Health benefits of Blueberries
June 26, 2020Virbhadrasana – Benefits | contradictions
June 29, 2020
Moringa tree is also known as the miracle tree is now gaining a lot more popularity in the western world being sold as a powder supplement.
So, what is the Moringa tree, and why it is becoming so popular??
Moringa oleifera is a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree of the family Moringaceae, native to the Indian subcontinent. Common names include moringa, drumstick tree (from the long, slender, triangular seed-pods), horseradish tree (from the taste of the roots, which resembles horseradish), and ben oil tree or benzolive tree (from the oil which is derived from the seeds).
Moringa has been used for centuries due to its medicinal properties and health benefits. It also has antifungal, antiviral, antidepressant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Moringa has medicinal properties and contains many healthful compounds.
What is in the moringa?
MORINGA powder is made from naturally-dried moringa leaves. It has a delicious spinachy green flavor, perfect for boosting curries, stews, casseroles, soups, salads, green smoothies, and more. Moringa is:
- 25% plant protein including all 9 essential amino acids
- 24% fibre
- A rich source of iron, vitamin K & E
- A source of vitamin A & calcium
- High in antioxidants
As Moringa Powder is a natural source of these nutrients, it is highly bioavailable, so our bodies can absorb the benefits more easily than by taking synthetic supplements.
Moringa has been used for centuries due to its medicinal properties and health benefits. It also has antifungal, antiviral, antidepressant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
What are the benefits?
Moringa is believed to have many benefits and its uses range from health and beauty to helping prevent and cure diseases. The benefits of moringa include:
1. Protecting and nourishing skin and hair
Moringa seed oil is beneficial for protecting hair against free radicals and keeps it clean and healthy.
It is jam-packed with skin-loving vitamins including:
Vitamin A: 18.9% of NRV
Vitamin E: 16.9% of NRV
Moringa also contains protein, which means it is helpful in protecting skin cells from damage. It also contains hydrating and detoxifying elements, which also boost the skin and hair.
Vitamin A is essential for healthy, radiant skin and vitamin E protects cells from oxidative stress helping fight the signs of aging.
Moringa also has one of the highest antioxidant contents of any food. With an ORAC value of 157,000, it has 6x the antioxidants of goji berries and comparable levels to the antioxidant powerhouse matcha.
It can be successful in curing skin infections and sores.
2. Treating edema
The anti-inflammatory properties of moringa may be effective in preventing edema from developing. Edema is a condition where fluid builds up in specific tissues in the body.
3. Immunity
One of the best moringa benefits is its super immune-boosting powers. Maintaining a healthy immune system is essential for helping our bodies stave off infections and illnesses. Moringa Oleifera leaves are an extremely rich source of:
Iron: 32.2% of NRV
Vitamin A: 18.9% of NRV
Both of which are essential for the normal function of the immune system.
It is important to consume the Moringa plants either in a powdered form or in food especially during the spring season.
4. Prevent cancer
Moringa extracts contain properties that might help prevent cancer developing. Moringa leaves have been shown to have beneficial properties in the fight against both breast and colon cancer cells and research is ongoing. It also contains niazimicin, which is a compound that suppresses the development of cancer cells.
5. Treating stomach problems
Moringa extracts might help treat some stomach disorders, such as constipation, gastritis, and ulcerative colitis.
Moringa powder is a rich source of calcium (24.7% NRV) which contributes to the normal function of digestive enzymes.
It also contains 24% fibre which can help support a healthy digestive system and bowel regularity. Fibre can also be helpful for weight management as it helps you feel fuller for longer and supports a healthy metabolism.
The antibiotic and antibacterial properties of moringa may help inhibit the growth of various pathogens, and its high vitamin B content helps with digestion.
6. Fighting against bacterial diseases
Due to its antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties, moringa extracts might combat infections caused by Salmonella, Rhizopus, and E. coli.
7. Making bones healthier
Moringa oleifera leaves are a rich source of vitamin K (158.7% NRV), protein (25%), and calcium (24.7% NRV) all of which help keep bones healthy and strong. Along with its anti-inflammatory properties moringa extract might help to treat conditions such as arthritis and may also heal damaged bones.
8. Treating mood disorders
Moringa is thought to be helpful in treating depression, anxiety, and fatigue. Moringa contains a significant amount of protein, and is packed with tryptophan, which helps the body to produce the relaxation hormone called serotonin.
9. Protecting the cardiovascular system
The powerful antioxidants found in Moringa extract might help prevent cardiac damage and has also been shown to maintain a healthy heart.
10. Treating diabetes
Typically used in traditional medicines, recent scientific studies have confirmed that moringa is in fact a successful way to treat diabetes, and is proven to decrease blood glucose level.
Moringa helps to reduce the amount of glucose in the blood, as well as sugar and protein in the urine. This improved the hemoglobin levels and overall protein content in those tested.
11. 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.
12. Reducing high blood pressure
Moringa contains isothiocyanate and niaziminin, compounds that help to stop arteries from thickening, which can cause blood pressure to rise.
13. Improving vision
Moringa is a source of vitamin A (18.9% NRV per serving) which contributes to normal vision. Moringa may stop the dilation of retinal vessels, prevent the thickening of capillary membranes, and inhibit retinal dysfunction.
14. Prevent tiredness and fatigue.
A single serving of Moringa Powder (10g or 2-3 teaspoons) provides:
Iron: 32.2% of your daily requirement (NRV)
Vitamin A: 18.9% of NRV
Iron is essential for the reduction of tiredness and fatigue in the body, and vitamin A supports the metabolism of iron ensuring a greater uptake. Adding moringa to your daily routine is an effective, natural way to prevent tiredness and fatigue.
The rich iron content of moringa powder also makes it ideal for vegan, vegetarians, and those suffering from anemia.
15. Treat Malnutrition
A condition caused by a poor diet or the body’s inability to absorb nutrients. Early research shows that adding moringa powder to food for 2 months helps improve weight in malnourished children.
16. Improves menopausal symptoms
Symptoms of the menopause. Early research shows that adding fresh moringa leaves to food for 3 months improves menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and sleeping problems in healthy, postmenopausal women.
Side effects
Although Moringa may have very few reported side effects, a healthcare professional should be consulted before it is taken.
Anyone considering using moringa is advised to discuss it with a doctor first.
Studies have reported no adverse effects in people who consumed 50 grams of leaf powder from the plant as a single dose or 7 grams daily for 90 days.
People should always read the label on the extract and follow dosage instructions.
Those who are taking medications for blood pressure or blood sugar control should speak with their healthcare provider before taking these supplements, as the plant may affect how these medications work.
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