
α-spinasterol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside
Identified in methanol extract
[31]
Triterpenoid
Oleanolic acid
Identified in methanol extract
[32]
Gypsogenin
Identified in methanol extract
[32]
Hederagenin
Identified in methanol extract
[32]
3β-O-benzoyl-6-oxo-ursolic acid
Identified in methanol extract
[32]
3β-O-benzoyl-11-oxo-ursolic acid
Identified in methanol extract
[32]
3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl hederagenin
Identified in methanol extract
[31]
3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl gypsogenin
Identified in methanol extract
[31]
3-O-β-D-glucuronopyranosylgypsogenin
Identified in methanol extract
[31]


## 3. Ethnobotanical and Phytotherapeutical Study

According to Ayurveda (Table2), not only its fruits have diuretic, laxative, hepatoprotective, antivenomous, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, antiasthmatic, antipyretic, antileprosy, antidiabetic, and antidepressant properties but also its leaves have antihelminthic, aphrodisiac, antihemorroidal, hepatoprotective, antibronchitic, antipyretic, antiasthmatic, and analgesic properties [33, 34]. Fresh fruit juice and cooked fruit in small amount of oil are prescribed for hypertension and diabetes, respectively. Oral administration of 50 mL of root juice is advised once a day with empty stomach to beat diabetes. The juice of root is a domestic remedy for the inflammation caused by contact with the urine of the house lizard. The juice of the leaves are mixed with coconut, pepper, red sandalwood, and so forth in order to form an ointment and applied to the head to relieve pain. Dried fruit powder applied into the nostrils produces a powerful errhine effect and provokes a copious discharge from the schneiderian mucous membrane [35]. Root juice has stimulant, astringent, antiseptic, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antiulcerant effect. The mucilaginous tubers act as antihelminthic, spermicidal, and antifertility abortifacient agent [36]. The root of the male plant is used in snake bites and scorpion sting [37]. The superficial use of root paste over the whole body is believed to act as a sedative in high fever with delirium [38, 39]. Beside the superficial and oral administration of leaf paste for skin disease, tender fruits are rubbed on skin for pimples and acne and roasted seeds are used for eczema and other skin problems [40]. Root powder is also applied for softening skin and reducing perspiration. The protective role of the leaves against chronic skin diseases is also reported. A preparation called “Panchatikta ghrita” is made by boiling 800 g each of neem bark, leaves ofMomordica dioica,Solanum surattense,Tinospora cordifolia, and bark ofAdhatoda vasica, in 5-6 liters of water up to its reduction to quarter and then adding of 3.5 liters of butter and about 3 kg myrobalans and is recommended as one tablespoonful with little hot milk internally twice daily in chronic skin diseases [41]. Mucilaginous tuber of female plant and toasted root are used in bleeding piles and bowel infections. The traditional use ofMomrdica dioica against bleeding piles (hemorrhoids) is also reported [42, 43].Table 2
Ethnobotanical use ofMomordica dioica as described in this paper.
Plant’s part
Ethnobotanical use
Preparation or Mode of use
Reference
Fruit
Hypertension
Fresh fruit juice
[35]
Diabetes
Cooked fruit in small amount of oil
[35]
Pimple and acne protectant
Tender fruits are rubbed on skin for pimples and acne
[40]
Diuretic
Not specified
[33, 34]
Laxative
Not specified
[33, 34]
Hepatoprotective agent
Not specified
[33, 34]
Antihypertensive
Not specified
[33, 34]
Anti-inflammatory agent
Not specified
[33, 34]
Antipyretic
Not specified
[33, 34]
Antivenomous agent
Not specified
[33, 34]
Antiasthmatic agent
Not specified
[33, 34]
Antidepressant
Not specified
[33, 34]
Antileprosy agent
Not specified
[33, 34]
Root
Diabetes
Oral administration of 50 mL of root juice is advised once a day with empty stomach.
[35, 36]
Anti-inflammatory agent
The juice of the root is a domestic remedy for the inflammation caused by contact with the urine of the house lizard.
[35, 36]
Stimulant
Root juice
[36]
Antiseptic
Root juice
[36]
Antiulcerant
Root juice
[36]
Antitoxic agent
The root of the male plant uses in snake bites and scorpion sting
[37]
Antipyretic
The root paste smearing over the whole body act as a sedative fever with delirium
[38, 39]
Skin softening agent
Root powder is applied for softening skin
[41]
Antiperspirant
Root powder is applied for reducing perspiration.
[41]
Antihemorroidal agent
Toasted roots are used in bleeding piles
[42, 43]
Bowel infection reducer
Toasted roots are used in bowel infections
[42]
Mucilaginous tuber
Antihelminthic agent
Not specified
[36]
Spermicidal agent
Not specified
[36]
Antifertility agent
Not specified
[36]
Antihemorroidal agent
Mucilaginous tuber of female plant are used in bleeding piles
[42, 43]
Bowel infection reducer
Mucilaginous tuber of female plant are used in bowel infections
[42]
Seed
Eczema protectant
Roasted seeds are used for eczema and other skin problems
[40]
Leaf
Analgesic
Leaf juice is mixed with coconut, pepper, red sandalwood, and so forth in order to form an ointment to relieve pain.
[35]
Antihelminthic
Not specified
[33, 34]
Antihemorroidal
Not specified
[33, 34]
Antibronchitic
Not specified
[33, 34]
Skin disease reducer
A preparation called “Panchatikta ghrita” is made by boiling 800 g each of neem bark, leaves ofMomordica dioica, Solanum surattense, Tinospora cordifolia, and bark of Adhatoda vasica, in 5-6 liters of water up to its reduction to quarter and then the addition of 3.5 liters of butter and 3 kg myrobalans, is recommended as one tablespoonful with little hot milk internally twice daily in chronic skin diseases
[40, 41]


