The Mighty Moringa: Unveiling the Power and Health Benefits of Nature’s Superfood

Moringa

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in natural superfoods that offer a plethora of health benefits. One such superfood that has gained significant attention is Moringa oleifera, often referred to as the “miracle tree” or “tree of life.” Originating from the Indian subcontinent, Moringa has been used for centuries due to its incredible nutritional value and medicinal properties. There are many different names that it goes by… the drumstick tree, horseradish tree and the ben oil tree. One thing I found interesting is that almost all parts of the tree are eaten or used as ingredients in herbal medicines. In this blog, we will explore the mighty Moringa, diving into its origins, nutritional composition, health benefits, and various ways to incorporate it into our daily lives.

Discovering the Origins of Moringa:

Moringa oleifera is native to the foothills of the Himalayas, primarily found in countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. This tree has been revered in traditional medicine systems, such as Ayurveda, for its therapeutic properties. Today, Moringa is cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions across the globe.

Even though moringa was originally used in traditional herbal medicines, people are starting to use it more as a supplement.  I wanted to find out why.

Nutritional Powerhouse:

When it comes to nutrition, Moringa truly stands out. Its leaves, pods, seeds, and flowers are packed with an impressive array of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The leaves, in particular, are a nutritional powerhouse, boasting high levels of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, iron, and potassium. Moringa also contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source, which is rare in the plant kingdom.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), one 10-gram (g) serving of moringa powder offers 150 milligrams (mg) of calcium (15 percent of the daily value, or DV), 2 mg of iron (11.11 percent DV), and 160 mg of potassium (3.4 percent DV). “There’s some proteinin there too, which is exciting because generally leaves are mostly carbohydrates,” Hultin says. (One 10-g serving of moringa powder offers 3 g of protein.)

The list of benefits found in moringa is amazing! And there are several different ways you can supplement with this herb. Some people drink it as a tea. I am not a big tea drinker but I have used it this way and it has a slightly earthy but very mild flavor – a lot like green tea. I, personally, like to take the capsule form of moringa. Nonetheless, however you take it, there are quite a few science-based health benefits of moringa. It has actually been around for thousands of years mainly in Indian medicine.

Rich in Antioxidants:

Moringa is abundant in antioxidants, including quercetin, kaempferol, and beta-carotene. These powerful compounds help neutralize harmful free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.

This is one of the main reasons that I started to supplement with moringa. There are four main components in moringa that amp up the antioxidant effect:

These alone are great reasons to supplement with moringa. But another reason I decided to add it to my supplements list is because diabetes runs in my family. Besides diet, I wanted to help supplement to help keep my blood sugars in check. There have been several studies done that show it may help lower blood sugar levels. ( 5 ). This makes it beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition. The presence of compounds like isothiocyanates and chlorogenic acid contributes to its blood sugar-lowering effects.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties:

The presence of isothiocyanates, flavonoids, and phenolic acids in Moringa contributes to its potent anti-inflammatory properties. Regular consumption of Moringa may help alleviate inflammation.

Again, I know I have said this repeatedly but inflammation! Inflammation can wreak havoc on your body. It can cause heart problems and cancer and a whole host of other problems. “The anti-inflammatory effect of moringa is the big news because we know that out-of-control inflammation is the hallmark of most kinds of diseases,” Foroutan says. According to an article published in November 2012 in the journal EMBO Reports, inflammation has been linked with a wide range of chronic diseases, from different types of cancer to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to heart disease.

Whether you have any of these health conditions in your family or not, it is (in my opinion) to strive to keep inflammation in check. Well, scientists have found that moringa has anti-inflammatory compounds but these are very limited studies (6). I figured with all of the other benefits, it couldn’t hurt to give it a try.

Boosting Immunity:

The immune-boosting effects of Moringa are attributed to its high vitamin C content, along with other immune-supporting nutrients like zinc and iron. Incorporating Moringa into your diet can help strengthen the immune system, ward off infections, and promote overall wellness.

Enhancing Digestive Health:

Moringa possesses natural detoxifying properties, aiding in the elimination of toxins from the body. It also contains fiber, which supports healthy digestion, relieves constipation, and maintains a healthy gut microbiome.

Ways to Incorporate Moringa into Your Diet:

a. Moringa Powder: Moringa leaves are often dried and ground into a fine powder, which can be added to smoothies, juices, yogurts, or sprinkled over salads and cooked dishes.

b. Moringa Tea: Steeping dried Moringa leaves in hot water creates a nourishing and caffeine-free herbal tea. It can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with other herbs and flavors for added variety.

c. Moringa Oil: Extracted from Moringa seeds, the oil is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats. It is commonly used for culinary purposes, salad dressings, or as a nourishing oil for the skin and hair.

d. Moringa Capsules or Extracts: For those seeking a convenient option, Moringa is available in the form of capsules or liquid extracts. These provide a concentrated dose of Moringa’s nutrients and can be easily incorporated into a daily supplement routine.

I found it easier to order mine online since I like taking the capsule form. My wife and daughter like drinking Moringa tea. This is easier to find in grocery stores like Publix and Kroger or even Walmart. Both forms are beneficial. I just happen to not be that big of a tea drinker. Hmmm… maybe I should since teas have benefits of their own. Maybe if you mix it with green tea you can boost the antioxidants since both are powerhouses for that very thing. But, I digress. I think the most important thing is to be sure use what is best for you. Tea… capsule… it is up to you.

So far, I have liked the effects on my body since I added this. I take this supplement in the morning and I feel more energized throughout the day. I also feel more focused on the tasks I have to accomplish each day. You can try it for yourself and see if you feel the same effects. I would love to hear from you.

However before I move one, there is one word of caution. Moringa root contains spirochin, a potentially toxic alkaloid that could cause neurological issues, so you should only purchase powder from a very reputable source. This goes for any supplement you purchase. Caveat emptor!