Akapulko (Cassia alata) Herbal Medicine

Akapulko Health Benefits, Dosage, Side effects and Warnings.

Scientific Name: Cassia alata

Other names:

bayabas-bayabasan,kapurko, katanda, katandang aso, pakagonkon, sonting (Tag.); andadasi, andadasi-a-dakdakel, andadasi-bugbugtong (Ilk.); adadisi (Ting.); ancharasi (Ig.); andalan (Sul.); bayabasin, bikas-bikas (Bik., Tag., Bis.,); kasitas (Bik., Bis.); sunting, palo china (Bis.); pakayomkom kastila (Pamp.); ringworm bush or shrub (Engl.), Acapulco (Engl)

The Akapulko leaves contain chrysophanic acid, a fungicide that is used to treat fungal infections, like ringworms, scabies and eczema.. Akapulko leaves are also known to be sudorific, diuretic and purgative, usedto treat intestinal problems including intestinal parasites. Akapulko is also used as herbal medicine to treat bronchitis and asthma. Because of Akapulko’s anti-fungal properties, it is a common ingredient in soaps, shampoos, and lotions in the Philippines. The Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) has helped develop the technology for a Akapulko herbal medicine lotion.
Akapulko is an erect, shrubby legume with dark green compound leaves. Akapulko leaves have orange rachis that has 16-28 leaflets. Akapulko produces an axis of golden yellow flowers that has 4-winged pods containing 50-60 flattened, triangular seeds. Akapulko flowers are enclosed by yellow-orange bracts that are later shed in time.

Ampalaya / Bitter Melon Herbal Medicine

Momordica Charantia, Uses, Health Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects

Scientific Name: Momordica charantia

Other names:

Ampalaya, Bitter melon, papailla, melao de sao caetano, bittergourd, sorosi, a'jayib al maasi, assorossie, balsam apple, balsam pear, chin li chih, ejinrin gule khandan, fu-kua, karela, k'u kua kurela, kor-kuey, ku gua, lai p'u t'ao, pava-aki, salsamino, sorci, sorossi, sorossie, sorossies, pare, peria laut, peria

Ampalaya Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) also known as Bitter Melon is a tropical and subtropical vine of the family Cucurbitaceae, widely grown in the Amazon, Carribean, South east Asia such as Philippines for its edible fruit. Ampalaya or bitter melon also known as bitter gourd as the name implies has a bitter taste due to the presence of momordicin, and is believed to be among the most bitter of all vegetables.
Ampalaya Bitter Melon is a climbing vine that grows up to 5m, with tendrils up to 20cm. long. Amplaya leaves are heart-shaped, 5-10 cm across, cut into 5-7 lobes. Each Ampalaya Bitter Melon plant bears separate yellow male and female flowers. Ampalaya bears fleshy green fruit, oblong shaped with pointed ends, ribbed and wrinkled, bursting when mature to release seeds. Ampalaya seeds are flat with ruminated margins.

Ampalaya Traditional Medicinal Uses and Health benefits

Ampalaya has a long history of medical usage and has a long list of folkloric health benefits for the following conditions.
Diabetes. Ampalaya or bitter gourd is a widely used herbal remedy to lower the blood sugar levels for diabetic patients.

Analgesic. The juice of Amplaya is used to alleviate symptoms of fever, headache and body pains.

Eye problems. Amplaya juice is also used to treat eye related problems that include sty and sore eyes. It is thought to improve eyesight and prevents the development of cataract.

Respiratory ailments. The juice from amplaya fruit and leaves are used to treat various respiratory problems that may include, asthma, wheezing cough, bronchitis and pharyngitis.

Hair and scalp problems. Ampalaya or bitter gourd has been used to treat various hair and scalp problems that may include hair loss, dry scalp, lice and pimples on the scalp.

Weight loss. Ampalaya is also used to promote body metabolism and the burning of fats thus it is valued as a weight loss supplement.

Source of energy. The vitamins and mineral found in ampalaya is considered as a stamina builder that combats fatigue.

Antioxidant. Amplaya is also considered as a potent anti-oxidant acitivity that counters the oxidation of free radicals that is the cause of cancer.

Stomach problems. Ampalaya leaf extract is a folkloric remedy for various stomach ache and problems that include indigestion, dyspepsia, parasite infestation, diarrhea and constipation.

Hepatoprotection activity. Ampalaya is used as a herbal remedy to protect the liver from damage due to intake of alcohol and other harmful substances.

Skin problems. Ampalaya is crushed or rubbed over the skin to alleviate symptoms of psoriasis, ringworm, athlete’s foot, wounds, burns and ulcers.

Boosts the immune system.  Ampalaya is also used to boost the immune system and as a supplement to build body resistance during sickness.

HIV virus. Ampalaya is also being considered as treatment ot viral diseases that include HIV, malaria, chicken fox and measles.

Menopause. Ampalaya tea is taken as a remedy for pain and discomfort associated to menopause.

Anti-inflammatory activity. Ampalaya leaf extract combined with coconut oil is used to alleviate inflammation and pain associated to gout, arthritis, rheumatism and other body pains.

Cholesterol control. Ampalaya is also widely consumed to lower the cholesterol level in the blood that helps to prevent the build up of plaque along the arterial walls.

Hemorrhoids. Ampalaya is used as astringent to treat hemorrhoids.

Contraceptive. Ampalaya has been used in folkloric medicine as an abortificient and as a contraceptive to prevent pregnancy.

