The Moringa Tree (Moringa oleifera) is native to North India that’s been nicknamed “the miracle tree” and the “tree of life” for its superfood properties. Virtually every part of the tree is edible and packed with nutrients. According to nutrition researcher C. Gopalan’s and the author of Nutritive Value of Indian Foods, “A small serving of the humble-looking moringa’s tiny leaves has seven times the amount of vitamin C of an orange, four times the calcium of milk, and four times the beta-carotene of carrots.”
Not surprisingly, the tree which can grow in virtually all climates, especially in places where there’s malnutrition, is developing a cult following among natural foods enthusiasts. As a result, there are a wide variety of moringa supplements now available and even Dr. Oz jumped on the bandwagon calling it an “energy blaster” while others say it helps weight loss, too. Here are 8 more reasons why everyone is talking about moringa.
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1. Ultra Nutrient-Dense
According to the Daily Mail, moringa contains almost 25% protein including all nine of the essential amino acids. It provides 13 essential vitamins and minerals at RDA levels, including skin-supporting vitamins A, E, riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), phosphorus and zinc.
2. Breastfeeding Bonus
The moringa flower can improve the quality and amount of breastmilk so that its leaf tea is used specifically by midwives to increase breast milk production in lactating mother.
3. Water Purification
Its miracle tree nickname comes from the fact that thanks to its antimicrobial and coagulant properties, moringa seeds are used to purify water cheaply and effectively. It is used in third world countries to clean the water supply.
4. Fights Colds & Ailments
From fighting the common cold and infections to combatting anemia, gastric ulcers and diarrhea, moringa tea works wonders.
5. Moringa Paste is Anti-Inflammatory
If you should happen to come across a moringa oleifera tree out in nature, and happen to be injured or have an insect bite, make a paste out of its leaves; it serves as an anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory treatment for insect bites, wounds or fungal skin problems.
6. Reduces Body Aches & Pains
From the roots to the sap, every part of the moringa plant provides some relief for cramps, joint pain, rheumatism and arthritis.
7. Benefits Cancer Patients
The seeds, leaves, bark, and roots of the moringa tree contain compounds, like niaziminin, which have been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth.
8. Reduces Blood Pressure & Increases Libido
This superfood can also boost immunity, lower blood pressure, alleviate stress, fight fatigue, improve digestive health and increase libido. It’s also great for the hair, nails and skin.