## 4. Pharmacological Study

### 4.1. Antioxidant Activity

Compounds derived from natural sources are capable of providing protection against free radicals [44]. The alcoholic extract inhibited the formation of oxygen derived free radicals (ODFR)in vitro with 4000 μg/mL ascorbic system [45]. In another work, the free radical scavenging potential of the tuberous roots was studied by differentin vitro methods, namely, DPPH radical scavenging, ABTS radical scavenging, iron chelating activity, total antioxidant capacity, and haemoglobin glycosylation assay. Total antioxidant capacity of ethanolic extract was found to be 26 μg/mL which is equivalent to ascorbic acid. Moreover, its ethanol extract showed percentage inhibition of haemoglobin glycosylation as 66.63 and 74.14 at conc. of 500 and 1000 μg/mL, respectively, while that of standard DL α-tocopherol was 61.53% and 86.68% inhibition at same concentration [46]. The antioxidant activities of methanol and aqueous extract of fruits were analyzed and the presence of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, sterol, alkaloids, amino acids, and so forth, were found [47]. Among those compounds, due to the presence of flavonoids, its fruit was reported as a potent antioxidant [48].


### 4.2. Analgesic Activity

Ilango et al. and Vaidya and Shreedhara reported that both hexane extract and soluble portion of methanolic extract ofMomordica dioica fruit pulp exhibited analgesic activity when compared to standard drug [49, 50]. Petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and methanol extracts exhibited significant analgesic activity in acetic acid induced writhing syndrome when compared to the vehicle treated control group. But among them petroleum ether and methanol extract gave more significant analgesic activity than ethyl acetate extract [51].


### 4.3. Nephroprotective Activity

The ethanol extract of seeds was screened and marked nephroprotective as well as curative activities was found without any toxicity caused by nephrotoxin-like gentamicin [52]. The nephroprotective and curative activities of its fruit extract ware also observed [53]. Gupta et al. evaluated the renal protective effect ofMomordica dioica extract in streptozotocin-diabetic rats [54].


### 4.4. Neuroprotective Activity

The effect of methanol and aqueous extract of fruit pulp was observed on the central nervous system by using neuropharmacological experimental models in mice. These extracts were used for a dose-dependent reduction of the onset and duration of a reduction in locomotor activity. It was suggested that methanol and aqueous extract of fruit pulp (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg) had neuroprotective activities [55].


### 4.5. Antiallergic Activities

The antiallergic activity of its extract in mice was observed [56]. The alcoholic extract was evaluated and its efficacy to inhibit passive cutaneous anaphylaxis was found in mouse and rat [57].


### 4.6. Antiulcer Activity

Vijayakumar screenedMomordica dioica extract mediated antiulcerogenic effect on ethanol-induced ulcer model of rat. A significant decrease occurred in the level of H+-K+ATPase, volume of gastric juice, and acid output. Gastric wall mucus, pH, and catalase enzyme were increased significantly but antioxidant enzyme levels of superoxide dismutase were decreased [58]. Its gastroprotective and ulcer healing activities were also observed by Vijayakumar et al. [59].


### 4.7. Anticancer Activity

Luo et al. showed that the CHCl3 extract of roots and five isolated constituents had anticancer activity during pharmacological testing on cancer cell (L1210). The growth inhibitory index (%) of α-spinasterol-3-o-β-D-glucopyranoside was shown to be 50%, at the dose of 4 μg/mL [31].


### 4.8. Antimicrobial Activity

Shrinivas et al. studied methanolic extract and aqueous extract of fruit and found that methanolic extract had more promising antimicrobial activity [47]. Arekar et al. screened antibacterial activities of ethyl acetate extract. The concentration of 200 μg/disc was more active againstE. coli compared toS. aureus, S. paratyphi, andP. mirabilis bacteria. Ethyl Acetate extract ofin vitro shoot culture (yield: 0.26%) showed maximum inhibition zone againstS. paratyphi andP. mirabilis while ethyl acetate extract ofin vitro callus culture (yield: 21.5%) showed maximum inhibition zone againstS. aureus [60]. On the other hand, Singh et al. found its no promising antimycobacterial activity [61].


