Moringa

Moringa

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/ss/slideshow-truth-moringa

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9916933/

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-benefits-of-moringa-oleifera

Moringa oleifera, often called the "Miracle Tree" or "Tree of Life" has earned global recognition for its exceptional nutritional profile and medicinal properties.

Per 100g fresh leaves:

  • Protein: 27.1g (more than eggs)

  • Vitamin A: 18.9mg (10x more than carrots)

  • Vitamin C: 200mg (7x more than oranges)

  • Calcium: 2,003mg (17x more than milk)

    Potassium: 1,324mg (3x more than bananas) Iron: 28.2mg (25x more than spinach)

Moringa oleifera is an Indian tree that has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years.

Extensive research conducted in India, Nigeria, Brazil, and China during 2019–2022 has created a valuable resource about Moringa.

To date, studies show that Moringa oleifera:

  • may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects; Contains flavonoids, antioxidants - quercetin, kaempferol, beta-carotene, vitamin C and E and has neuroprotective effects

  • protects against oxidative stress in brain tissue

  • Supports immune system - increases immunoglobulin production, enhances T-cell activity and improves natural killer cell function

  • Leading to modest reductions in blood sugar

  • Lowers bad cholesterol (LDL)

  • Increases good cholesterol (HDL)

  • Reduces blood pressure and protects against arsenic toxicity.

  • Demonstrates anti-cancer properties

Essential Amino Acids

  • Contains all 9 essential amino acids

  • Particularly rich in methionine and cysteine

Consumption Methods

Almost all parts of the tree are eaten or used as ingredients in traditional herbal medicines.

  • Fresh leaves in salads

  • Cooked leaves in soups and stews

  • Tea made from dried leaves

  • Seed oil for cooking and skin care

  • Dried powder - most common form

    Recommended Daily Intake

  • Fresh leaves: 1-2 cups

  • Powder: 1-2 teaspoons

  • Tea: 2-3 cups

  • Oil: 1-2 tablespoons

Safety and Considerations

  • May interact with certain medications

    Start with small amounts to assess tolerance and not use too much at first (can cause digestive upset) Although it has a lot of benefits, it can be severely toxic and dangerous for pregnant women when taken in large quantities.

Online Sources:

  • Amazon Fresh - (£9.3/100 g - fresh leaves)

  • Ethnic grocery

  • Local food co-ops' online shops

Price Range:

  • prices vary based on location