Abstract

Momordica balsamina L, (Cucurbitaceae) commonly known as nkaka, has long been recognized among Bantu communities in southern Africa as a versatile plant with both nutritional and medicinal properties. Momordica balsamina is common and well distributed in Botswana, eSwatini, Namibia, and most provinces of South Africa. This manuscript reviews the traditional uses, phytochemistry, and biological activity of Momordica balsamina, moreover as a food source, and its possible transition to a potential modern therapeutic agent. Momordica balsamina has historically been used to manage various conditions including diabetes, hemorrhoids, jaundice, stomach and intestinal complaints, viral infections and even inducing labor. Momordica balsamina has been reported to possess antibacterial, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, antioxidant, antiparasitic, antiviral, and schistosomicidal activity. The biological activities are explored as they offer the potential for the plant to be developed into a pharmaceutical product. Furthermore, it highlights the potential of M. balsamina as a functional food, given its nutritional abundance and medicinal value. Findings from this review show the need for further research into the pharmacological mechanisms and potential pharmaceutical applications of M. balsamina. This review discussed the potential commercialization of the plant as a medicinal source and/or a nutraceutical.

Key words: Momordica balsamina, M. balsamina, Bantu communities, traditional medicine, nutraceuticals, bioactive compounds, functional food, pharmacological properties, southern Africa.