Bitter melon extract inhibits proliferation of Trypanosoma brucei bloodstream forms in vitro

► Bitter melon extract displays trypanocidal activity. ► Large molecular weight fraction (>3 kDa) causes rapid lysis of trypanosomes. ► Low molecular weight fraction (<3 kDa) induces arrest of parasites in the G2-M phase. ► Bitter melon extract could be a source for novel anti-sleeping sickness drugs.