### 4.9. Antidiabetic Activity

Antidiabetic specifically oral hypoglycemic effects ofMomordica dioica in rat model was screened by Fernandopulle et al. [62]. Reddy et al. and Singh et al. showed aqueous, chloroform, ethyl acetate and ethanolic extract of fruit mediated antidiabetic activity in alloxan induced experimental rats [63, 64]. Moreover, Sharma and Arya reported ethyl acetate and ethanol extract containing steroids, triterpenoids had potential role in alloxan-induced diabetic rats and broadly type 2 diabetes [65]. Gupta et al. investigated the antidiabetic and renal protective effect ofMomordica dioica methanolic extract (MDMtE) in streptozotocin-treated diabetic rats. MDMtE treatment markedly reduced serum glucose and increased serum insulin and urea levels. Furthermore, histologic observation of kidney of diabetic rats showed degenerative changes in glomerulus and renal tubules [54].


### 4.10. Antimalarial Activity

Misra et al. screened alcoholic extractin vivo andin vitro for antimalarial effect against NK65 strain ofPlasmodium berghei,Jurinea macrocephala, andAegle marmelos and found them to possess schizontocidal activity [66].


### 4.11. Anti-Inflammatory Activity

The anti-inflammatory effect of the alcoholic extract of roots was evaluated during CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity [45]. Ilango et al. evaluated both hexane extract and methanolic extract of fruit pulp mediated anti-inflammatory activities [49].


### 4.12. Hepatoprotective and Antihepatotoxic Activity

CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity prevention of methanol extract ofMomordica dioica was observed by Chaudhary et al. [67]. Although Govind reported the hepatoprotective and antihepatotoxicity effect of leaf, Kumar et al. specifically mentioned the role of aqueous and methanol extract of leaves against it [68, 69]. Jain et al. examined leaf as a potent hepatoprotective agent against CCl4 induced hepatic damage in rats byin vivo antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities. They were positive for both ethanolic and aqueous extracts although ethanolic extract was found more potent hepatoprotective [48]. Kushwaha et al. evaluated the flavonoidal fraction from ethanolic extract of fruit mediated hepatoprotective activity in wistar strain of albino rats of either sex against CCl4 induced hepatic damage [70]. Rakh et al. reported that the alcoholic extract of roots significantly reduced CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity in rats by inhibiting the formation of radicalsin vitro [56]. The saponin fraction ofMomordica dioica (27.5 and 55 mg/kg) administered to the CCl4 treated rats to protect the liver cells from liver damages on hepatocytes and silymarin (100 mg/kg), a well-known natural antihepatotoxic drug was used as standard [71]. The hexane extract and ethyl acetate soluble fraction of the methanolic extract of the fruit pulp at a dose of 400 mg/kg administered for 7 days in rat exhibited a significant therapeutic effect [72]. Sato et al. observed significant lowering of liver cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels in rats. Fecal lipid excretion was increased and lymphatic transport of triacylglycerol and phospholipids were decreased in rats which were fed the kakrol after permanent lymph cannulation. Moreover, n-butanol extract caused a significant reduction in the pancreatic lipase activityin vitro and liver lipids by inhibiting lipid absorption [73].


### 4.13. Antifertility Activity

Shreedhar et al. reported the antifertility activity of ethanolic and aqueous extract ofMomordica dioica root. The extracts showed moderate estrogenic activity and caused significant increase in uterine weight. Moreover, at a dose of 200 mg/kg, aqueous extract showed 83% and ethanolic extract showed 100% abortifacient activity [74]. Kudaravalli evaluated the ethanolic extract of fruit mediated antifertility activities of female rats but found no male antifertility activity at the dose of 250 mg/kg [75].


### 4.14. Antiedemic Activity

Shreedhara and Vaidya administered the alcoholic extract orally which significantly reduced carrageenan-induced paw edema. The activity was compared with ibuprofen (200 mg/kg) [45].