Science Research: Momordica charantia Health Benefits

Antioxidant properties of Momordica Charantia (bitter gourd) seeds on Streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.
The aim of the present study is to investigate the antioxidant activities of the aqueous extract of seeds of Momordica charantia in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Oral administration of seed extracts at a concentration of 150 mg/kg b.w for 30 days showed a significant decrease in fasting blood glucose, hepatic and renal thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and hydroperoxides. The treatment also resulted in a significant increase in reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-s-transferase in the liver and kidney of diabetic rats. The results clearly suggest that seeds of Momordica charantia treated group may effectively normalize the impaired antioxidant status in streptozotocin induced-diabetes than the glibenclamide treated groups. The extract exerted rapid protective effects against lipid peroxidation by scavenging of free radicals there by reducing the risk of diabetic complications. Source : Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2015..
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15927932
Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) extract inhibits breast cancer cell proliferation by modulating cell cycle regulatory genes and promotes apoptosis.
In this study, we have used human breast cancer cells, and primary human mammary epithelial cells as an in vitro model to assess the efficacy of bitter melon (Momordica charantia) extract as an anticancer agent. The bitter melon (Momordica charantia) extract treatment of breast cancer cells resulted in a significant decrease in cell proliferation and induced apoptotic cell death. Subsequent studies showed that bitter melon extract treatment of breast cancer cells inhibited survivin and claspin expression. Further studies revealed that bitter melon extract treatment enhanced p53, p21, and pChk1/2 and inhibited cyclin B1 and cyclin D1 expression, suggesting an additional mechanism involving cell cycle regulation. Together, these results show that bitter melon extract modulates signal transduction pathways for inhibition of breast cancer cell growth and can be used as a dietary supplement for prevention of breast cancer. Source: Cancer Research March 2010
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20179194
Momordica charantia for type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Momordica charantia (bitter gourd) is not only a nutritious vegetable but it is also used in traditional medical practices to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. Experimental studies with animals and humans suggested that the vegetable has a possible role in glycaemic control. The study assessed the effects of mormodica charantia for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Source:  Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012 Aug
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22895968
Momordica charantia and type 2 diabetes: from in vitro to human studies.
This review describes anti-diabetic effects of bitter gourd reported in the literature and discusses what still needs to be clarified for developing an evidence-based and safe use of the bitter gourd for diabetes. Analyses of bioactive compounds have shown that bitter gourd is rich in nutrients and phytochemicals of which some have anti-diabetic effects. Juices, powders, extracts, and isolated compounds have been tested in vitro and in vivo. Bitter gourd increases insulin secretion of the pancreas, decreases intestinal glucose uptake, and increases uptake and utilization of glucose in peripheral tissues. Although human studies with type 2 diabetics are weak in their design and/or results, some of the studies do indicate anti-diabetic effects in patients and safety for bitter gourd treatment in humans. In the future, well designed studies with rodents will help to understand what kind of bitter gourd variety, dosage, preparation, and duration of administration is optimal. Such results will help to design human studies which are necessary to prove the effectiveness of bitter gourd in patients. Source: Current Diabetes Reviews. 2014 Jan.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24295371
Momordica charantia Extract Induces Apoptosis in Human Cancer Cells through Caspase- and Mitochondria-Dependent Pathways.
The study evaluated and explored the potential effectiveness of Momordica charanti. , Methanol extract of Momordica charantia was used to evaluate the cytotoxic activity on four human cancer cell lines,  in this study. Methanol extract of Momordica charantia showed cytotoxic activity towards all cancer cells tested, with the approximate IC(50) ranging from 0.25 to 0.35 mg/mL at 24 h. MCME induced cell death was found to be time-dependent in these cells. Methanol extract of Momordica charantia activated caspase-3 and enhanced the cleavage of downstream DFF45 and PARP, subsequently leading to DNA fragmentation and nuclear condensation. The apoptogenic protein, Bax, was increased, whereas Bcl-2 was decreased after treating for 24 h in all cancer cells, indicating the involvement of mitochondrial pathway in MCME-induced cell death. These findings indicate that CME has cytotoxic effects on human cancer cells and exhibits promising anti-cancer activity by triggering apoptosis through the regulation of caspases and mitochondria. Source: Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2012.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23091557
Influence of Momordica charantia on oxidative stress-induced perturbations in brain monoamines and plasma corticosterone in albino rats
The objective of this study was to evaluate the antistress activity of Momordica charantia  fruit extract on stress-induced changes in albino rats and also to explore attenuating effects of MC on in vitro lipid peroxidation in rat brain. Results have showed that pretreatment with MC at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg p.o. significantly countered AS-induced changes and a similar effect was exhibited by PQ at 100 mg/kg p.o.  This study reveals the antistress activity of MC as it significantly reverted the stress-induced changes, and the activity might be attributed to its antioxidant activity since stress is known to involve several oxidative mechanisms. Source: Indian Pharmacological Society. 2011 Jul-Aug
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3153706/

How to Get and How to Use Ampalaya

Where can I get or buy Ampalaya?

Amplaya or Bitter Melon for Cooking. Ampalaya fruits and leaves are usually available in Asian or Chinese markets. They can be bought fresh by the kilo, per piece or by bundles.
Ampalaya or Bitter Melon Capsules, Bitter melon, as its name implies, is quite bitter, which is why many often prefer to take capsules and tablets.Ready-made bitter melon extracts are available in capsules and tablets in many Asian markets, herb shops, and in the supplement department of health food stores.
The internet is full of online stores that sells ampalaya extracts, tablets or capsules, When you do, look for standardized extracts (to 10% charantin for instance) or concentrated whole fruit extracts (4:1 or 5:1) to help insure sufficient activity. If you are in US, Canada or UK, where Asian or Chinese health shops may not be available. Amazon.com provides an alternative. Look for products that have favorable customers reviews such as Bitter Melon GOLD. We are not affiliated with this brand and give this only as a sample reference. There are numerous to pick from, but be sure to review the manufacturer and the comments to ensure quality and safety.

