Bittermelon - Goya
A member of the melon family, goya was probably brought to Okinawa from ancient China during one of the many trade exchanges between the Ryukyu Kingdom (ancient name for Okinawa) and the Ming and Manchu dynasties. It is widely available in North America in Chinese markets or Asian food stores, where it's referred to as Chin-li-chih, Goo-fa or Ku Gua.
The bitter taste of goya is due to the presence of curcurbitacins from the triterpine family, one of the phytochemicals that is thought to play a role in cancer prevention. Goya juice may also lower a diabetic's need for large doses of insulin -- an effect likened to Avandia and some of the other new "insulin sensitizers" on the market. Several well-conducted clinical trials support goya's ability to lower blood sugar in diabetics due to special proteins found in the goya plant. (So check with your doctor before drinking goya in liquid form because you may experience a drop in blood sugar.) Test tube studies have shown beneficial activity against the AIDS virus. A protein found in goya seeds was also found to inhibit the growth of the herpes and polio viruses. An extract of the roots and leaves has been shown to inhibit the growth of E. Coli, one of the most common causes of urinary tract infections in women.
Okinawans believe that goya helps keep their skin and bones young -- which might be related to its antioxidant content, including vitamin C, and its ability to help synthesize collagen, an essential protein for bone and connective tissue health. A favorite goya recipe is the delicious goya champuru (goya stir-fry) where eggs, firm tofu, olive or canola oil, sea salt, pepper and goya are combined to make a tasty and healthy dish. It's extremely easy to prepare and is a great fast meal, full of vitamin C, flavonoids and other antioxidant compounds. |
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