### 4.15. Antifeedant, Insecticidal, Grain Protectant, and Allelopathic Activity

Mishra et al. reported the role ofMomordica dioica seed oil as insecticide and found satisfactory level of natural insecticidal activity up to 100% mortality at 4% conc. in 24 hours. Moreover, its lower conc. up to 2% was found to be effective but for 100% mortality longer time was required. They suggested the presence of alkaloid momordicin in oil was responsible for it [76]. In another work, Mishra et al. evaluated its seed oil’s potential as grain protectant againstCallosobruchus chinensis upon the stored legume-pulse grain. It was applied as a dose of 6–8 mL/kg to legume pulse grain sample for 60 days. As a result, appeared degree of dehusking was increased (%) from 40.00 to 72.59, 59.88 to 92.44, 63.39 to 87.50 and 57.00 to 79.43 for Pigeon pea (Canjanas cajan), Chickpea (Cicer arietinum), Urdbean (Phaseolus mungo), Mungbean (Phaseolus radiatus), respectively [77]. Narasimhan et al. and Meriga et al. reported that the hexane extract and ethyl acetate extract of the fruit pulp had moderate and concentration dependent antifeedant activity againstSpodoptera litura [78, 79]. Allelopathy refers to the chemical inhibition of one species by another by releasing chemicals into the environment where it affects the development and growth of neighboring plants. Ahire and Deokule observed the leaf extract ofM. dioica mediated allelopathic activity on seedling growth as well as seed germination ofP. aconitifolius and found major toxicity at a dose of 2.0% and 2.5% w/v of phytoextracts [80]. These above information are summarized in Table 3.Table 3
Pharmacological evaluation ofMomordica dioicadescribed in the paper.
Pharmacological activity
Part of plant
Extract/preparation
Detail effect
Reference
Antioxidant activity
Root
Alcoholic extract
Inhibited the formation of oxygen derived free radicals (ODFR)in vitro with 4000 μg/mL ascorbic system.
[45]
Root
Ethanol extract
DPPH radical scavenging, ABTS radical scavenging, iron chelating activity, total antioxidant capacity and haemoglobin glycosylation assay were studied. Total antioxidant capacity was 26µg/mL equivalents to ascorbic acid.
[46]
Fruit
Methanol, aqueous extract
Found the presence of phenolic compound, flavonoids, sterol, alkaloids and amino acids.
[47]
Leaf
Ethanol, aqueous extracts
The presence of flavonoids was reported as a potent antioxidant
[48]
Analgesic activity
Fruit
Hexane, methanol extract
Exhibited analgesic activity when compared to standard drug
[49]
Fruit
Petroleum ether, methanol, ethyl acetate extract
Petroleum ether and methanol extract gave more significant analgesic activity than ethyl acetate extract.
[51]
Nephroprotective activity
Seed
Ethanol extract
Found marked nephroprotective and curative activities without any toxicity caused by nephrotoxin-like gentamicin.
[52]
Fruit
Ethanol extract
Observed significant reduction in GSH and an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) production.
[53]
Neuroprotective activity
Fruit
Methanol and aqueous extract
Methanol and aqueous extract of fruit pulp (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg) had neuroprotective activities.
[55]
Antiallergic activities
Seed
Alcoholic extract
The antiallergic activity of extract in mice was observed.
[56]
Not specified
Alcoholic extract
Found its efficacy to inhibit passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in mouse and rat.
[57]
Antiulcer activity
Fruit
Ethanol extract
Decreased the level of H+-K+ATPase, volume of gastric juice, and acid output. Gastric wall mucus, pH and catalase enzyme were increased significantly. Antioxidant enzyme levels of superoxide dismutase were decreased.
[58]
Fruit
Hydro alcohol extract
Gastroprotective and ulcer healing activities were observed.
[59]
Anticancer activity
Root
Methanol extract
The growth inhibitory index (%) ofα-spinasterol-3-o-β-D-glucopyranoside was shown to be 50%, at the dose of 4 µg/mL while testing on cancer cell (L1210).
[31]
Antimicrobial activity
Fruit
Methanol, aqueous extract
Found methanolic extract had more promising antimicrobial activity.
[47]
Root, Leaf
Ethyl  acetate extract
The concentration of 200μg/disc was more active against E. coli compared to,  S. paratyphi, and P. mirabilisbacteria.
[60]
Antidiabetic activity
Fruit
Aqueous extract
Oral hypoglycemic effect ofMomordica dioica in rat model was screened.
[62]
Fruit
Chloroform, ethyl acetate, and alcohol extract
Ethyl acetate and ethanol showed significant antidiabetic activity at a dose of 200 mg/kg.
[63]
Fruit
Aqueous, hexane, chloroform, and ethanol extract
Aqueous extract showed maximum fall (52.8%) in 0 to 1 h fasting blood glucose in glucose tolerance test compared to hexane (39%), chloroform (37.2%), and ethanol (37.7%) extract in normal healthy rats.
[64]
Not specified
Ethyl acetate and ethanol extract
Screened potential role in alloxan-induced diabetic rats and broadly type 2 diabetes.
[65]
Fruit
Methanol extract
Markedly reduced serum glucose and increased serum insulin and urea levels.
[54]
Antimalarial activity
Not specified
Alcoholic extract
Misra screened extractin vivo and in vitro against NK65 strain of Plasmodium berghei, Jurinea macrocephala, Aegle marmelos and found to possess schizontocidal activity.
[66]
Anti-inflammatory activity
Root
Alcoholic extract
Significantly reduced carrageenan-induced paw edema when administered orally (200 mg/kg) and the activity was comparable with ibuprofen (200 mg/kg, p.o.)
[45]
Fruit
Hexane, methanol extract.
Both extracts exhibited anti-inflammatory activities when compared to standard drug
[49]
Hepatoprotective and antihepatotoxic activity
Root
Ethanol extract
Prevented CCl4induced hepatotoxicity at a dose of 200 mg/kg
[67]
Leaf
Aqueous, methanol extract
Reported hepatoprotective and antihepatotoxicity effect of leaf.
[68, 69]
Fruit
Ethanol extract
Evaluated hepatoprotective activity in wistar strain of albino rats of either sex against CCl4 induced hepatic damage.
[70]
Leaf
Ethanol, aqueous extracts
Ethanol extract was found more potent hepatoprotective against CCl4induced hepatic damage in rats by in vivo free radical scavenging activities.
[48]
Root
Alcohol extract
Reduced CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity in rats by inhibiting the formation of radicals in vitro with ascorbic system.
[56]
Fruit
Methanol extract
The saponin fraction ofMomordica dioica (27.5 and 55 mg/kg) administered to the CCl4 treated rats to protect the liver cells from liver damages on hepatocytes and silymarin (100 mg/kg).
[71]
Fruit
Methanol extract
Exhibited a significant therapeutic effect at a dose of 400 mg/kg administered for 7 days in rat.
[72]
Fruit
n-butanol extract
Observed significant lowering of liver cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels in rats. Moreover, n-butanol extract caused a significant reduction in the pancreatic lipase activityin vitro.
[73]
Antifertility activity
Root
Ethanol, aqueous extract
Found moderate estrogenic activity including significant increase in uterine weight and abortifacient activity.
[74]
Fruit
Ethanolic extract
Found antifertility activities of female rats but no male antifertility activity at the dose of 250 mg/kg
[75]
Antiedemic activity
Root
Alcoholic extract
Showed significant reduction of carrageenan-induced paw edema.
[45]
Insecticidal activity
Seed
Seed oil
Alkaloid momordicin in seed oil was responsible for 100% mortality at 4% conc. in 24 hours.
[76]
Grain protectant activity
Seed
Seed oil
Seed oil was grain protectant againstCallosobruchus chinensis
[77]
Antifeedant activity
Fruit
Hexane and ethyl acetate extract
Showed antifeedant activity againstSpodoptera litura
[78, 79]
Allelopathic activity
Leaf
Aqueous extract
Leaf extract has allelopathic activity on seedling growth and seed germination ofP. aconitifolius
[80]


