Bitter Gourd (Karela):
Bitter gourd, also known as Momordica charantia, is a green, elongated vegetable with a rough and warty surface. It belongs to the cucumber and melon family (Cucurbitaceae). The taste is distinctly bitter, which gives it its name. Bitter gourd is rich in vitamins (A, C, B), minerals (iron, potassium, calcium), and dietary fiber. It is widely used in Indian and Asian cuisines for curries, stir-fries, pickles, and juices. Medicinally, it is known for controlling blood sugar levels, improving digestion, purifying blood, and boosting immunity.