How to Use Ampalaya Herbal Medicine

Cooking. Green fruit and young leaves of Ampalaya are cooked mixed with meat. To lessen the bitterness of the ampalaya fruit, wash or even boiled in water with salt.
Poultice. Grounded ampalaya leaves, seeds and root are prepared as poultice applied externally over the affected area to alleviate pain and symptoms of inflammation. It is usually mixed with other herbal oils such as olive and coconut oil.
Ampalaya herbal tea. Decoction of tea may be prepared from the powdered Ampalaya or Bitter Melon leaves, seeds and flower.

Ampalaya herbal tea or decoction

1. Cut or crush a cup of Ampalaya seeds, leaves and flowers
2. Steep in 4 cups of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes
3. Let it cool and strain
4. drink a cup three times a day.

Ampalaya herbal tea is good to last for one day. Make new Ampalaya herbal tea as needed.
Dried ampalaya leaves, flowers and seeds are more potent, use at half dosage.

Ampalaya or Bitter Melon Juice. Ampalaya Bitter melon leaves and fruit (without the seeds) are pounded and juiced to extract concentrated juice. The juice can be taken at a spoonful for adults while teaspoonful for chilren. Ampalaya bitter melon juice can also be added to other plesant tasting juice for drinking. Dosage is 1 tablespoon 2 times a day until symptoms improve.

Dosage, Warnings and Side Effects of Ampalaya

Ampalaya fruit and young leaves are considered safe for consumption as found in food. Herbal medicine preparations should be taken as recommended for most adults. Just lilke any other herbal medicine, the key is moderation of use.
Counter indications:
When under medications for diabetes, hypertension, heart problems, etc., Taking Ampalaya in medicinal dosages may counter-act or aggravate its effectiveness. It is advised to consult your doctor before using this herb.

Pregnancy and Breast feeding. There is a study that suggests the abortive action of Momordica charantia in large doses during pregnancy. It is recommended to avoid its use more than what is found in food.

Momordica Charantia, Uses, Health Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects

Scientific Name: Momordica charantia

Other names:

Ampalaya, Bitter melon, papailla, melao de sao caetano, bittergourd, sorosi, a'jayib al maasi, assorossie, balsam apple, balsam pear, chin li chih, ejinrin gule khandan, fu-kua, karela, k'u kua kurela, kor-kuey, ku gua, lai p'u t'ao, pava-aki, salsamino, sorci, sorossi, sorossie, sorossies, pare, peria laut, peria

Ampalaya Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) also known as Bitter Melon is a tropical and subtropical vine of the family Cucurbitaceae, widely grown in the Amazon, Carribean, South east Asia such as Philippines for its edible fruit. Ampalaya or bitter melon also known as bitter gourd as the name implies has a bitter taste due to the presence of momordicin, and is believed to be among the most bitter of all vegetables.
Ampalaya Bitter Melon is a climbing vine that grows up to 5m, with tendrils up to 20cm. long. Amplaya leaves are heart-shaped, 5-10 cm across, cut into 5-7 lobes. Each Ampalaya Bitter Melon plant bears separate yellow male and female flowers. Ampalaya bears fleshy green fruit, oblong shaped with pointed ends, ribbed and wrinkled, bursting when mature to release seeds. Ampalaya seeds are flat with ruminated margins.

Ampalaya Traditional Medicinal Uses and Health benefits

Ampalaya has a long history of medical usage and has a long list of folkloric health benefits for the following conditions.
Diabetes. Ampalaya or bitter gourd is a widely used herbal remedy to lower the blood sugar levels for diabetic patients.

Analgesic. The juice of Amplaya is used to alleviate symptoms of fever, headache and body pains.

Eye problems. Amplaya juice is also used to treat eye related problems that include sty and sore eyes. It is thought to improve eyesight and prevents the development of cataract.

Respiratory ailments. The juice from amplaya fruit and leaves are used to treat various respiratory problems that may include, asthma, wheezing cough, bronchitis and pharyngitis.

Hair and scalp problems. Ampalaya or bitter gourd has been used to treat various hair and scalp problems that may include hair loss, dry scalp, lice and pimples on the scalp.

Weight loss. Ampalaya is also used to promote body metabolism and the burning of fats thus it is valued as a weight loss supplement.

Source of energy. The vitamins and mineral found in ampalaya is considered as a stamina builder that combats fatigue.

Antioxidant. Amplaya is also considered as a potent anti-oxidant acitivity that counters the oxidation of free radicals that is the cause of cancer.

Stomach problems. Ampalaya leaf extract is a folkloric remedy for various stomach ache and problems that include indigestion, dyspepsia, parasite infestation, diarrhea and constipation.

Hepatoprotection activity. Ampalaya is used as a herbal remedy to protect the liver from damage due to intake of alcohol and other harmful substances.

Skin problems. Ampalaya is crushed or rubbed over the skin to alleviate symptoms of psoriasis, ringworm, athlete’s foot, wounds, burns and ulcers.

Boosts the immune system.  Ampalaya is also used to boost the immune system and as a supplement to build body resistance during sickness.

HIV virus. Ampalaya is also being considered as treatment ot viral diseases that include HIV, malaria, chicken fox and measles.

Menopause. Ampalaya tea is taken as a remedy for pain and discomfort associated to menopause.

Anti-inflammatory activity. Ampalaya leaf extract combined with coconut oil is used to alleviate inflammation and pain associated to gout, arthritis, rheumatism and other body pains.

Cholesterol control. Ampalaya is also widely consumed to lower the cholesterol level in the blood that helps to prevent the build up of plaque along the arterial walls.

Hemorrhoids. Ampalaya is used as astringent to treat hemorrhoids.

Contraceptive. Ampalaya has been used in folkloric medicine as an abortificient and as a contraceptive to prevent pregnancy.

