The moringa tree is renowned for its potent health benefits and has been utilized for centuries to treat a variety of health conditions and prevent common illnesses.
Moringa, often referred to as a miraculous plant, has been valued since ancient times. Every part of the moringa plant is used, including the flowers, leaves, seeds, and bark, due to its nutritional richness and numerous advantages.
Did you know that moringa contains seven times the vitamin C found in oranges? It boasts ten times the vitamin A of fresh carrots and seventeen times the calcium of organic milk. The moringa plant also has nine times the protein of yogurt, twenty-five times the potassium of bananas, and twenty-five times the iron of spinach.
Rich in beta-carotene, protein, vitamin C, calcium, amino acids, antioxidants, and potassium, moringa leaves are a nutritional powerhouse.
Moringa also enhances the shelf life of fatty foods thanks to its high content of phenolics, carotenoids, ascorbic acid, and flavonoids.
Also known as the drumstick tree or ben oil tree, moringa thrives in the sub-Himalayan areas of India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, and is also prevalent in some tropical countries. Nowadays, a variety of moringa products are available, including leaf powder, extracts, capsules, and tea enriched with moringa. Unsure how to use it? Incorporate moringa leaf powder into your daily smoothie, or enjoy a cup of moringa tea.
This article presents some of the most significant benefits of the moringa plant.
Sexual Health in Men
Moringa acts as a natural aphrodisiac and has been utilized by traditional medicine experts to enhance sexual function. Laboratory rats administered with moringa seed extract demonstrated increased sexual activity and improved erectile function.
The plant has been remarkable in enhancing fertility and reproductive functions in adult male rats. It serves as an effective treatment for sexual disorders, with studies indicating that moringa has improved sexual function in male rats under stress.
Diabetes
Individuals with diabetes often have to avoid sugary beverages. However, moringa tea is a superb alternative that can also aid in regulating blood sugar levels. While moringa's impact on diabetes may not be vast, it has been shown to have significant benefits. Studies indicate that individuals with diabetes experienced a reduction of 28.15 mg/dl in blood sugar levels within two hours of consuming moringa tea. Given its potential benefits, moringa is certainly worth considering for inclusion in the daily regimen of those managing diabetes.
Anticancer
Moringa leaf extract is rich in phenolics, flavonoids, and ascorbic acid, offering a potent antioxidant boost. Essentially, moringa helps to minimize free radical damage. Research indicates that moringa leaf extract can prevent oxidative damage to DNA, which may contribute to increased energy levels and slower aging. Additionally, it may reduce the risk of cancer.
Smoother skin and a more even complexion
Moringa is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties. It is incorporated into numerous skincare products due to its ability to combat bacterial and fungal infections. Moringa also revitalizes and rejuvenates the skin.
Vitamin B serves as a humectant, attracting water to the skin when used topically.
Motherhood
A kilogram of moringa leaves can fulfill the daily zinc requirement. An individual needs approximately 25.5-31.03mg of zinc daily, which is vital for sperm cell growth and the synthesis of DNA and RNA. In the Philippines, moringa is highly regarded as an ideal supplement for pregnant and nursing mothers, earning the nickname "the mothers' best friend." Consuming about six spoons of moringa leaf powder provides sufficient iron and calcium for pregnant women, while phytosterols in moringa enhance estrogen production, stimulating the mammary glands.
For vegetarians, moringa is an excellent source of 22 amino acids, including the 10 essential ones that the body cannot produce, making it a significant protein source.
In terms of water purification, the aqueous extract from moringa seeds is an effective agent. It is widely used in African and South Asian countries to transform muddy water into potable water. Experts claim that moringa can remove 99.9 percent of bacteria within 1-2 hours, a remarkable discovery for developing nations.
Additionally, moringa contributes to brain health.
Moringa leaf extract is beneficial for brain health. It is rich in vitamins C and E, which help the body combat oxidative stress, a common factor in Alzheimer's disease.
Mild Laxative
Moringa leaf extract can alleviate bowel movement issues. It eases constipation and reduces the time it takes to defecate. Research on mice indicates that the extract increases fecal pellet count, thus adding bulk. However, caution is advised.
Large doses of moringa leaf extract may result in prolonged bathroom visits.
Liver Health
The liver is crucial for purifying blood and metabolizing fats. To support its function and mitigate damage, incorporating moringa into your diet is beneficial.
In studies, moringa seed extract was administered to rats with liver fibrosis, revealing its potential to curb fibrosis spread in liver tissues through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Further research demonstrated that moringa seed oil could normalize liver enzymes in rats with hepatitis after daily administration for 21 days.
Proceed with caution.
Moringa is advantageous, yet it must be consumed cautiously. Below are some common side effects of the moringa plant:
Excessive consumption of moringa can disrupt digestion as it acts as a mild laxative.
Moringa serves as an abortifacient. It enhances fertility in male rats, but in females, it can induce abortion and has contraceptive effects.
Do not mix it with anticoagulants and always consult your physician before incorporating moringa into your regimen.
If you are on diabetes medication, avoid moringa since it can further reduce your blood sugar levels.
Since moringa can also decrease blood pressure, caution is advised for those on hypertension drugs.
To ensure optimal health, consume moringa in small quantities. Moderation is crucial.
