Introduction:
Moringa tree is also known as the ‘miracle tree’ and there is a good reason why. The leaves, fruit, sap, oil, roots, bark, seeds, pod and flowers of the tree have medicinal properties. The products from the tree have many uses. It is also known as the ‘drumstick tree’. It is found mostly in Asia, Africa, and South America.
The health benefits of moringa leaves.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Moringa leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 and Folate. They are also rich in magnesium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc.
Rich in Amino Acids
Moringa leaves are rich in amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. 18 types of amino acids are found in them and each of them makes an important contribution to our wellbeing.
Fight Inflammation
Moringa leaves are anti-inflammatory in nature due to the presence of isothiocyanates. They have niazimicin that is known to reign in the development of cancer cells.
Rich in Antioxidants
Moringa leaves have anti-oxidative properties and protect against the damaging effects of free radicals present in the environment. The damage caused by free radicals is responsible for many chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart problems and Alzheimer’s. Moringa leaves are rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene that act against free radicals.
They also have Quercetin which is an antioxidant that helps to lower blood pressure. Another antioxidant that is present in moringa leaves is Chlorogenic acid which helps to stabilize blood sugar levels post meals.
Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Moringa leaves are a perfect resource for that as they stabilize the blood sugar levels due to the presence of isothiocyanates.
Lowers Cholesterol
Apart from oats, flaxseeds, and almonds, moringa leaves are a dependable remedy against high cholesterol. Moringa leaves can lower those levels and protect against the risk of heart disease.
Protects the Liver
Those who have tuberculosis can benefit greatly from moringa leaves as they reduce the negative effects of anti-tubercular drugs. The leaves accelerate the repair of the liver cells. The leaves have a high concentration of polyphenols that protect against oxidative damage to the liver and may even reduce it.
Protects Against Arsenic Toxicity
In many parts of the world, arsenic contamination is a common problem. Arsenic has found its way in our systems through many food items, particularly rice. Long-term exposure to this element can lead to the development of cancer and heart disease. Research on lab animals has shown that moringa leaves to combat the effects of arsenic toxicity.
Good for the Stomach
Moringa leaves are beneficial against digestive disorders. Those who suffer from constipation, bloating, gas, gastritis and ulcerative colitis.
Improves bone health:
Moringa leaves are rich sources of calcium and phosphorus. Both of these elements are needed for good bone health. Moringa oleifera also fights against osteoporosis and keeps bone and teeth strong
An Antiseptic
Moringa leaves are antiseptic and fight off many bacterial infections. They are even beneficial towards wound healing and help to heal bruises, minor cuts, and burns quickly as they reduce the clotting time.
Improve Lactation
In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, moringa leaves were used to increase lactation in nursing mothers. Since they are a rich source of protein, important vitamins, and essential nutrients, consuming moringa leaves is very good for the health of the mother and the baby.
Helps in Weight Management
Moringa leaves increase fat burning in the body… They slim down the person without depleting energy reserves. This keeps the person feeling buoyant and nourished. They reduce cravings for food and boost metabolism. They also lower cholesterol.
Good for skin and hair
Due to an abundance of antioxidants and nutrients, moringa leaves improve the health and appearance of skin and hair. They add suppleness to the skin and shine to the hair. This is why moringa leaves are part of many cosmetics. They improve the skin tone and add a glow due to their purifying nature and therapeutic properties.
Good for Nervous System
Many nervous disorders have been known to show positive results against the use of moringa leaves. They support brain health and work as neuro-enhancers. The high concentration of vitamins E and C combat neural degeneration and help improve brain function. Those who have a migraine or suffer from recurring headaches must eat moringa leaves regularly. These leaves also work as mood balancers as they stabilize the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and nor-adrenaline which are important for memory, mood and for stimulus-response.
Good for Detoxification
Moringa leaves are natural cleansers and help to detoxify the system. This helps to keep the body and increases the immunity against various infections. They also increase the energy levels in the body.
Potential Downsides of Moringa leaves:
- Moringa and its leaves may not be for everyone. In large doses, the leaves, bark, roots and moringa fruit may have laxative properties.
- In pregnant women, the roots bark and extract of Moringa may cause uterine contractions.
- Similarly, breastfeeding women should avoid Moringa leaves since it is unknown whether any of the chemicals or substances present can pass through the milk to the child.
- In some cases, Moringa leaf powder has been found to contain higher than the recommended tolerable amounts of lead
- Lastly, it is recommended that people on blood thinners should also avoid Moringa unless you consult your doctor first.
Conclusion
Moringa leaves provide a powerful punch of nutrition and have an anti-inflammatory nature. Their anti-oxidative properties combined with their cellular-health protective properties make them a new ‘super-food’. They suppress the production of inflammatory enzymes and lower sugar levels. Make these a regular part of your diet to reap rich health benefits.