Science Research: Momordica charantia Health Benefits

Antioxidant properties of Momordica Charantia (bitter gourd) seeds on Streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.
The aim of the present study is to investigate the antioxidant activities of the aqueous extract of seeds of Momordica charantia in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Oral administration of seed extracts at a concentration of 150 mg/kg b.w for 30 days showed a significant decrease in fasting blood glucose, hepatic and renal thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and hydroperoxides. The treatment also resulted in a significant increase in reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-s-transferase in the liver and kidney of diabetic rats. The results clearly suggest that seeds of Momordica charantia treated group may effectively normalize the impaired antioxidant status in streptozotocin induced-diabetes than the glibenclamide treated groups. The extract exerted rapid protective effects against lipid peroxidation by scavenging of free radicals there by reducing the risk of diabetic complications. Source : Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2015..
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15927932
Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) extract inhibits breast cancer cell proliferation by modulating cell cycle regulatory genes and promotes apoptosis.
In this study, we have used human breast cancer cells, and primary human mammary epithelial cells as an in vitro model to assess the efficacy of bitter melon (Momordica charantia) extract as an anticancer agent. The bitter melon (Momordica charantia) extract treatment of breast cancer cells resulted in a significant decrease in cell proliferation and induced apoptotic cell death. Subsequent studies showed that bitter melon extract treatment of breast cancer cells inhibited survivin and claspin expression. Further studies revealed that bitter melon extract treatment enhanced p53, p21, and pChk1/2 and inhibited cyclin B1 and cyclin D1 expression, suggesting an additional mechanism involving cell cycle regulation. Together, these results show that bitter melon extract modulates signal transduction pathways for inhibition of breast cancer cell growth and can be used as a dietary supplement for prevention of breast cancer. Source: Cancer Research March 2010
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20179194
Momordica charantia for type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Momordica charantia (bitter gourd) is not only a nutritious vegetable but it is also used in traditional medical practices to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. Experimental studies with animals and humans suggested that the vegetable has a possible role in glycaemic control. The study assessed the effects of mormodica charantia for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Source:  Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012 Aug
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22895968
Momordica charantia and type 2 diabetes: from in vitro to human studies.
This review describes anti-diabetic effects of bitter gourd reported in the literature and discusses what still needs to be clarified for developing an evidence-based and safe use of the bitter gourd for diabetes. Analyses of bioactive compounds have shown that bitter gourd is rich in nutrients and phytochemicals of which some have anti-diabetic effects. Juices, powders, extracts, and isolated compounds have been tested in vitro and in vivo. Bitter gourd increases insulin secretion of the pancreas, decreases intestinal glucose uptake, and increases uptake and utilization of glucose in peripheral tissues. Although human studies with type 2 diabetics are weak in their design and/or results, some of the studies do indicate anti-diabetic effects in patients and safety for bitter gourd treatment in humans. In the future, well designed studies with rodents will help to understand what kind of bitter gourd variety, dosage, preparation, and duration of administration is optimal. Such results will help to design human studies which are necessary to prove the effectiveness of bitter gourd in patients. Source: Current Diabetes Reviews. 2014 Jan.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24295371
Momordica charantia Extract Induces Apoptosis in Human Cancer Cells through Caspase- and Mitochondria-Dependent Pathways.
The study evaluated and explored the potential effectiveness of Momordica charanti. , Methanol extract of Momordica charantia was used to evaluate the cytotoxic activity on four human cancer cell lines,  in this study. Methanol extract of Momordica charantia showed cytotoxic activity towards all cancer cells tested, with the approximate IC(50) ranging from 0.25 to 0.35 mg/mL at 24 h. MCME induced cell death was found to be time-dependent in these cells. Methanol extract of Momordica charantia activated caspase-3 and enhanced the cleavage of downstream DFF45 and PARP, subsequently leading to DNA fragmentation and nuclear condensation. The apoptogenic protein, Bax, was increased, whereas Bcl-2 was decreased after treating for 24 h in all cancer cells, indicating the involvement of mitochondrial pathway in MCME-induced cell death. These findings indicate that CME has cytotoxic effects on human cancer cells and exhibits promising anti-cancer activity by triggering apoptosis through the regulation of caspases and mitochondria. Source: Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2012.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23091557
Influence of Momordica charantia on oxidative stress-induced perturbations in brain monoamines and plasma corticosterone in albino rats
The objective of this study was to evaluate the antistress activity of Momordica charantia  fruit extract on stress-induced changes in albino rats and also to explore attenuating effects of MC on in vitro lipid peroxidation in rat brain. Results have showed that pretreatment with MC at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg p.o. significantly countered AS-induced changes and a similar effect was exhibited by PQ at 100 mg/kg p.o.  This study reveals the antistress activity of MC as it significantly reverted the stress-induced changes, and the activity might be attributed to its antioxidant activity since stress is known to involve several oxidative mechanisms. Source: Indian Pharmacological Society. 2011 Jul-Aug
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3153706/

How to Get and How to Use Ampalaya

Where can I get or buy Ampalaya?

Amplaya or Bitter Melon for Cooking. Ampalaya fruits and leaves are usually available in Asian or Chinese markets. They can be bought fresh by the kilo, per piece or by bundles.
Ampalaya or Bitter Melon Capsules, Bitter melon, as its name implies, is quite bitter, which is why many often prefer to take capsules and tablets.Ready-made bitter melon extracts are available in capsules and tablets in many Asian markets, herb shops, and in the supplement department of health food stores.
The internet is full of online stores that sells ampalaya extracts, tablets or capsules, When you do, look for standardized extracts (to 10% charantin for instance) or concentrated whole fruit extracts (4:1 or 5:1) to help insure sufficient activity. If you are in US, Canada or UK, where Asian or Chinese health shops may not be available. Amazon.com provides an alternative. Look for products that have favorable customers reviews such as Bitter Melon GOLD. We are not affiliated with this brand and give this only as a sample reference. There are numerous to pick from, but be sure to review the manufacturer and the comments to ensure quality and safety.

