Balsam apple is a plant that is known for its medicinal properties and has been used for centuries to treat various ailments. It is also known by many other names such as bitter gourd, bitter melon, and Momordica charantia. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of balsam apple, its origins, and its associations.
Definitions
Balsam apple is a plant species that belongs to the family Cucurbitaceae. It is a tropical vine that grows in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. The plant produces fruit that is oblong and has a warty exterior. The fruit is green when unripe and turns yellow or orange when it is ripe. The fruit is also known for its bitter taste.
Origin
Balsam apple is believed to have originated in India and was introduced to other parts of the world by traders and travelers. It is now grown in many tropical regions around the world, including Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, balsam apple is defined as “a tropical vine (Momordica charantia) of the gourd family, having yellow flowers and an oblong fruit with a warty exterior that when ripe splits into many seeds and has a bitter taste.”
The Oxford English Dictionary defines balsam apple as “a tropical vine of the gourd family, with oblong fruit that splits into many seeds and has a bitter taste.”
Associations
Balsam apple is known for its many medicinal properties and has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including diabetes, malaria, and gastrointestinal disorders. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
In some cultures, balsam apple is also used as a food ingredient and is known for its bitter taste. It is often used in soups, stews, and curries.
Synonyms
Balsam apple is also known by many other names, including bitter gourd, bitter melon, and karela.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of balsam apple, but it is often compared to other fruits and vegetables that have a sweet taste.
The same root words
Balsam apple is derived from the Latin word Momordica, which means “to bite” or “to nibble.” The word charantia is derived from the Greek word kharantion, which means “a medicinal herb.”
Example Sentences
- The bitter taste of balsam apple is an acquired taste.
- Balsam apple is often used in traditional medicine to treat diabetes.
- The fruit of the balsam apple is oblong and has a warty exterior.
- Balsam apple is a tropical vine that grows in many parts of the world.
- Some people use balsam apple as a food ingredient because of its bitter taste.