Jamaican Bitter Melon Tea
Jamaican Bitter Melon Tea is a traditional herbal beverage made by steeping sliced bitter melon (also known as bitter gourd) in hot water, often with added spices like ginger or sweeteners like honey. It is a popular home remedy and refreshment in Jamaica and other Caribbean islands, valued for its distinctively sharp, earthy flavor.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This tea is very low in calories, typically under 15 per cup, and contains negligible fat, protein, or carbohydrates. It is a good source of vitamin C and contains antioxidants and plant compounds like charantin, which are studied for their potential health benefits.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 15 kcal |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Carbs | 3.5 g |
| Fat | 0.1 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1.5 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Vitamin A | 250 IU |
| Folate | 30 µg |
| Potassium | 200 mg |
| Magnesium | 15 mg |
| Iron | 0.5 mg |
| Calcium | 10 mg |
| Phosphorus | 20 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it's deeply embedded in Jamaican folk medicine, often consumed as a 'blood purifier' or for general wellness. Its unique nutritional interest lies in its bitter compounds, which are not only a flavor profile but are also the subject of research for their potential role in supporting healthy blood sugar levels.