How to Use Ampalaya Herbal Medicine

Cooking. Green fruit and young leaves of Ampalaya are cooked mixed with meat. To lessen the bitterness of the ampalaya fruit, wash or even boiled in water with salt.
Poultice. Grounded ampalaya leaves, seeds and root are prepared as poultice applied externally over the affected area to alleviate pain and symptoms of inflammation. It is usually mixed with other herbal oils such as olive and coconut oil.
Ampalaya herbal tea. Decoction of tea may be prepared from the powdered Ampalaya or Bitter Melon leaves, seeds and flower.

Ampalaya herbal tea or decoction

1. Cut or crush a cup of Ampalaya seeds, leaves and flowers
2. Steep in 4 cups of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes
3. Let it cool and strain
4. drink a cup three times a day.

Ampalaya herbal tea is good to last for one day. Make new Ampalaya herbal tea as needed.
Dried ampalaya leaves, flowers and seeds are more potent, use at half dosage.

Ampalaya or Bitter Melon Juice. Ampalaya Bitter melon leaves and fruit (without the seeds) are pounded and juiced to extract concentrated juice. The juice can be taken at a spoonful for adults while teaspoonful for chilren. Ampalaya bitter melon juice can also be added to other plesant tasting juice for drinking. Dosage is 1 tablespoon 2 times a day until symptoms improve.

Dosage, Warnings and Side Effects of Ampalaya

Ampalaya fruit and young leaves are considered safe for consumption as found in food. Herbal medicine preparations should be taken as recommended for most adults. Just lilke any other herbal medicine, the key is moderation of use.
Counter indications:
When under medications for diabetes, hypertension, heart problems, etc., Taking Ampalaya in medicinal dosages may counter-act or aggravate its effectiveness. It is advised to consult your doctor before using this herb.

Pregnancy and Breast feeding. There is a study that suggests the abortive action of Momordica charantia in large doses during pregnancy. It is recommended to avoid its use more than what is found in food.

22+ Real Online Survey Companies that Pays Cash

Everyday companies pay big bucks just to know what people like you are thinking. They are eager to understand how you think while shopping and why you buy certain products. After completing the survey you get paid by cash, PayPal, gift cards, or other rewards. Feel free to sign up on as many sites as possible to maximize your earning potential.

Real Online Surveys that Actually Pay for Your Opinion

Many of the panels below are only open to US residents. If you do not live in the US, you can view this list of global survey panels separated by country here.

1. Pinecone Research

This company is owned by  Nielson and has been around since 1999 and usually pays around $3 for every survey you complete. The payment options are by check, PayPal, or reward gift cards.

2. Toluna

Toluna is a market research company that pays members to take surveys online and “on the go”. You will earn $1-$5 for each online survey you qualify for and get paid via PayPal. In addition, members are paid to test free products.

3. Swagbucks 

Get paid to take short online surveys, watch movie trailers, play games and much more! Swagbucks is open to everyone worldwide and payment is made via PayPal or reward gift cards.

4. Homescan Consumer Panel 

Earn valuable points, which are redeemable for FREE electronics, household items, jewelry, toy, gift cards, and more. Paid survey opportunities are also available for residents in the US, Canada, Australia and Hong Kong.

5. Mindspay 

Get paid to review products and take online surveys. Registration is completely free.

6. Survey Savvy

Survey Savvy is one of my favorite survey panels that you must join. All members are paid by check for participating in online surveys. No minimum amount is needed to cash out. If you are interested in seeing my payment proof, click here.

7. Cash Crate 

Get paid to take online surveys, shop online, play games and more. Once you sign up, click on the “Daily Surveys” section to start earning .50 per survey. Cash out at $20 through PayPal.

8. Global Test Market

This is a trusted online survey panel that pays you to test and give your opinion on various products. Global Test Market is also open to residents in countries such as Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia. Pay is via check, PayPal or gift cards.

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Opinion Outpost is one of the most popular market research companies that have been around for many years. No fees are required to sign up and members are paid cash for sharing their opinion. Payments are made via PayPal.

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This site has a variety of ways to earn money and completing surveys is one of them. Inbox Dollars pays panelists to read e-mails, take surveys, shop online and more.

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Join the Ipsos I-Say Panel where you will earn reward points for taking online surveys.

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Sign up with iPoll today and get $5 instantly in your PayPal account.

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Get paid to express your opinion after you sign up for free on the site. This survey panel is only open to US residents.

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Get paid $50 to participate in research studies online using your web cam by answering seven questions. The majority of the online surveys take less than 20 minutes to complete and payment is made through PayPal.

16. VIP Voice

Join VIP Voice and earn cash and prizes for giving your opinion.

17. Surveys for Moms

These are paid online surveys that are tailor made for moms, with payments being made through PayPal once you accumulate $20 or more.

50 Companies That Pay $16/Hr (or More) to Work from Home

50 Companies That Pay $16/Hr (or More) to Work from Home

 

Tired of finding work from home jobs that pay minimum wage?
Companies these days are expanding their office boundaries to incorporate the idea of working from home. These companies offer employees flexible working hours, better pay and freedom from office walls. Even though the internet is flooded with many online jobs, there are some that offer better pay.
Here is a list of companies that pay $16 per hour or more to work from home.

I also recommend FlexJobs. The company has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau,  along with a money-back policy if you are unhappy with the website. FlexJobs guarantees that every single job is 100% legitimate.

Phone Work

Please Note: Some of these companies hire only in specific regions. However, most are open to the idea of foreign global contractors.
#1 – Brighten Communications Brighten Communications contracts telemarketers based in U.S. and pays up to $18 per hour. As an independent contractor for the company, you require a landline phone to carry all the business calls as well as a long-distance phone service.