## 4.1. Antioxidant Activity

Compounds derived from natural sources are capable of providing protection against free radicals [44]. The alcoholic extract inhibited the formation of oxygen derived free radicals (ODFR)in vitro with 4000 μg/mL ascorbic system [45]. In another work, the free radical scavenging potential of the tuberous roots was studied by differentin vitro methods, namely, DPPH radical scavenging, ABTS radical scavenging, iron chelating activity, total antioxidant capacity, and haemoglobin glycosylation assay. Total antioxidant capacity of ethanolic extract was found to be 26 μg/mL which is equivalent to ascorbic acid. Moreover, its ethanol extract showed percentage inhibition of haemoglobin glycosylation as 66.63 and 74.14 at conc. of 500 and 1000 μg/mL, respectively, while that of standard DL α-tocopherol was 61.53% and 86.68% inhibition at same concentration [46]. The antioxidant activities of methanol and aqueous extract of fruits were analyzed and the presence of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, sterol, alkaloids, amino acids, and so forth, were found [47]. Among those compounds, due to the presence of flavonoids, its fruit was reported as a potent antioxidant [48].


## 4.2. Analgesic Activity

Ilango et al. and Vaidya and Shreedhara reported that both hexane extract and soluble portion of methanolic extract ofMomordica dioica fruit pulp exhibited analgesic activity when compared to standard drug [49, 50]. Petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and methanol extracts exhibited significant analgesic activity in acetic acid induced writhing syndrome when compared to the vehicle treated control group. But among them petroleum ether and methanol extract gave more significant analgesic activity than ethyl acetate extract [51].


## 4.3. Nephroprotective Activity

The ethanol extract of seeds was screened and marked nephroprotective as well as curative activities was found without any toxicity caused by nephrotoxin-like gentamicin [52]. The nephroprotective and curative activities of its fruit extract ware also observed [53]. Gupta et al. evaluated the renal protective effect ofMomordica dioica extract in streptozotocin-diabetic rats [54].


## 4.4. Neuroprotective Activity

The effect of methanol and aqueous extract of fruit pulp was observed on the central nervous system by using neuropharmacological experimental models in mice. These extracts were used for a dose-dependent reduction of the onset and duration of a reduction in locomotor activity. It was suggested that methanol and aqueous extract of fruit pulp (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg) had neuroprotective activities [55].


## 4.5. Antiallergic Activities

The antiallergic activity of its extract in mice was observed [56]. The alcoholic extract was evaluated and its efficacy to inhibit passive cutaneous anaphylaxis was found in mouse and rat [57].


## 4.6. Antiulcer Activity

Vijayakumar screenedMomordica dioica extract mediated antiulcerogenic effect on ethanol-induced ulcer model of rat. A significant decrease occurred in the level of H+-K+ATPase, volume of gastric juice, and acid output. Gastric wall mucus, pH, and catalase enzyme were increased significantly but antioxidant enzyme levels of superoxide dismutase were decreased [58]. Its gastroprotective and ulcer healing activities were also observed by Vijayakumar et al. [59].


