Title:Momordica balsamina L.: An Appraisal on Morphology, Ecological Diversity,
Phytochemistry, Pharmacological and Biotechnological Applications
Volume: 7
Issue: 4
Author(s): Saheed Sabiu*, Christiana Eleojo Aruwa, Viresh Mohanlall and Himansu Baijnath
Affiliation:
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Durban University of Technology, P.O. Box 1334, Durban, 4000,South Africa
Keywords:
Momordica balsamina, balsam apple, balsamin, cucurbitane, momordin, biotechnological application.
Abstract: Background: Momordica balsamina L. is a monoecious climbing vine and perennial
herb native to the tropical regions of Asia, Arabia and the Caribbean, and with a prominent presence
in Nigeria, Botswana, Namibia, Swaziland and Southern African provinces. While evidence
of its anecdotal usage as medicine exists, scientific reports complementing the claims are at their infancy
or still emerging.
Objective: This review presents an appraisal of the morphology, therapeutic and biotechnological
significance of M. balsamina.
Method: Online resources such as Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect and MeSH were utilized
for literature search and relevant information from inception till May 2020 was included in the
review to streamline sought outcomes for in-depth discussion.
Results: The data gathered and considered worthy of inclusion in this study revealed that M. balsamina
is rich in phytonutrients of medicinal significance including cucurbitane-type triterpenoids,
balsamin and momordins. These compounds and other novel bioactive agents in M. balsamina
have been found to possess remarkable pharmacological attributes and could further be harnessed
for use against several debilitating human disorders.
Conclusion: The potential applications of M. balsamina as a nutraceutical and pharmaceutical
agent should not be undermined. Also, with the inadequate toxicological data on this wild species,
its consumption should be with caution and translational studies that could advance scientific
knowledge and aid better understanding of both its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics properties
without sidelining its potent biotechnological applications are highly encouraged. It is hoped
that this paper will provide baseline information that could serve as a guide and inspiration for further
studies on the prospects of M. balsamina.