Loving this Content? Pin This Image on Pinterest!

#2 – Working Solutions is a company that offers diverse services including telemarketing, remote agents and CRM solutions. Successful applicants/Agents receive free training and can work from any location. Payment is per project and can reach up to $30 per hour.
#3 – Arise is a renowned company that contracts work at home customer service agents in the U.S. Their pay depends on the kind of client you are assigned to work with, but usually, ranges from $10-$20 per hour. The great thing about this job is flexibility. You can work as much as you want.

#4 – American Express (review) (review)only hires work at home customer service agents from selected U.S. States. You must be ready to work a minimum of 40 hours every work. The beginners pay is $16 per hour but as you progress you stand to earn $28 per hour.

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#5 – NexRep (review) hires sales and customer service agents to work from home. Your job description comprises of taking inbound and outbound calls. The pay is up to $25 per hour and commissioned based.
#6 – ACD Direct is a call center company that provides work-at-home jobs, which involves answering calls from pledge campaigns organized by Non-profit organizations. They pay rate range from $0.25-0.30 per minute, which translates to $18 per hour.
#7 – Contract world is a recruitment company for businesses such as KFC, Pizza Hut, Shopping Network and more. The pay ranges from $11-$16 per hour with deposits made directly twice a month. Requirements include a dedicated phone line, high-speed internet connection, and a web camera.

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#8 – Pleio is a call service company that seeks to hire workers who can call patients and remind them to take their medications. The process of hiring involves undergoing a screening process, taking a test and doing a mock call. Pay is $15-$20 per hour.
#9 – Blue Zebra Appointment hires appointment setters to work from home in the USA and Canada residents. It is a cold calling work from home company that pays employees up to $25 per hour, depending on their level of expertise and experience.
#10 – Neiman-Marcus is a customer service company that employs home-based workers from Dallas only. Nonetheless, plans are already underway to expand to other locations. Pay is $11-$16 per hour.

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Transcription

#11- TranscribeMe,  a company that pays up to $20 per hour for an audio transcription. As a requirement, you must pass their short transcription test for you to be shortlisted for transcription projects. TranscribeMe pays weekly via PayPal for every completed order. I recommend checking out Janet’s FREE 4-day transcription course to help you turn your passion into a full-time career.
#12 – Rev is a transcription company that requires you to work as much or little as you want. As a qualification, you need to pass the skill test for you to access the transcription assignments. The pay ranges between $24-$39 per audio hour made every week through PayPal.
#13 – Quicktate (review) hires newbie transcriptionists once you pass the skill test. Mostly, you will be handling short voicemail messages. The company pays one cent for every four words and payment is on a weekly basis through PayPal.
#14 – Time Etc. offers you the chance to work as a virtual assistant to different clients. You are required to work a minimum of 5 hours per week. The pay is estimated to be up to $16 per hour.
#15 – 3 Play Media relies solely on home-based transcriptionist to transcribe audio files. Just like most transcription companies, you must pass the skill test before accessing audio assignments. The company prefers you to use a foot pedal or transcription software. The job pays up to $25 per hour.
#16 – SpectraMedi is an online company that offers multiple part-time and full-time positions for Medical Billers and Transcriptionists. Since the position requires certification, the salary is much more than $16 per hour.

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Search Evaluator

#17 – Appen Butler Hill – This international company contracts social media evaluators to work for home. Once you are done with the train you stand to receive over $13 per hour.
#18 – LeapForce hires independent contractors to assess search engines with a weekly pay of $13-$16 per hour. Posts are only open to those living in the United States, Canada, Norway, Brazil, Denmark and Norway. You are required to pass a two-part evaluation exam before becoming Leap Force contractor.

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Online Tutoring

#19 – Chegg is an online tutoring company allows you to work according to your terms. Chegg pays tutors $20 an hour. Some of the company’s top earners get $1000 per month.
#20 – InstaEdu is an online company hiring work at home tutors to teach online students different school topics. Payment is usually $20 per hour made using PayPal. Teaching sessions take place through Skype, text message, video chats or even whiteboards.
#21 – A Pass Educational Group offers you the chance to work at home as an educational subject matter expert. These positions pay a range of $20 to $30 per hour.
#22 – Manhattan Prep offers individual posts the option of work at home. Such positions pay as much as $100 an hour.
#24 – Magoosh – If you are good at GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, SAT, and ACT, and tests, Magoosh is looking to hire online test prep experts to help students prepare for these papers. As a requirement, you must be an experienced BA or BS holder with high scores in GRE, SAT, GMAT. The standard pay for weekdays is $20 an hour and shoots up to $25 an hour over the weekends.
#25 – Verdant is a company that occasionally hires virtual raters to evaluate how well Chinese students speak English. You stand to earn $15-24 per hour.

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Virtual Assistant

#26 – Worldwide 101 pays Virtual Assistants up to $20 per hour. Contractors are required to work a minimum of 20 hours per week.
#27– Virtual Office Temps is open to all virtual assistants and it offers services such as clerical support, administration, management and sales support among many other professional business services. Pay is $10 to $35 per hour depending on the task.
#28 – ShowMojo is dedicated to streamlining the real estate business with solutions to home owners and managers. The company currently is hiring particular work at home positions to help with scheduling and showing process of rentals. Posts such as sales manager, call center manager and automation expert pay about $20 an hour.

Web Designing

#29 – 10UP is a web development company that gives employees the chance to work remotely. There are seasonal openings for web designers, developers, and engineers. Employees get roughly $20 per hour pay equivalent to 85k monthly salary.
#30 – Art Logic – If you are great at coding at willing to work from home, try applying for an Art Logic job online vacancy. The company occasionally hires system developers who earn $20 per hour respective of the job.
#31 – SitePen – For tech enthusiasts looking for a remote work experience, SitePen is hiring JavaScript engineers, web developers, project managers, software engineers. These positions pay $80k annual which rounds up to $20 an hour.
#32 – Github – This software company allows its employees to work remotely. The company has regular openings for techy posts such as developers, with an annual salary of $60k.