## 4.7. Anticancer Activity

Luo et al. showed that the CHCl3 extract of roots and five isolated constituents had anticancer activity during pharmacological testing on cancer cell (L1210). The growth inhibitory index (%) of α-spinasterol-3-o-β-D-glucopyranoside was shown to be 50%, at the dose of 4 μg/mL [31].


## 4.8. Antimicrobial Activity

Shrinivas et al. studied methanolic extract and aqueous extract of fruit and found that methanolic extract had more promising antimicrobial activity [47]. Arekar et al. screened antibacterial activities of ethyl acetate extract. The concentration of 200 μg/disc was more active againstE. coli compared toS. aureus, S. paratyphi, andP. mirabilis bacteria. Ethyl Acetate extract ofin vitro shoot culture (yield: 0.26%) showed maximum inhibition zone againstS. paratyphi andP. mirabilis while ethyl acetate extract ofin vitro callus culture (yield: 21.5%) showed maximum inhibition zone againstS. aureus [60]. On the other hand, Singh et al. found its no promising antimycobacterial activity [61].


## 4.9. Antidiabetic Activity

Antidiabetic specifically oral hypoglycemic effects ofMomordica dioica in rat model was screened by Fernandopulle et al. [62]. Reddy et al. and Singh et al. showed aqueous, chloroform, ethyl acetate and ethanolic extract of fruit mediated antidiabetic activity in alloxan induced experimental rats [63, 64]. Moreover, Sharma and Arya reported ethyl acetate and ethanol extract containing steroids, triterpenoids had potential role in alloxan-induced diabetic rats and broadly type 2 diabetes [65]. Gupta et al. investigated the antidiabetic and renal protective effect ofMomordica dioica methanolic extract (MDMtE) in streptozotocin-treated diabetic rats. MDMtE treatment markedly reduced serum glucose and increased serum insulin and urea levels. Furthermore, histologic observation of kidney of diabetic rats showed degenerative changes in glomerulus and renal tubules [54].


## 4.10. Antimalarial Activity

Misra et al. screened alcoholic extractin vivo andin vitro for antimalarial effect against NK65 strain ofPlasmodium berghei,Jurinea macrocephala, andAegle marmelos and found them to possess schizontocidal activity [66].


## 4.11. Anti-Inflammatory Activity

The anti-inflammatory effect of the alcoholic extract of roots was evaluated during CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity [45]. Ilango et al. evaluated both hexane extract and methanolic extract of fruit pulp mediated anti-inflammatory activities [49].


## 4.12. Hepatoprotective and Antihepatotoxic Activity

CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity prevention of methanol extract ofMomordica dioica was observed by Chaudhary et al. [67]. Although Govind reported the hepatoprotective and antihepatotoxicity effect of leaf, Kumar et al. specifically mentioned the role of aqueous and methanol extract of leaves against it [68, 69]. Jain et al. examined leaf as a potent hepatoprotective agent against CCl4 induced hepatic damage in rats byin vivo antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities. They were positive for both ethanolic and aqueous extracts although ethanolic extract was found more potent hepatoprotective [48]. Kushwaha et al. evaluated the flavonoidal fraction from ethanolic extract of fruit mediated hepatoprotective activity in wistar strain of albino rats of either sex against CCl4 induced hepatic damage [70]. Rakh et al. reported that the alcoholic extract of roots significantly reduced CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity in rats by inhibiting the formation of radicalsin vitro [56]. The saponin fraction ofMomordica dioica (27.5 and 55 mg/kg) administered to the CCl4 treated rats to protect the liver cells from liver damages on hepatocytes and silymarin (100 mg/kg), a well-known natural antihepatotoxic drug was used as standard [71]. The hexane extract and ethyl acetate soluble fraction of the methanolic extract of the fruit pulp at a dose of 400 mg/kg administered for 7 days in rat exhibited a significant therapeutic effect [72]. Sato et al. observed significant lowering of liver cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels in rats. Fecal lipid excretion was increased and lymphatic transport of triacylglycerol and phospholipids were decreased in rats which were fed the kakrol after permanent lymph cannulation. Moreover, n-butanol extract caused a significant reduction in the pancreatic lipase activityin vitro and liver lipids by inhibiting lipid absorption [73].


## 4.13. Antifertility Activity

Shreedhar et al. reported the antifertility activity of ethanolic and aqueous extract ofMomordica dioica root. The extracts showed moderate estrogenic activity and caused significant increase in uterine weight. Moreover, at a dose of 200 mg/kg, aqueous extract showed 83% and ethanolic extract showed 100% abortifacient activity [74]. Kudaravalli evaluated the ethanolic extract of fruit mediated antifertility activities of female rats but found no male antifertility activity at the dose of 250 mg/kg [75].


## 4.14. Antiedemic Activity

Shreedhara and Vaidya administered the alcoholic extract orally which significantly reduced carrageenan-induced paw edema. The activity was compared with ibuprofen (200 mg/kg) [45].


