Common Name : Bitter Gourd Other Name : Bitter Gourd, Karela, African Cucumber, Balsam Pear. Botanical Name : Momordica Charantia Linn. Plant Family : Cucurbitaceae Part Used : Fruits Overview : Dehydrated Fruits Powder Momordica charantia often called melon, bitter gourd, bitter squash or karela. This herbaceous, tendril-bearing vine grows to 5m. It bears simple, alternate leaves, separate yellow male and female flowers. The fruit has a distinct warty exterior and an oblong shape. The tender or unripe fruits are used fresh as well dried medicinally in every system of medicine.