Medical

#33 – Carenet – For a nurse looking to make some extra bucks from the comfort of your home, try Carenet. This is an online company that hires registered nurses for telephone triage. Carenet pays $25 for every hour.
#34 – CircleLink Health hires only licensed health practitioners looking to make extra cash online. CircleLink Health pays $20 per hour to every work at home employee.
#35 – Amphion Medical requires its contracted medical coders to be certified with at least one year of experience. While working from home you can make $25 per hour.
#36 – Precyse – This fantastic company hires remote coders familiar with medical programming. Your earns lie in the neighborhood of $20 to $30 per hour.
#37 – Humana – This well-known company hires Customer Service Specialists by responding to questions and providing guidance to internal and external customers. You can make anywhere from $15-$18 per hour.

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Proofreading/Editing

#38 – American Journal Experts has occasional openings for remote translators and editors. It is estimated that a translator gets roughly $20 an hour.
#39 – Book in a Box – This company has virtual posts for various positions that pay $20 per hour. The company occasionally looks for editors, book jacket designers, and proofreaders so you have to keep tabs on the company site to see if there are any openings.

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Translation

#40 – Language Service Associates hires interpreters and translators with U.S jurisdiction. The average pay for their contractors is $20 per hour.
#41 – Rosetta Stone is a language and translation company that hires language coaches. To secure employment, you must be fluent in numerous languages apart from American English. The pay ranges up to $17 per hour.

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Social Media

#42 – Buffers is a corporation offering web-based social media administration solutions. The company from time to time recruits web developers, engineers, product or customer support team. Each employ works remotely and is entitled to $20 per hour.

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Website Testing

#43 – Testing Time is a business opened to global audience looking for an opportunity to share their opinions and get paid $50 per study made. You must have access to a Skype account and work a minimum of 90 minutes. They payment takes almost a week to process.
#44 – User Testing employs home-based workers to carry out tests on various websites. To qualify as a tester, potential testers must undertake and pass a sample test. Successful testers earn up to $15 per 20 minutes. This translates to more than $45 per hour.

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Writing

#45 – CyberEdit, Inc. offers highly advanced services in resume writing, technical writing, and text editing. It hires competent freelance essay writers with remuneration ranging from $15-30 per hour.
#46 – Crawford Media Services hires independent contractors to carry out metadata writing, SE optimization, and tagging. However, most of their projects are seasonal or occasional. Pay can go up to $18 per hour depending on the task.

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Miscellaneous Jobs

#47 – CrowdSource hires individuals to complete various tasks ranging from marketing, profile verification, writing and text editing. Freelancers receive payment after completing various tasks. Payment ranges from $15 for simple tasks to $30 per hour for more complex tasks.
#48 – Stitch Fix – If you are a fashionista with a creative eye, try Stitch Fix a company that allows you to share fashion tips with clients on the site. For work at home stylist, Stitch Fix offers a $16+ an hour pay. As a requirement, you must be 18 years of age or more and be ready to attend their offsite training before starting the job.
#49 – ETS is a testing company that pays you to score various tests for different educational institutions. The pay can go up to $20 per hour depending on the tests. Payment is twice a month via check and is tax deductible.
#50 – Snuggle Buddies – You can become a professional cuddle and make anywhere from $40-$80 per hour. All you have to do is cuddle someone or hold someone’s hands. Yes, that’s right, a professional cuddler.

The 100 Most Popular Google Keywords [Infographic]

10 Hottest Celebrity Selfies Ever!

We start the list with probably the queen of selfies. Kim is renowned for her raunchy

photos and we think you´ll agree this one is no exception!

If you follow her instagram account you´ll be treated to a steady stream of her big
boobs and curvy bum.

THE BEST SKIN SOLUTION YOU HAVE NEVER HEAD OF

The Best Skin Solution You've Never Heard Of

Instead of throwing away precious Dollars on expensive anti-aging skin Creams that make big promises and don't work, one reader has discovered a skin product that erases years off her face for only a few Dollars. Read on to find out how it works!

"Lauren di Fiores was able to remove over 20 years of aging from her face with just 1 simple product!"

Lauren, a 72 year-old grandma from London, is a perfect example of how a little smart thinking and ingenuity can help you avoid unnecessary health risks and save you thousands of Dollars in doctors' bills.

Like most women, Lauren didn't have the extra cash to try out every celebrity endorsed anti-aging "miracle Cream" out there, let alone splurge on expensive elective medical procedures, like plastic surgery or facelifts.

Before trying this simple trick, she admits she used to spend almost an hour every day on an extensive skincare regimen consisting of over 6 different products, with seriously disappointing results. Each product made big claims promising to erase wrinkles and return her youthful skin; and while Lauren followed all their usage instructions to the letter, she saw no real results.

Frustrated and let down, she considered going so far as to take out a substantial loan for Botox injections, and even contemplated a highly risky and very expensive facelift procedure. But the high cost (ranging anywhere from $5000 - $20,000+) and the horror stories of unfixable botched procedures convinced her that cosmetic treatments were not the solution she was looking for. She was determined to find a safe and affordable anti-aging solution that would give her real results and not leave her digging her way out of a huge financial debt.

Lauren's Solution:

After a year of doing thorough research and speaking to other women about their own skincare habits, she learned of a product that was yielding real results and helping women take years off their skin: TruVisage.

After only a few days of adding TruVisage to her daily skin routine, she saw noticeable results in the mirror. After just two weeks the proof was staring her right in the face: this was giving her real results.