## 4.15. Antifeedant, Insecticidal, Grain Protectant, and Allelopathic Activity

Mishra et al. reported the role ofMomordica dioica seed oil as insecticide and found satisfactory level of natural insecticidal activity up to 100% mortality at 4% conc. in 24 hours. Moreover, its lower conc. up to 2% was found to be effective but for 100% mortality longer time was required. They suggested the presence of alkaloid momordicin in oil was responsible for it [76]. In another work, Mishra et al. evaluated its seed oil’s potential as grain protectant againstCallosobruchus chinensis upon the stored legume-pulse grain. It was applied as a dose of 6–8 mL/kg to legume pulse grain sample for 60 days. As a result, appeared degree of dehusking was increased (%) from 40.00 to 72.59, 59.88 to 92.44, 63.39 to 87.50 and 57.00 to 79.43 for Pigeon pea (Canjanas cajan), Chickpea (Cicer arietinum), Urdbean (Phaseolus mungo), Mungbean (Phaseolus radiatus), respectively [77]. Narasimhan et al. and Meriga et al. reported that the hexane extract and ethyl acetate extract of the fruit pulp had moderate and concentration dependent antifeedant activity againstSpodoptera litura [78, 79]. Allelopathy refers to the chemical inhibition of one species by another by releasing chemicals into the environment where it affects the development and growth of neighboring plants. Ahire and Deokule observed the leaf extract ofM. dioica mediated allelopathic activity on seedling growth as well as seed germination ofP. aconitifolius and found major toxicity at a dose of 2.0% and 2.5% w/v of phytoextracts [80]. These above information are summarized in Table 3.Table 3
Pharmacological evaluation ofMomordica dioicadescribed in the paper.
Pharmacological activity
Part of plant
Extract/preparation
Detail effect
Reference
Antioxidant activity
Root
Alcoholic extract
Inhibited the formation of oxygen derived free radicals (ODFR)in vitro with 4000 μg/mL ascorbic system.
[45]
Root
Ethanol extract
DPPH radical scavenging, ABTS radical scavenging, iron chelating activity, total antioxidant capacity and haemoglobin glycosylation assay were studied. Total antioxidant capacity was 26µg/mL equivalents to ascorbic acid.
[46]
Fruit
Methanol, aqueous extract
Found the presence of phenolic compound, flavonoids, sterol, alkaloids and amino acids.
[47]
Leaf
Ethanol, aqueous extracts
The presence of flavonoids was reported as a potent antioxidant
[48]
Analgesic activity
Fruit
Hexane, methanol extract
Exhibited analgesic activity when compared to standard drug
[49]
Fruit
Petroleum ether, methanol, ethyl acetate extract
Petroleum ether and methanol extract gave more significant analgesic activity than ethyl acetate extract.
[51]
Nephroprotective activity
Seed
Ethanol extract
Found marked nephroprotective and curative activities without any toxicity caused by nephrotoxin-like gentamicin.
[52]
Fruit
Ethanol extract
Observed significant reduction in GSH and an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) production.
[53]
Neuroprotective activity
Fruit
Methanol and aqueous extract
Methanol and aqueous extract of fruit pulp (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg) had neuroprotective activities.
[55]
Antiallergic activities
Seed
Alcoholic extract
The antiallergic activity of extract in mice was observed.
[56]
Not specified
Alcoholic extract
Found its efficacy to inhibit passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in mouse and rat.
[57]
Antiulcer activity
Fruit
Ethanol extract
Decreased the level of H+-K+ATPase, volume of gastric juice, and acid output. Gastric wall mucus, pH and catalase enzyme were increased significantly. Antioxidant enzyme levels of superoxide dismutase were decreased.
[58]
Fruit
Hydro alcohol extract
Gastroprotective and ulcer healing activities were observed.
[59]
Anticancer activity
Root
Methanol extract
The growth inhibitory index (%) ofα-spinasterol-3-o-β-D-glucopyranoside was shown to be 50%, at the dose of 4 µg/mL while testing on cancer cell (L1210).
[31]
Antimicrobial activity
Fruit
Methanol, aqueous extract
Found methanolic extract had more promising antimicrobial activity.
[47]
Root, Leaf
Ethyl  acetate extract
The concentration of 200μg/disc was more active against E. coli compared to,  S. paratyphi, and P. mirabilisbacteria.
[60]
Antidiabetic activity
Fruit
Aqueous extract
Oral hypoglycemic effect ofMomordica dioica in rat model was screened.
[62]
Fruit
Chloroform, ethyl acetate, and alcohol extract
Ethyl acetate and ethanol showed significant antidiabetic activity at a dose of 200 mg/kg.
[63]
Fruit
Aqueous, hexane, chloroform, and ethanol extract
Aqueous extract showed maximum fall (52.8%) in 0 to 1 h fasting blood glucose in glucose tolerance test compared to hexane (39%), chloroform (37.2%), and ethanol (37.7%) extract in normal healthy rats.
[64]
Not specified
Ethyl acetate and ethanol extract
Screened potential role in alloxan-induced diabetic rats and broadly type 2 diabetes.
[65]
Fruit
Methanol extract
Markedly reduced serum glucose and increased serum insulin and urea levels.
[54]
Antimalarial activity
Not specified
Alcoholic extract
Misra screened extractin vivo and in vitro against NK65 strain of Plasmodium berghei, Jurinea macrocephala, Aegle marmelos and found to possess schizontocidal activity.
[66]
Anti-inflammatory activity
Root
Alcoholic extract
Significantly reduced carrageenan-induced paw edema when administered orally (200 mg/kg) and the activity was comparable with ibuprofen (200 mg/kg, p.o.)
[45]
Fruit
Hexane, methanol extract.
Both extracts exhibited anti-inflammatory activities when compared to standard drug
[49]
Hepatoprotective and antihepatotoxic activity
Root
Ethanol extract
Prevented CCl4induced hepatotoxicity at a dose of 200 mg/kg
[67]
Leaf
Aqueous, methanol extract
Reported hepatoprotective and antihepatotoxicity effect of leaf.
[68, 69]
Fruit
Ethanol extract
Evaluated hepatoprotective activity in wistar strain of albino rats of either sex against CCl4 induced hepatic damage.
[70]
Leaf
Ethanol, aqueous extracts
Ethanol extract was found more potent hepatoprotective against CCl4induced hepatic damage in rats by in vivo free radical scavenging activities.
[48]
Root
Alcohol extract
Reduced CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity in rats by inhibiting the formation of radicals in vitro with ascorbic system.
[56]
Fruit
Methanol extract
The saponin fraction ofMomordica dioica (27.5 and 55 mg/kg) administered to the CCl4 treated rats to protect the liver cells from liver damages on hepatocytes and silymarin (100 mg/kg).
[71]
Fruit
Methanol extract
Exhibited a significant therapeutic effect at a dose of 400 mg/kg administered for 7 days in rat.
[72]
Fruit
n-butanol extract
Observed significant lowering of liver cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels in rats. Moreover, n-butanol extract caused a significant reduction in the pancreatic lipase activityin vitro.
[73]
Antifertility activity
Root
Ethanol, aqueous extract
Found moderate estrogenic activity including significant increase in uterine weight and abortifacient activity.
[74]
Fruit
Ethanolic extract
Found antifertility activities of female rats but no male antifertility activity at the dose of 250 mg/kg
[75]
Antiedemic activity
Root
Alcoholic extract
Showed significant reduction of carrageenan-induced paw edema.
[45]
Insecticidal activity
Seed
Seed oil
Alkaloid momordicin in seed oil was responsible for 100% mortality at 4% conc. in 24 hours.
[76]
Grain protectant activity
Seed
Seed oil
Seed oil was grain protectant againstCallosobruchus chinensis
[77]
Antifeedant activity
Fruit
Hexane and ethyl acetate extract
Showed antifeedant activity againstSpodoptera litura
[78, 79]
Allelopathic activity
Leaf
Aqueous extract
Leaf extract has allelopathic activity on seedling growth and seed germination ofP. aconitifolius
[80]


