Nozaina Qayyum: A large tree native to North India, known by various names, including horseradish tree, ben oil tree, and drumstick tree. Almost all parts of the tree, including leaves, pods, and bark, are edible and have been used as a main ingredient in traditional herbal medicines for thousands of years. Moringa oleifera possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help manage cholesterol, glucose, and blood levels, while also boosting skin, liver, and heart health. Researchers found 90 bioactive plant compounds that help to protect against inflammation, fungi, cancer, and oxidative stress. Moringa oleifera is highly nutritious. Its leaves are an outstanding source of numerous minerals and vitamins. One cup (21 grams) of chopped fresh moringa leaves contains 13 calories and a substantial amount of iron, vitamin C, protein, vitamin B6, vitamin A, riboflavin, and Magnesium. Its dried leaves are sold in capsules or powder form in Western countries. Pods are lower in vitamins and minerals than leaves. However, they are high in vitamin C, as one cup (100g) of freshly chopped pods contains 157 % of our daily requirement. The diet of people in developing countries is deficient in vitamins, minerals, and protein. Moringa oleifera could be a great source of essential nutrients in those countries. Moringa leaves also contain high levels of antinutrients such as phytate and oxalate, which can decrease the absorption of minerals and protein. Moringa oleifera has several health benefits, from speeding up wound healing to managing blood glucose levels.
Treat an Upset Stomach
Moringa extract also helps to treat some stomach disorders:
The leaves help to prevent colon cancer.
Moringa leaves help to treat constipation.
It may prevent peptic ulcers by decreasing the secretion of stomach acid.
It may help prevent ulcerative colitis as its anti-inflammatory effects protect the digestive system from damage.
Lower Blood Sugar Levels
High blood sugar levels increase the possibility of various serious health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes. It’s important to manage blood sugar levels. The authors of a 2020 review of 23 animal studies and 7 human studies found that moringa helps to decrease blood sugar levels. These effects may be due to various plant compounds such as glucomoringin, kaempferol, quercetin, and isothiocyanate. More research is needed to support the role of moringa in diabetes management.
Decrease Inflammation
Inflammation is the natural response of the body to injury or infection. It is an essential protective mechanism of the body, but if it continues over a long period of time, it can lead to chronic health issues like cancer and heart disease. Most herbs, vegetables, spices, and whole fruits have anti-inflammatory properties. The degree to which they can help is based on the amounts and types of anti-inflammatory compounds they have. Numerous compounds in Moringa oleifera may possess anti-inflammatory properties, including flavonoids, vanillin, alkaloids, phenols, and carotenoids. A study that was performed in 2019 found that moringa leaves have the highest amount of anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds compared to the pods and seeds. Most research in humans is needed to understand the possible anti-inflammatory benefits of moringa.
Lower Cholesterol
According to the British Heart Foundation, high cholesterol may increase the possibility of stroke and heart disease. Research revealed that moringa may have antihyperlipidemic properties, which means it helps to lower triglyceride and cholesterol. Some studies found that moringa oleifera could lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and increase HDL (good) cholesterol. More research in humans is needed to fully understand the possible antihyperlipidemic benefits of moringa.
Nurture and Protect Hair and Skin
A laboratory study found that moringa heals skin wounds more quickly by reducing oxidative stress. Many experts suggested moringa seed oil may have benefits for hair health. However, further studies are needed.
Protect the Liver
Moringa helps to protect the liver against NAFLD (Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease). Researchers discover a compound that could be useful for this disease. One of these compounds decreases fat buildup in liver cells and enhances the activity of a protein that breaks down fat.
Protect against Arsenic Toxicity
In several parts of the world, arsenic contamination of water and food is a problem. Various kinds of rice may contain high levels. Long–term exposure to water and food with high levels of arsenic may cause health issues over time, like heart disease, cancer, and skin lesions. Animal studies revealed that moringa leaves may protect against the effects of arsenic toxicity. Further research is needed in humans.
Support Healthy Bones
Moringa oleifera is rich in essential nutrients that work together to promote bone health, such as magnesium, vitamin K, calcium, and phosphorus. These nutrients, combined with the antioxidants found in moringa, may help maintain resilient, strong bones and protect against bone-related issues like osteoporosis.
Promote Healthy Eyesight
Moringa oleifera is packed with vitamin A, which is a key nutrient for maintaining healthy vision. The antioxidants in moringa reduce oxidative stress, which can lead to age-related eye conditions like macular degeneration.
Help to Manage Weight
Moringa oleifera is low in calories but rich in protein and fiber. Its leaves and pods in meals are the best way to stay full for longer. Moringa helps in weight management and weight loss. Incorporating nutrient-rich greens in an eating plan may help decrease cravings, boost metabolism, and help to keep energy level in balance throughout the day.
Support Cognitive Function
Due to antioxidant properties, moringa oleifera may help support cognitive function and fight against cognitive decline, as well as conditions such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. Moringa is also helpful in supporting neurotransmitter balance, mood, and memory. According to animal studies, the leaf extract of moringa may be helpful for depression.
Treat and Prevent Cancer
Moringa possesses anticancer properties. It contains a compound called niazimicin that suppresses the development of cancer cells. According to some scientists, moringa bark, leaf extract, and other parts of the plant may possess properties that can kill cancer cells. More detailed research is needed to understand how it works at the cellular level.