Moringa Oleifera is a plant that is often called the drumstick tree, miracle tree, the ben oil tree or the horseradish tree. It has been praised for its health benefits for thousands of years. Owing to its high concentrations of polyphenol in its leaves and flowers, moringa protect the liver against oxidation, toxicity and damage.
The plant which is native to India but grows in Asia, Africa and South America is rich in healthy antioxidants and bioactive plants compounds. It contains a variety of proteins, vitamins and minerals.
Its leaf is best known as an excellent source of nutrition and natural energy booster. It also helps in lowering blood pressure and promote a good sleeping condition.
Moringa contains compounds such as
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B1 (thiamine)
- Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
- Vitamin B3 (niacin), B-6
- Folate and ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
- Calcium
- Potassium
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Phosphorus
- Zinc
Benefits of moringa ranges from health and beauty to helping prevent and cure diseases. They include:
It is a wound healing agent
Extract of moringa has been shown to help wounds close as well as reduce the appearance of scars.
It makes the bones healthier
Moringa contains calcium and phosphorous, which help keep bones healthy and strong. It also contain anti-inflammatory properties that helps to treat conditions such as arthritis and may heal damaged bones.
Research has shown that Moringa has anti-cancer properties
Moringa extracts contain properties that might help prevent cancer developing. It also contains niazimicin, which is a compound that suppresses the development of cancer cells.
Protecting and nourishing skin and hair
Moringa seed oil is beneficial for protecting hair against free radicals and keeps it clean and healthy. It also contains protein, which means it is helpful in protecting skin cells from damage. In addition, it has hydrating and detoxifying elements, which boost the skin and hair and curing skin infections and sores.
Treats Edema
Edema is a painful condition where fluid builds up in specific tissues in the body. The anti-inflammatory properties of moringa may be effective in preventing edema from developing.
Treating diabetes
Juice from the leaves is believed to have a stabilizing effect on blood pressure and is used to treat anxiety. It is believed to control glucose levels and regulating oxidative stress in diabetic patients.
Treating mood disorders
Moringa is thought to be helpful in treating depression, anxiety, and fatigue.
Treating asthma
Moringa may help reduce the severity of some asthma attacks and protect against bronchial constrictions. It has also been shown to assist with better lung function and breathing overall.
Improving eye health
Moringa contains eyesight-improving properties thanks to its high antioxidant levels which may stop the dilation of retinal vessels, prevent the thickening of capillary membranes, and inhibit retinal dysfunction.
It aids weight loss.
Evidence has shown that moringa extract can be effective in reducing and controlling weight gain in mice. Its high vitamin B content helps with smooth and efficient digestion and can assist the body when converting food into energy, as opposed to storing it as fat.
Moringa may possess anti-fertility qualities and is therefore not recommended for pregnant women.There have been very few side effects reported. Therefore, people should always read the label on the extract and follow dosage instructions.