Using TruVisage, Lauren's results were noticeably better than what you'd find at medi-spas for $5,000 or more. This removed virtually 90% of all her wrinkles and problem areas. It tightened her face and neck, removing all signs of sagging, aging, and dehydrated skin. Lauren was able to see these dramatic anti-aging results simply by using a free sample ofTruVisage for only 14 days.

Her friends, husband, and family were all shocked. They were convinced she'd been secretly getting Botox, because her skin looked 20 years younger almost overnight! Soon, word got around as her friends starting using Lauren's secret, and not long after, her easy discovery was featured on The Doctor Oz Show!

Lauren is now one of hundreds of women that share the same incredible story. Using this method, she effectively erased 20+ years from her skin. It's changed her life and completely astonished everyone around her, even total strangers!

How does it Work?

Through her research, Lauren discovered that the real secret to TruVisage are two key ingredients:

• TruVisage's Patented Rejuvenation Formula
• Pure Aloe Vera

These are both natural ingredients that work together to erase wrinkles and fine lines at the cellular level - below the surface of the skin - which is why they're so effective.

TruVisage's Patented Rejuvenation Formula is the key to maintaining healthy, youthful skin. It's a powerful antioxidant that slows the rate of free-radical damage, which causes skin's dryness, fine lines, and wrinkles. It helps combat and even reverse time's effect on your skin, because it produces collagen - a protein which makes skin appear plump and firm.

Pure Aloe Vera works by binding to moisture. It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an excellent natural skin plumper. Pure Aloe Vera helps your skin repair and regenerate itself after suffering from dryness, environmental stresses, or irritation.

Mom's Of All Ages Are Raving!

The only thing is that I wish I could have watched the Doctors show earlier! The results of the TruVisage treatment were so shocking I couldn't believe it's my face. I look 20 years younger and I feel giddy like a school girl! 
Brenda Davis, London

I love my new skin and I can't believe the results of TruVisage. I've used dozens of big name products but none have been anywhere as good as this. Thank you!
Beatrice King New York

It's simply amazing. I can't believe how quickly I saw results. Real results! I literally saw results after the first day. I can't thank you enough, I have my youthful face back
Jane Stevens, New York

This is just amazing, I never thought I could get results like this after such a short period of time. It was only a couple of days before I started to see a real difference... incredible!
Amanda Michaels, Manchester

Dr. Richard Peters, a prominent dermatologist based in Beverly Hills, California, revealed to us that TruVisage is the celebrity secret to youthful skin because it contains the purest and most powerful forms of TruVisage's Patented Rejuvenation Formula and Pure Aloe Vera. Best of all it's all-natural, perfectly safe for all skin types, and has no nasty side effects.

What TruVisage's Patented Rejuvenation Formula & Pure Aloe Vera do is get rid of all the old, dead layers of skin and help your skin generate fresh new ones. Our tests show that you can erase almost 20 to 30 years off your face in less than 14 days. But the key is to choose the Creams and serums that contain the highest and purest quality ingredients, since they're not all the same.

Lauren's 14 Day TruVisage Results:

"The trick is that TruVisage contains high concentrations of pure TruVisage's Patented Rejuvenation Formula and Pure Aloe Vera in just the right concentrations. I also discovered that it contains all sorts of anti-oxidants, an ingredient called Dermaxyl (also known as facelift in a jar) and Ester-C (the active anti-aging compound in TruVisage's Patented Rejuvenation Formula). The instructions were easy to follow but very specific: they're important to follow precisely because it does make a visible difference. You apply just a light coat of TruVisage on your face and neck after washing and drying your face just before bed time. I saw results almost overnight, but after 14 days, the results were literally shocking. I looked how I used to look 20 years ago!" - Lauren

DAY 1:

After the first day of using TruVisage, I was surprised at how wonderful it made my skin feel. It felt like every last pore on my face was being tightened and pulled by a gigantic vacuum cleaner.

I don't know how else to describe it! I could feel a warm tingling sensation on my cheeks, around my eyes, and on my forehead. I looked in the mirror and saw that my face looked a bit rosy - the result of revitalizing blood rushing to the surface of my skin to renew my face.

After TruVisage was absorbed into my skin, my face looked firmer and had a beautiful glow to it.

DAY 5:

After five days of using TruVisage, I was shocked at the drastic results.

The lines, dark spots, and wrinkles - without question - were visibly reduced in size right before my eyes!

I was astonished by the results, and literally felt 20 years younger again. It was like watching all my wrinkles and fine lines vanish right off!

DAY 14:

After 14 days, not only had all my doubts and skepticism absolutely vanished - SO DID MY WRINKLES!

The lines on my forehead, the loose, sagging skin on my neck, my crows' feet - even the age spots on my face had COMPLETELY disappeared. I've never felt or seen anything tighten my skin with this kind of force before, no matter how expensive the product!

After the 2 weeks, my skin not only stayed that way, it actually improved every day until it became as beautiful and radiant as it was 20 years ago. By this point, all my friends and family were shocked. They couldn't believe the difference, and were convinced I was lying about not getting botox!

Why This Will Work For You:

There are plenty of skincare gimmicks out there, and most of them are ridiculously expensive. With so many options it’s only natural for you to be skeptical about the results, and so we don't want to promise our readers anything, we simply want to challenge you to do what Lauren recommends: Try it for yourself! You won't believe YOUR before and after!

Once you've experienced this anti-aging skin savior for yourself, please leave your comments below and share your success story with others, like Lauren did. Document the progression and prove to the world that you don't need to spend thousands of Dollars to LOOK AND FEEL GREAT.

Remember, TruVisage comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee or full money back. With the discounted shipping costs you will be on your way to smooth skin for under $5. But hurry, these incredible free trials won't last forever.

Update: Very Few Free Trial Offers Available As Of: Friday, April 8. 2016