यो सर्वत्र हुन्छ । यो लताको मसिनो लहरो धेरै फैलिन्छ
Seti Kareli, also known as white bitter gourd or ‘titakareli
ramri’ in Nepali, is a highly valued climbing plant found across many regions.
Its scientific name is Momordica charantia (white variant). This herb is
particularly recognized for its distinctive bitter taste and medicinal
properties. Traditionally, it has been a staple in natural medicine, revered
for its ability to combat various ailments and enhance overall health.
Introduction
Seti Kareli is a
unique variety of bitter gourd distinguished by its white-colored fruit. The
plant thrives in warm climates and is commonly grown in Nepalese households,
gardens, and farmlands. Its fruits, leaves, and seeds are all utilized for
culinary and medicinal purposes. Known for its bitterness, the fruit has a
cooling effect on the body and is often dried for year-round use. Despite its
strong taste, it is a nutritional powerhouse and is an integral part of
traditional remedies.
Characteristics
- Plant
Structure: Seti Kareli is a thin, climbing vine that spreads
extensively and clings to supports like fences and walls using tendrils.
- Fruit
Appearance: The fruit is elongated, with a pale white color and a
characteristic warty surface.
- Taste
and Nature: The taste is intensely bitter but becomes slightly sweet
after consumption. It has a cooling (sheeta) nature.
- Growth
Cycle: It takes approximately 3-5 months to bear fruit, which can be
dried and stored for prolonged use.
Uses and Benefits
- Digestive
Health: Stimulates appetite, aids digestion, and enhances nutrient
absorption.
- Detoxification:
Removes toxins from the body, purifies the blood, and promotes liver
health.
- Diabetes
Management: Contains compounds that regulate blood sugar levels by
enhancing insulin sensitivity.
- Weight
Management: Aids in reducing body fat by improving metabolism.
- Immunity
Boost: Enhances the body’s resistance to diseases and infections.
- Heart
Health: Lowers high blood pressure and improves cardiovascular
function.
- Skin
and Hair: The blood-purifying properties help in treating skin
conditions and promoting healthy hair.
Advantages
- Natural
Remedy: Free from chemicals and a sustainable alternative to synthetic
drugs.
- Multipurpose
Use: Can be consumed as food, medicine, or dietary supplement.
- Wide
Availability: Easily grown and harvested in most parts of Nepal.
- Cost-Effective:
Inexpensive compared to modern medicines.
- Nutritional
Value: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants essential for
maintaining good health.
How to Use
- Culinary
Uses:
- Chutney:
The fruit can be mashed into a chutney, often combined with spices to
balance its bitterness.
- Curries:
Cooked with other vegetables to prepare savory dishes.
- Medicinal
Preparations:
- Powder:
Dry the fruit and grind it into a fine powder. Consume 3-5 grams daily
with water.
- Juice:
Extract juice from fresh fruits; consume 10-20 milliliters up to three
times a day for therapeutic effects.
- Decoction:
Boil dried pieces in water and drink the strained liquid.
- Ash:
The ash (bhasma) of the plant can be taken in doses of 1-2 grams as
medicine.
Conclusion
Seti Kareli (white
bitter gourd) is a versatile herb celebrated for its remarkable health
benefits. Its ability to combat diseases, purify the blood, and strengthen the
body’s defenses makes it an invaluable addition to any diet or healthcare
routine. Despite its bitter taste, it has gained widespread acclaim for its
sweet after-effects on health. Cultivating and utilizing this plant not only
enriches personal health but also supports sustainable living practices. By
embracing the traditional wisdom surrounding this plant, communities can
harness its full potential for holistic well-being.
