The Moringa oleifera tree is a common sight in the Indian subcontinent, including in Sri Lanka. Typically, there are a few trees growing in back gardens, including our neighbour’s! With slender branches and delicate leaves, it is rather unassuming and doesn’t look like the “miracle tree” it is commonly referred to. But did you know about the health benefits of Moringa? In fact, it is a nutritional powerhouse, ecological asset and multi-purpose plant. This explains what makes Moringa special and why it is considered a superfood that’s appearing in various health supplements.

 

In an article in the Los Angeles Times, the tree was described as follows: “Scientifically speaking, Moringa sounds like magic. It can rebuild weak bones, enrich anaemic blood and enable a malnourished mother to nurse her starving baby. Doctors use it to treat diabetes in West Africa and high blood pressure in India… And it’s not only good for you, it’s delicious.” Let’s take a closer look at what makes Moringa special and how it can benefit you.

 

Nutritional value of Moringa

Moringa has been used for generations for natural nutrition and medicinal purposes in Asia and Africa. In traditional healing like Ayurveda, its strengthening and protective abilities are used to treat a range of conditions related to infections and immunity as well as heart, stomach and blood disorders. In particular for skin, Moringa has been used in folk medicine for its restorative and rejuvenating properties as well as treating sores and wounds.

 

The leaves contain more than 90 nutritional chemical compounds. Moreover, it has 19 amino acids in total, including all nine essential amino acids, which makes Moringa a complete plant protein. Plant-based protein is helpful to heal and repair muscle and tissues, including to support healthy skin. The dietary fibre in Moringa acts as a prebiotic and supports gut health.

 

The leaves are an excellent source of skin-loving vitamins and minerals including calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, B, C and E. In fact, research studies have found Moringa leaves to have four times the vitamin A of carrots, 3 times the potassium of bananas, four times the calcium of milk, and seven times the vitamin C of oranges. It also contains iron and is often used as a natural health supplement to treat anaemia (iron deficiency).

 

Health benefits of Moringa

Eating a balanced diet including antioxidant-rich and anti-inflammatory foods like Moringa can support a healthy lifestyle. How antioxidants work is they have the ability to neutralise harmful molecules known as free radicals in the body. Free radicals and inflammation as a result of external stresses have been linked to cell damage and several chronic diseases including heart disease, Alzheimer’s, diabetes and certain cancers.

 

The chemical constituents in Moringa, namely phenols and flavonoids, have antimicrobial and antifungal properties. As a result of its high nutritional value and health benefits, Moringa is incorporated in dietary supplements, even in malnutrition relief efforts in developing countries.

 

In Asian cultures, the leaves are included in the diet of new mothers to boost breast milk production. Trial research has shown a significant increase in breast milk volume and an improvement in the baby’s weight gain with daily consumption of Moringa. Being nutrient-dense, it also serves to support lactating moms by replenishing essential protein, vitamins and minerals. It is important to consume premium quality, independently tested, organic Moringa as found in our GLOWING GREENS dietary supplement.

 

Different parts of the tree are harnessed in the beauty industry. For example, the nutrient-rich antiseptic oil extracted from the seed is used in skincare and hair care products.

 

Environmental asset

Moringa trees are a good friend to the environment. They are hardy, growing quickly and perfectly well in hot dry conditions, making them valuable to drought-prone areas adversely affected by climate change. Not requiring intensive labour, it can be sustainably-farmed to provide livelihoods to small-scale farmers. In addition, they are able to sequester high levels of carbon dioxide and improve soil quality. According to World Agroforestry: “The ability of the tree to mitigate the effects of climate change is also impressive. Research has shown that the rate of absorption of carbon dioxide by the Moringa tree is 20 times higher than that of general vegetation.”

 

Furthermore, Moringa seeds can be used as a first step in water purification. Their coagulating ability means they trap organic matter and bacteria suspended in water. This is more environmentally-friendly than using a chemical agent, especially in natural water bodies to improve water quality. The nutritious seeds are also used in animal feed and fertiliser, showcasing Moringa’s wider benefits.

 

“Moringa shows great promise as a tool to help overcome some of the most severe problems in the developing world – malnutrition, deforestation, impure water and poverty. The tree does best in the dry regions where these problems are worst,” explained former United Nations Ambassador Andrew Young.

 

GLOWING GREENS dietary supplement

Moringa leaves are described as similar to matcha in taste. It is earthy and herbaceous, and although slightly bitter, it is mild. The flavour profile is versatile and lends itself to both sweet and savoury drinks and dishes.

 

As described, there are a variety of health benefits of Moringa. It is one of five organic plant ingredients in our GLOWING GREENS dietary supplement for healthy skin. The harmonious and refreshing blend of Moringa, Peppermint, Green Tea, Curry Leaf and Black Pepper aims to support skin health. Taken daily, this Ayurvedic powder can help to to enhance overall metabolic function, skin hydration, skin elasticity and detoxification. GLOWING GREENS skin supplement can be included in your daily diet by adding into smoothies, soups and pasta.

 

Experience the benefits of certified organic Moringa for skin health in BOTANISTRY’s GLOWING GREENS natural supplement powder.