Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia), commonly known as Korola in Bangladesh, is a popular and widely cultivated vegetable known for its distinct bitter taste and high medicinal value. It is grown extensively in tropical and subtropical regions, including across Bangladesh.
Bitter gourd is cultivated year-round in various parts of Bangladesh, especially in districts like Jessore, Bogura, Dinajpur, and Cumilla. Farmers prefer it due to its high market demand, short growing season (60–75 days), and relatively low production cost.
This vegetable is rich in vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants, and is widely used in traditional and herbal medicine for managing diabetes, boosting immunity, and improving digestion. In Bangladeshi cuisine, bitter gourd is typically fried, cooked with lentils, or used in curries.
Bitter gourd farming contributes to the rural economy, especially for smallholder farmers, and has export potential due to growing demand in international markets.
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Local Name: Korola (করলা)
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Botanical Name: Momordica charantia
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Growing Season: Throughout the year, mostly summer
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Regions Grown: Jessore, Bogura, Dinajpur, Cumilla, etc.
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Uses: Culinary (curries, fried dishes), medicinal (diabetes, digestion)
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Nutritional Value: High in vitamins A, C, and antioxidants
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Economic Importance: Source of income for rural farmers and exportable crop
