Moringa (Moringa oleifera) is “native to parts of Africa and Asia and is the sole genus in the flowering plant family Moringaceae. It contains 13 species from the tropical and subtropical climates that range in size from tiny herbs to massive trees” (Wikipedia). But what are the moringa health benefits? And why did it become the newest superfood?
Moringa is also called the “miracle tree” or the drumstick tree. It is considered a highly valued and resourceful plant. You maybe didn’t know that it is also known as Horseradish tree and Ben oil tree. I didn’t. I, actually, didn’t hear about moringa at all until recently.
It is said that the benefits of this miracle tree were only discovered recently. Giving the fact that Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians found some value in moringa, today, many organizations advise the use of moringa because it has properties that help fight against malnutrition. They encourage this due to the fact that moringa grows and spreads really fast.
Moringa is also valued and appreciated in the Ayurvedic therapy, where therapists considered it to be very important due to its antidepressive and antiviral properties. But let’s check out which are its famous health benefits!
The Moringa Health Benefits
Nutritional value
The miracle plant-tree contains the following:
- Essential amino acids
- Vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B6, C)
- Minerals (calcium iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc)
- Low amount of fats
Given the fact that it contains a wide range of healthy components and phytonutrients, it’s no wonder it is considered a miracle in medicine. As you will surely discover, the mix of all these amino acids, vitamins and minerals will give you a powerful boost if you’re feeling down and not only just then.
Because it contains a lot of antioxidants, which are known for acting against free radicals that cause oxidative stress and other diseases, moringa may help you moderate the blood sugar level and lower the blood pressure. Studies confirm it.
You know you suffer from an infection or injury when inflammation is the body’s response. Any inflammation should be taken care of. For example, turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. It is considered that moringa also has anti-inflammatory properties, but further research is needed.
We all know that it’s bad when our cholesterol level is high. Studies on animals and humans show that this plant has similar healthy effects with that of almonds, oats and flaxseed. The moringa health benefits include antibacterial, antispasmodic, antifungal, diuretic, antiulcer properties, liver and eye protection, wounds and herpes healing. It prevents cancer due to its high content of phytonutrients. It also prevents bronchitis, neurodegenerative disease, diabetes.
#1 Moringa Leaves
- Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect for wounds, injuries and insect bites
- Treat diarrhea and gastric ulcer
- Treat anemia, fever, bronchitis
- Releave headaches if rubbed against the temple
- Stop bleeding if applied on cuts
#2 Moringa Flowers
- Treat urinary infections
- Remedy for colds under the form of tea
#3 Moringa Seeds
- Treat rheumatism, arthritis and cramps
- Remedy for colds under the form of tea
#4 Moringa Pods
- Treat liver and spleen problems, but also joint pains
- Treat diarrhea and malnutrition
#5 Moringa Root And Bark
- Have more concentrated properties and health benefits than all of the above
- Relieve lower back pains
- Treat cardiac and circulatory problems, rheumatism and arthritis
Caution
As studies show, it is NOT recommended to ingest moringa during pregnancy, because it has an abortive effect. Although the benefits are multiple and it is a nutritious plant, moringa should be used only after discussing with a medical specialist. As any other plants which need to be further tested and studied for their effects. In theory, everything seems to be great. In practice, however, further research is required.
As far as my reading goes, moringa is considered to have an impressive range of medicinal uses, starting with its leaves, flowers, pods, seeds, root and bark. Every part of this miracle plant-tree has different properties and different uses. So, there’s nothing left for me to do, then to continue reading about this nature miracle and trying to understand its health benefits.
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Feature image: pixabay.com
