What is the Karavellaka plant used for in Ayurveda? - #12198

I recently heard about the karavellaka plant from my grandmother, who swears by Ayurvedic remedies. She told me it’s often used for diabetes, but when I tried researching, I found very confusing information. Some sources say the karavellaka plant is just another name for bitter gourd (karela), while others say it’s a completely different plant. Now, I’m unsure whether I should try it or not. I’ve been dealing with high blood sugar for a while now, and I want to start incorporating natural solutions into my routine. My sugar levels are usually in the prediabetic range, and I don’t want to end up relying on medications too soon. That’s why I’m really curious about whether the karavellaka plant actually works for managing blood sugar. Has anyone here tried it for diabetes? If yes, how did you take it – as a juice, powder, or just raw? And how long does it take to see any results? Apart from diabetes, I also have mild digestion issues. Some people say that the karavellaka plant helps with gut health, but I also heard that it can be quite bitter. Wouldn’t that make acidity worse? I often experience bloating and occasional constipation, so if this plant helps with digestion, I’d be interested in trying it. But I’m also scared of making my acidity worse. Has anyone here used the karavellaka plant for digestion problems? One more thing that confuses me is which part of the karavellaka plant is actually used in Ayurveda. Some say the leaves have the most medicinal value, while others say the fruit is the real powerhouse. If I want to start using it, should I focus on the leaves, seeds, or fruit? Also, is it okay to consume daily, or does it have any side effects if taken in excess? Another issue is availability. I live in a city where finding fresh Ayurvedic herbs isn’t easy. Can I get the karavellaka plant in powdered or capsule form? If yes, is that as effective as using the fresh plant? Also, if I manage to get fresh karavellaka plant, what’s the best way to store it to maintain its medicinal properties? If anyone has firsthand experience with the karavellaka plant, I’d really appreciate it if you could share how it worked for you. Did it help with blood sugar? Any noticeable effects on digestion? Also, if there are any precautions to keep in mind, I’d love to know. Thanks in advance!