## 5. Conclusion

The traditional use of medicinal plants has a long history. Ancient people as well as our ancestors were mainly dependent on plants for their recovery against diseases. But, the recent tendency to avoid natural sources rather than artificial sources against disease is frustrating. Because continuous reports of antibiotic resistance as well as the side effects of synthetic drugs all over the world are indicating a global health alert. The higher occurrence rate of worldwide diabetes, cancer, obesity, hypertension, and neurodegenerative diseases becomes alarming to all. Huge researches are carried out to find the causes and remedies of them. Therefore, to search for a better alternative than synthetic drug becomes the demand of time.Medicinal plants may be a good option to play pivotal role against such complications. But, before that their previous use and curability should be justified. Medicinal plants are the source of enormous secondary metabolites. The diverse role of secondary metabolites may provide a key of the door of undiscovered remedy against diseases. In that case, long term research on medicinal plant is essential to justify their potential. Moreover, the use of medicinal plants is important for its ecofriendly significance as well as its fewer side effects than other synthetic drugs. Additionally, it will be comparatively safer and cheaper than man-made drugs formulation.South Asia, as one of the highest sources of medicinal plant in the world, provides enormous medicinal plants including kakrol, having several significant folk uses but not clinically evaluated till now. Therefore, vast chances have been created to justify the dynamic ethnobotanical and phytotherapeutical roles of several plants for future researchers. This paper has mainly focused on the phytotherapeutical and pharmacological potential ofMomordica dioica. As it contains significant amount of antioxidant, vitamin, secondary metabolites, and other important ingredients, these may be helpful to fight against several diseases including diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. For example, ethyl acetate and ethanol extract of kakrol containing steroids, tritepenoids etc. have potential role in alloxan-induced diabetic rats and broadly type 2 diabetes. Similarly, methanol and aqueous extract of its fruit pulp have neuroprotective activities.Therefore, this paper will be fruitful if it stimulates the researcher’s emphasis to justify the unrevealed but potential therapeutic properties ofMomordica dioica against diabetes, cancer, neurodegenerative disease, and other life threatening disorders.



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*Source: 806082-2014-08-12.xml*