ABSTRACT
In recent days over 100 studies using modern techniques have authenticated the use of bitter gourd, also named as bitter melon, karela (Hindi), balsam pear (Chinese), in diabetes and its complications (nephropathy, cataract, insulin resistance), as antibacterial as well as antiviral agent (including HIV infection), as antithelmintic and abortifacient. Traditionally it has also
Wang et al. (2008) developed a simple and specifi c analytical method for the quantitative determination of fi ve cucurbitane-type triterpinoids isolated from the fruit of bitter gourd. The triterpinoids present in the fruits were separated with an acetonitrile (0.1% acetic acid)-water (0.1% acetic acid)-methanol (0.1% acetic acid) gradient at a fl ow rate of 0.5 mL per minute. By using an evaporative light scattering detector, the main triterpinoids of bitter gourd could be detected at levels as low as 10 μg mL-1. The method has been validated for precision, repeatability, and accuracy. The relative standard deviation was between 0.6-4.4%. The method is sensitive, quick and accurate for the determination of main triterpenes and saponins in bitter gourd, and can be used for quality control of bitter gourd and its related dietary supplements.
