Bitter Melon

AccordFRUITS, VEGETABLES & NUTSbitter · green · fresh
HeartPyramid
3/5Strength
—Tenacity
3Origins

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Specimen
Bitter Melon perfume ingredient
Heart
Momordica charantia
Fantasy/Concept
Definition

Sharply bitter, green, vegetal. The anti-fruit — all astringency and no sweetness.

GREEN BITTER VEGETAL EARTHY
BITTER GOURD BALSAM PEAR
Type
Accord
Olfactive family
Fruity
Subfamily
Green fruits
Cluster
Melon-like watery fruits
Source
fruit
Chemical class
complex natural
Instruments
Pyramid
TTop
HHeart
BBase
3/5Strength
Medium
odour strength
Producing countries
China India Southeast Asia

Scent

Bitter melon has a distinct scent that is green, crisp, and slightly bitter. The initial impression is like freshly cut cucumber with a hint of earthy undertones. As it unfolds it reveals a subtle herbaceous quality, like fresh green peppers or leafy greens, adding brightness to a composition.

Scent Evolution

This profile can contrast with sweeter or more floral notes. The bitterness is pronounced but not overwhelming.

Signature Accords

Bitter melon has a refreshing, bracing, green scent, used as either a focal point or a supporting element.

The Full Story

Bitter melon, scientifically known as Momordica charantia, is a tropical and subtropical vine belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. This fruit, also called bitter gourd or balsam pear, has a long history in various culinary traditions, particularly Asian cuisine. It originates from the Indian subcontinent, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years for culinary and medicinal use.

Origin and Production

In traditional medicine, bitter melon has been valued for its potential health benefits, including its ability to regulate blood sugarlevels and a nutritional profile that includes vitamins A and C, iron, and potassium. The fruit is harvested while still green and firm, and features in stir-fries, soups, and salads. Its intense bitterness is an acquired taste but is valued in many cultures.

Chemistry and Scent Profile

In perfumery, bitter melon is uncommon. Its crisp, green, slightly herbaceous scent adds freshness and can balance sweeter notes.

Role in Perfumery

Bitter melon stands out among botanical fragrance ingredients for its unusual profile.

Did You Know?

Bitter melon is used in cooking and is also valued in traditional medicine for potential benefits such as regulating blood sugar.

Did You Know?

Bitter melon is used in cooking and is also valued in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits, such as regulating blood sugar.

Extraction & Chemistry

Extraction method

Typically used in its natural fruit form or as an essential oil extracted from the fruit

Formula
N/A - natural fruit
CAS
93333-80-3
Botanical
Momordica charantia
Appearance
Green warty oblong fruit; seed oil is a pale yellow liquid
Odour strength
Medium
Synonyms
BITTER GOURD BALSAM PEAR
IFRA status
No restriction

No known restrictions

Physical properties
Note
Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) seed oil. Key compound: momordicin. Oil specific gravity ~0.920-0.940 @ 25 °C (est).

In Perfumery

In perfumery, bitter melon is often utilized as a heart note, giving refreshing and slightly bitter element that can complement sweeter or floral fragrances. It works with citrus notes, green accords, and even spicy elements that captures the essence of nature. The bitterness of bitter melon can enhance the freshness of a composition, making it particularly appealing in modern, clean fragrances designed for a contemporary audience. Perfumers appreciate the versatility of bitter melon, using it to add a layer of complexity and intrigue to their creations. Its profile allows for innovative interpretations, encouraging the exploration of new scent combinations and experiences. As the demand for particular and natural ingredients grows, bitter melon may find a more prominent place in the fragrance world, inspiring new olfactory journeys.

Role in the formula
01modifier
02blender
03signature note
Available as
synthetic accord fantasy note

See Also

6 notes